Hard truths NEEDED …
Wait, what do you mean? With so many beauty opinions floating around, it’s tough to know what the actual rules are for applying skincare.
Instead of blindly following all the beauty blunders, let’s dive into what science says and bust some skincare faux pas that might raise a few eyebrows.
X Mix all your serums together
We get it – choosing just one serum can feel like picking a favourite child, especially when you’re a bit too enthusiastic about your skincare routine.
But mixing all your serums into a self-made potion might do more harm than good. Even if they’re from the same brand, we can’t be sure how they’ll interact. You might end up with products that curdle – or worse, ingredients that neutralise each other, reducing their effectiveness and leaving your skin irritated. Talk about a skincare cocktail gone wrong!
Y Apply each serum separately
Layering serums is totally fine, but compatibility is key. Think of them like your skincare BFFs – they’re great on their own, but they need to get along.
Apply each serum separately, making sure one is fully absorbed before moving on to the next. If you’re layering, our advice is to stick to two serums. Start with the thinnest and move to the thickest. If they’re the same consistency, prioritise based on your main concern. But chemical exfoliators should always be first in line. For example, if you’re layering ést.lab’s LumiWhite 10% PHA Resurfacing Glow Serum with the ActivCalm Skin Quenching Serum, the PHA serum should be applied first.
And remember, some ingredients just don’t play well together – retinol and vitamin C, we’re looking at you. So, always do your homework before you start layering like a pro.
X Use the palm of your hands to apply
Sound familiar?
The idea of “warming” your skincare by rubbing it between your palms supposedly enhances effectiveness. In reality, though, it can lead to waste. A copious amount could end up absorbed into your palms instead of your face. It’s like feeding your hands a luxury meal they don’t really need.
The only exception? During a facial or neck massage, when you need to coat your palms for smooth application to prevent skin tugging. Otherwise, your fingers are your best bet.
Y Use your fingertips
Your fingertips are your best tools! Plus, they don’t require batteries.
Using them to gently pat and press products into your skin is super effective. This technique helps to open up your skin microscopically, allowing it to soak up the product like a sponge.
Making small circles with your fingertips while applying moisturisers can also boost blood circulation and absorption, with no palm-wasting required.
X Create your own concoction
Sure, being your own skincare alchemist sounds cool – until it doesn’t.
Thanks to TikTok, some beauty creators are hitting the algorithm jackpot by blending their own skincare products. But mixing toners, essences, serums, moisturisers, or even sunscreens together to save time in the morning? That might not be the best idea.
These tips often come from beauty creators, not skincare experts. Mixing products without knowing how they interact can lead to breakouts, sensitivity, or irritation. It’s best to leave the science to the pros and not turn your bathroom into a lab experiment.
Y Use each product separately
Each product in your routine has its own role to play – cleanser cleanses, serum treats, moisturiser moisturises, and sunscreen protects.
Mixing them can mess with their stability and effectiveness. For example, combining sunscreen with moisturiser might dilute the sunscreen UV filters, making it less stable and effective. So, play it safe and use each product as intended. No shortcuts here!
X Skip moisturiser for oily and acne-prone skin
If you’ve heard that using a hydrating serum alone is enough, think again.
It’s important to distinguish between hydration and moisturisation – they’re not the same thing. Hydration adds water content to the skin, while moisturisation ensures that this water is locked in. Skipping moisturiser can backfire, leading to increased oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture by producing more sebum.
In short, you need both hydration and moisturisation, even for oily and acne-prone skin.
Y Use a lightweight moisturiser even with oily skin
Serum and moisturiser are your skin’s power couple – like peanut butter and jelly, but for your face.
Layering them can greatly benefit your skin’s health and help it reach its optimal condition. For oily skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser like ést.lab’s PurClear Multi-Biotic Balancing Cream.
It has a gel-like, water-based texture and while it’s not completely oil-free, it’s formulated with tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial properties to combat acne-causing bacteria. Plus, it’s packed with a 2% blend of pre- and postbiotics to support good bacteria and keep the bad ones at bay.
X Apply sunscreen sparingly
Most people don’t realise they’re not using enough sunscreen – until it’s too late.
There is often a misconception that sunscreen should be used sparingly and spread very thinly for daily commuting. But UV radiation can still penetrate windows indoors, accelerating skin ageing without you even knowing it. Regardless of your skin type, using too little sunscreen makes your protection ineffective and uneven.
Additionally, sunscreen wears off throughout the day, and reapplication is recommended every 2-4 hours. If you’re not reapplying or using enough to begin with, you might as well be wearing a hat made of tissue paper.
Y Apply a nickel-sized dollop of sunscreen
Using the right amount of sunscreen is almost as important as taking the correct dose of medication prescribed by your doctor.
You need a nickel-sized amount or a two-finger length of sunscreen to protect your entire face and neck sufficiently. For those prone to clogged pores, it’s best to choose one that is labelled as non-comedogenic. If your current sunscreen is clogging your pores, it might be time to try something new.
ést.lab’s non-sticky SunShield Aqua SPF 50*** is an excellent choice for even the most oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin, offering broad-spectrum UV protection and anti-blue light defence.
Remember: Great skin is 70% the product and 30% how you apply it. Make sure you’re using the right skincare products and applying them correctly to make the most of your skin-vestment!
In good hands,
Estetica
