How to Properly Apply Face Serum for Maximum Benefits

Face serums have become a popular skincare product in recent years, promising numerous benefits like reducing fine lines, evening out skin tone, and boosting hydration. With all the hype around serums, it's easy to get carried away and use too much. But applying face serum correctly is vital to getting the most out of it (plus, you'll save money since you won't use up the bottle as quickly).

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Here's a simple guide on how much serum to use and how to apply it properly:

Why Dropping Serum Directly on Your Face Isn't Ideal

It's tempting to use the dropper that comes with most serums and dot the product directly onto your face. As a matter of fact, almost every YouTuber I watch loves to do it this way (and I cringe each time I see it). However, this isn't the best application method for a few reasons:

• Wastes product: Dropping serum directly from the bottle means you often use more than necessary. Most serums are concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
• Can be messy: Dotting serum around your face can result in drips, uneven coverage, and wasted product.

So what's the right way to apply face serum? Follow these simple tips:

How Much Serum You Actually Need

A good rule of thumb is to use about a pea-sized amount of serum for your entire face. That may not seem like much, but serums are highly concentrated formulas. Any more than a pea size will likely be excess product.

Start with a pea-sized amount first. You can adjust the amount later if needed. But always start small - more is rarely better with serums!

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The Best Way to Apply Serum for Maximum Benefits

Here are the proper steps to get the most out of your face serum:

1. Cleanse your face thoroughly and pat dry. Serums absorb best on clean skin.
   
   
2. Apply the serum to the palm of your hand first (use a pea-sized amount), and then use your fingertips to dab it all around your face.
   
   
• Alternatively, apply a drop directly to your finger and apply it to your face—the rule of thumb is to divide your face into quadrants and apply one drop per quadrant).
  
  
3. Gently pat the serum all over your face, concentrating on the forehead, cheeks, and chin. Avoid vigorous rubbing - patting and gentle application allows for better absorption.
   
   
4. Apply serum to your neck and décolletage. These areas also show signs of aging, so treat them too. Use any remaining product on your fingers.
   
   
5. Let the serum fully absorb for a minute or two before applying additional products.
   
   
6. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen if using serum in the AM. Serums work best when layered under moisturizer.

This technique ensures you use the optimal amount of serum for your face. Patting instead of rubbing helps the serum penetrate deeply into the skin. Avoid applying too much - remember that more serum doesn't equal better results.

Tips for Getting the Most from Your Face Serum

• Use serums at night so they can work while you sleep. Nighttime is when the skin repairs itself most actively.
  
  
• Apply to clean, dry skin for maximum absorption. Don't use it on damp skin.
  
  
• Let serum fully absorb before layering other products on top.
  
  
• Use within the recommended time frame after opening for best potency. Discard serum after it expires.
  
  
• Store serum properly in a cool, dark place. Heat and light degrade serum ingredients.
  
  
• Don't mix serums together unless recommended. Layer them instead, waiting 1-2 minutes between each.
  
  
• Introduce serums slowly if new to the ingredient. Watch for any irritation.
  
  
• Use a pea-sized amount for the face, and half a pea-size or less for the neck/chest. A little serum goes a long way!

Source: Pexels

The Takeaway

Face serums can provide great skin nourishing benefits, but only when used properly. Resist squeezing out too much serum - a pea-sized amount is perfect for the entire face. Always apply serum to your fingers first and pat gently onto clean skin. Allow serums to fully absorb before layering additional products. Follow these tips and your serum will deliver maximum results!