Anyone who has just jumped into the skincare world would probably feel overwhelmed and confused about how to incorporate all the products into their skincare routine. The struggle doesn’t end there, since we not only have to figure out the steps, but also the amount of products that are appropriate for each product! Some products don’t clearly label how much product you should apply on your skin. Instead, it is often just written as “apply,” “use an appropriate amount,” “slather,” etc, which isn’t very specific.
Although there is no actual rule for how much skincare product you should be using, Picky Expert Claudia (@funskincare on Instagram) has created a general guideline on how much skincare product is appropriate to optimize each product’s function!
Let’s go through some general tips:
Always read the product label.
Although some products don’t specifically mention the amount suggested for each use, usually products with highly potent ingredients like a serum (active ingredients like AHA, BHA, retinol) often mention a specific amount. It’s important to use a product according to the suggested amount, because it will ultimately help to maximize the benefit.
Do whatever makes you feel comfortable!
This is the most important part of all! Skincare is supposed to be fun and enjoyable. Therefore, do whatever makes your skin comfortable. You can even create your own rules because you know your skin more than anyone else. Your skin, your rules!
We know that it takes time to understand your skin and to know how much is good enough for your skin. If you are new in the skincare game, here are a few tips to help you start.
1. Cleanser:
There are numerous types of face washes with different textures. In general, you only need around a dime-sized amount of product to create a thin layer of the cleanser that can cover your whole face. Make sure that you apply enough product, don’t tug your skin while washing, and that it lathers well for the cleanser to do its job.
2. Toner/Essence:
You can apply just a few drops of your toner either on a cotton pad until it is fully drenched in toner, or you can apply some into your palm to create a pool of product. When applying toner with your palms, pat it directly to your skin. Most toners are intended to hydrate your skin, so you can also layer them and repeat this step depending on your skin’s needs.
3. Serum:
Serums can also come in multiple textures, and it depends a lot on the consistency of your products. In general, just a pearl-sized amount of your serum is enough to apply on your whole face. This is especially important when you are applying retinol (or prescription-strength retinoid) products since you don’t want to go overboard with it. Too much of it can sensitize and irritate your skin, and can outweigh its benefit for your skin.
4. Moisturizer:
Moisturizers are intended to lock in all the moisture and repair your skin barrier. Usually, a quarter-sized amount of moisturizer is needed to properly cover your entire face and provide enough occlusion to prevent water loss from your skin. However, you can alter the amount based on your skin’s need. When it is cold and dry outside, don’t hesitate to apply a thicker amount. When it’s hot and humid, applying a little less than a quarter-sized can be a better idea!
5. Eye cream:
You just need a little less than a pea-sized amount for your eye cream. Simply dab those pea-sized amounts of product to your eye areas and tap it gently with your ring finger. Remember that the skin around your eye area is very delicate, so you have to be extra gentle with it!
6. Sunscreen:
To get the most amount of protection from sunscreen, apply around a ½ teaspoon for your face and neck only. Some people usually like to use the two-finger length technique to quantify this amount. However, it greatly depends on the size of your face, so you just have to be sure that you have completely covered all the areas that are highly exposed to the sun, which is around 2mg/cm2 area. Applying more than you need with sunscreen is always better!
Figured out how much skincare product to use and ready to find your next Holy Grails? Download Picky on App Store and check out more products with the exact ingredients you want for specific skin concerns. Don’t forget to also follow us on Instagram and see more on our blog for more skincare science content!
