You’ve read all about the benefits of using facial serums and moisturizers, eye creams and weekly treatments. Once you purchase these products, you’re not sure exactly how to apply them, despite the label advising you when to use them (once or twice per day, for example). Do you apply moisturizer directly on the face?   Which goes first, a serum or eye cream? Here are some helpful tips to take out the guesswork.

When applying daily facial treatment products, such as eye creams, serums and moisturizers, always:

·    Use on cleansed, toned dry skin.

·    Clean hands thoroughly to avoid transferring oils and bacteria onto skin.

·    Use the fingertips and apply with a gentle, “typing” motion for several seconds. This will ensure that the product is being properly absorbed and won’t just “sit” on the skin. Avoid rubbing or applying too much pressure with the fingertips.

How to apply:

Eye Creams

Place 1-2 drops on the fingertips of one hand, rub both fingertips of both hands together to warm the product and gently “type” first under the eyes and next on eyelids. Don’t add more cream to the eyelids to avoid greasy, oily lids, which can smudge eye makeup.

Serums

Serums can be used either before or after eye cream, but always before moisturizers. As with the above instructions, apply 2-3 drops on the fingertips of one hand, rub both fingertips of both hands and gently “type” on the face and neck.

Moisturizers

Use 2-3 drops on fingertips, rub, and “type” on face and neck.

Sunscreens

The last step of the skincare routine. Apply 3-4 drops on fingertips, rub and use on face and neck.

For weekly treatments such as masks and exfoliators, remember that these are not cleansers and also need to be used after cleansing. For masks, use on dry skin and exfoliators on damp skin to avoid irritation and redness. Most labels for masks indicate usage as once per week for approximately 5-10 minutes, and for exfoliators, massage on clean, damp skin for one minute, then rinse. Most exfoliators suggest using 2-3 times per week, but will vary on each individual’s skin and tolerance. Follow each of these weekly treatments with a toner before applying eye creams, serums and moisturizers.

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