Are you using too much or too little?
One of the most common mistakes people make is using too much of a skincare product. Applying an excessive amount of skincare may lead to product wastage, skin irritation, or clogged pores. On the contrary, applying an insufficient amount of skincare may compromise the efficacy of the product. In essence, both scenarios can be pitfalls and should be avoided if you want to reap the full benefits of your skincare routine.
Technically, there’s no precise amount of skincare that one must apply because we all have different skin types and face sizes. Skincare serving sizes may also vary depending on the formulations. Therefore, there’s no need to measure it down to the gram, but there are still general guidelines you can follow.
Continue scrolling if you’d like to discover the winning amounts for each skincare category.
Cleanser
If you use too little:
Not using enough cleanser leaves dirt, debris, and makeup on the skin, which can cause clogged pores and lead to breakouts.
If you use too much:
Overusing cleansers for oily, acne-prone skin can leave your skin dry and irritated. It also depletes your cleansers a lot faster, with no extra benefits.
The amount of cleanser to use will vary depending on the formulation and how much makeup you wear. However, if you’re using a foaming or lotion cleanser, a rule of thumb is to use a but more than an amount equivalent to a 10-cent SGD coin in your palm, and then massage it into your skin.
If you’re using ést.lab’s ActivCalm Gentle Hydrating Cleansing Mousse With Deep Cleansing Head Brush or ActivCalm Gentle Hydrating Cleansing Mousse, 2-3 pumps are more than enough for the entire face and neck.
For a foolproof method, ést.lab’s LumiGlow Enzyme Cleansing Pods is an impeccable option. One single pod is perfect for the face and neck, plus it can even be used to remove light makeup, saving you the hassle of using another makeup remover.
Physical Exfoliator
If you use too little:
You might not be exfoliating your skin adequately, resulting in the buildup of dead skin cells which will hinder product absorption.
If you use too much:
Your skin may become dry, irritated, red, and sore.
For physical exfoliators with granular substances like scrubs or enzymes powder, all you need is an amount equivalent to a 10-cent to 20-cent SGD coin.
If you’re using ést.lab’s LumiWhite Exfoliating Scrub, use it on slightly damped skin and massage in circular motions with gentle pressure. Take your time to slowly work your way in for about 1 minute before washing off. Don’t forget your neck too!
Essence/ Serum
If you use too little:
If you use too little serum, you will not attain the intended benefits.
If you use too much:
Using too much of any product leaves active ingredients sitting on your skin. When it comes to exfoliating serums, using an excessive amount can potentially result in a stinging or peeling sensation.
Given that essences and serums are already very concentrated, all you need is a pea-sized amount.
Do keep in mind that a little goes a long way. One full pump of ést.lab’s ActivCalm Skin Calming Lotion Essence, is enough for the entire face and neck (pro tip: don’t apply using a cotton pad as it will absorb the lotion essence and result in product wastage).
All of our serums come with a dropper, allowing you to dispense 3 – 4 drops directly onto your skin without any wastage.
The only exception is ést.lab’s VitaLift A+ Intensive Youth Capsules which comes in mono-dosage packaging so you don’t have to worry about the optimal amount of product to use each time. Single-use packaging also ensures hygiene and preservation of the freshness of the product!
Eye Cream/ Essence
If you use too little:
It might not be effective in reducing eye bags and dark circles, or providing adequate hydration to the eye area.
If you use too much:
Overtime, your eyes may develop milia seeds, which are tiny bumps filled with dead skin cells and excess sebum.
Less is more when it comes to the eye area. The eye area has a small surface, so you don’t require a large amount. A small dab, slightly smaller than the size of a pea, is typically sufficient, and you can split this between both eyes.
If you’re using ést.lab’s OptimaLift A+ Multi-Repair Eye Essence or OptimaLift A+ Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream, generally 1 pump is enough for both eyes. Be mindful that the skin around the eye area is very delicate, so please be gentle and do not rub the skin vigorously.
You may also try ést.lab’s OptimaLift A+ Eye Repair Capsules, which comes in mono-dosage packaging that’s precisely calibrated for the eye contour as an intensive eye treatment.
Moisturiser
If you use too little:
Your skin may feel tight, appear dull, and even flake because it’s not as hydrated as it could be.
If you use too much:
Over-applying moisturiser can cause your skin to appear shiny and may lead to breakouts. The thick layer of cream can also feel heavy on your skin and make it harder to put on makeup.
For lotions and creams, applying a slightly smaller amount than a 20-cent SGD coin should suffice for your face only. If you want to include your neck and extend it down to your décolleté, you should use an amount equivalent to a 1-dollar SGD coin.
ést.lab’s moisturisers all come in an airless bottle pump packaging which helps to prevent oxidation and contamination, and 2-3 pumps will be sufficient for the face and neck.
Sunscreen
If you use too little:
Insufficient application of sunscreen can leave you vulnerable to sunburn. Over time, this can contribute to sun-damaged skin that ages prematurely and increases the potential risk of developing skin cancer.
If you use too much:
Some formulas may leave a white cast or cause clogged pores if you apply too much. In addition, overloading on sunscreen may make your skin feel uncomfortably heavy.
Sunscreen is one of the most essential steps in any skincare routine, and applying the right amount will ensure adequate coverage and protection against UV rays. Typically, a tablespoon’s worth or 2 full finger lengths is enough for your entire face and neck.
ést.lab’s SunShield SPF 50*** and SunShield Aqua SPF 50*** are both tinted so you do not need to worry about looking as white as a sheet. Always remember to reapply your sunscreen after 2-3 hours, especially when you’re out in the sun.
There you have it! You may be using skincare products with some of the best formulas, but if you are using the wrong (L) amount, they’re just gonna go to waste. Now that you know the optimal (W) skincare serving sizes, you can ensure you’re getting more bang for your buck!
In good hands,
Estetica
