6 Steps for Applying Moisturiser Correctly

How to use moisturiser correctly

Moisturising your skin is more important than you can probably realise. Applying the right type of moisturiser to your skin can prevent dryness, soothe sensitive skin and even protect against breakouts and acne.

But to get the best results, you need to use the right moisturising formula for your skin type.

For oily or acne-prone skin you should look for a light lotion or gel moisturiser which will most likely be oil-free. The hydrating ingredients are likely to give the skin hydration without the hassle of clogged pores. You may come across the term non-comedogenic which simply refers to a product which will not clog or block pores.

On the flip side, dry skin should be hydrated with rich creams and face oils which give an extra boost when it comes to keeping skin hydrated. If you have dry skin, you may find that your skin is not retaining its natural oils as well as it should.

And when it comes to sensitive skin, you will need to nourish delicate skin with gentle lotions that are free from fragrances or harsh preservatives.

If you are one of the lucky ones with combination skin, you may need a mix of products in your skincare routine which caters to the various skin types you may be experiencing. Applying a rich moisturiser to the areas with dehydrated skin whilst going for something lighter on any areas with oily skin, will keep your skin hydrated and won't clog pores at the same time.

The perfect skincare routine involves washing your skin twice daily (in the morning and evening). You should be rehydrating your skin with moisturiser twice a day. In the AM, opt for a lightweight moisturiser that will sink easily into the skin and work well under makeup and SPF.

Never skip the sun protection because it will prevent sun damage and the early signs of aging, so if your moisturiser doesn't have any, make sure to find a lightweight facial sunscreen to add to your routine. It is essential all year round but especially coming into the summer months.

As for your evening night creams, opt for a richer formula that is packed with restorative ingredients (such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin E and C, designed to support collagen production). These nourishing formulas will help your skin repair as you sleep, ensuring you wake up with plump, hydrated skin.

Still unsure as to which skin care products are right for your skin? Head to the Skin Quiz to complete the skin analysis and be matched with your perfect moisturiser. When you have found the perfect product, keep reading to find out how to apply moisturiser the right way.

Ingredients to consider

When choosing a face cream, there are a whole range of products formulated for different skin types. Whether you are trying to minimise fine lines, protect the skin barrier or improve your skin tone, it's important to choose ingredients that will help you achieve your skin goals.

Ingredients you may commonly see on your favourite moisturiser include:

• Salicylic Acid
• Glycolic Acid
• Lactic Acid
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Shea Butter

Some ingredients may be better suited to normal skin whilst others may be more beneficial for dry skin, not forgetting that acne-prone or oily skin may need stronger active ingredients designed to treat the skin issue at hand.

Your six-step guide to applying moisturiser like a pro

Now you've got the right moisturiser for your skin type, let's walk you through the best way to apply your moisturiser to support radiant skin.

Step one: use lukewarm water to cleanse your face

The order you apply your skincare products in, is just as important as the products you use. As we covered in our when to moisturise your skin guide, you need to start your skincare routine with cleansing.

Wash your face gently to remove any dead skin cells, dirt, sweat and impurities. This will prepare your clean skin for the products (like your moisturiser) that are coming next.

Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water to wash away the day. Then with a soft clean towel, pat your cleansed skin to remove excess water. But don't completely dry your skin, as slightly damp skin absorbs products better.

Step two: squeeze an almond-size amount of moisturiser into your palm

Using too much or too little moisturiser isn't going to do your skin any favours. As a general rule, the thicker the product, the less you need to use. On the flip side, thinner moisturisers can be applied more liberally to help your skin soak in the benefits.

Start with an almond-sized amount of the face moisturiser and apply this to the centre of your palm. Now, prepare the product by warming it up between your palm and fingers.

Step three: gently apply small amounts of moisturiser to your skin

Now, it's time to apply your moisturiser. The key to getting this step right is to start small (think a pea-sized amount) and dot the lotion onto your face evenly before you begin to blend it in.

Now, it’s time to apply your moisturiser. The key to getting this step right is to start small and dot the lotion onto your face evenly before you begin to blend it in.

When you spend a few minutes applying small dots across your entire face first, you'll avoid applying too much product to the wrong areas. Focus on key areas such as your nose, cheeks, forehead and chin and make sure to place some product on your neck and chest, too.

A common mistake that people make is grabbing the whole quarter-sized amount of their regular moisturiser and going for gold, missing crucial face zones and not allowing the product to absorb properly.

Step four: use gentle circular motions to blend the moisturiser into your cheeks first

Your cheeks are likely to be one of the driest parts of your face. So, give this part of your face some extra attention first. 

The best way to blend moisturiser into your skin is this: use gentle, circular strokes in an upwards direction. Keep your pressure light and be extra careful around delicate areas (such as your eyes) to avoid tugging or stressing the skin. 

Step five: spread the moisturiser to your forehead and the rest of your face

With your cheeks taken care of, it's time to blend in your moisturiser to the rest of your face.

Again, stick to gentle circular movements and spread the product across your forehead, nose, T-zone, as well as your neck and ears.

Step six: use gentle upwards strokes to blend your moisturiser into your neck and chest

Tugging and pulling downwards on your skin can damage your complexion over time.

This is especially important on your delicate neck area, so make sure to use gentle upward strokes and lift the skin. You don’t need to rub too hard either as your moisturiser and lotion will absorb into the skin on its own.

Why apply moisturiser upwards?

Think of applying skincare as a facial massage. You may have heard of the lymphatic system, but did you know that when you apply face cream using a lymphatic massage technique you will be promoting an overall glow? Not only will it improve circulation and help to deliver oxygen to your skin, but it will also assist in removing toxins and reducing inflammation and puffiness. It's a win-win for us.