There’s a Right Way to Apply Moisturizer

We know you know how to apply a moisturizer. You do it two times a day (we hope!) But did you know there’s a “right” way to moisturize? Here’s our guide to getting the most out of your moisturizer.

Whether you have your moisturizing regimen down pat or you don’t even think about it, there is a science to hydration. We talked to our Chief Science Officer, Lindsay Wray, PhD, about how to get more mileage out of your moisturizer.

1. How much product you use matters.

In fact, the skincare industry has standards on how much moisturizer you should be using. We’ll take any chance to dig into the data – we are scientists, after all – so we asked Lindsay, our Chief Science Officer, to run the numbers for us.

The surface area of your face is about 500 square centimeters. The industry standard for creams is 2 milligrams of product per square centimeter. (This is the amount of cream used to test SPF levels.)

500 square centimeters x 2 milligrams of product is 1000 mg (or 1 gram). If we assume that a cream has a density of one gram per milliliter (which is a close approximation), this would mean you should apply or 1 milliliter of product to your face. This is where the “pea-sized amount” comes from (see below). “You might find that this is a lot, or maybe not enough! It’s really up to your personal preference,” Lindsay says.

2. Your face isn’t the only area you should be moisturizing.

That perfect pea-sized amount should be enough to cover your face, but that’s not the only area you should be moisturizing.

Our Head of Physician Sales, Janine Cheng, told us that in the United States, the “face” is considered to be the forehead to the chin. But in Europe, the “face” runs from the forehead down to the décolletage. These areas show signs of aging, too, and deserve to be moisturized.

At Eighteen B, we’re currently running trials to get data on how our b-silk™ protein formulations improve skin on the neck. We’re excited to share the results with you when they come in.

3. Pay attention to your skin. Your needs may change.

Your moisturizing regimen should be fluid, not set in stone. From climate to aging to major life events, there are many reasons your skincare needs may change. Lindsay says, “My recommendation is to always stay in tune with your skin. I use Revitalizing Hydrogel Moisturizer during the day and Hydrate + Restore Rich Cream at night because I have more oily skin. However, especially after having a baby, my skin is drier than ever.”

The trick? Keep a close eye on how your skin looks and feels. “If you get stuck in your routine, you might not be hydrating your skin enough,” Lindsay says.

4. Drinking water does not replace a good moisturizer.

Drink plenty of water, of course! But drinking water should not replace a moisturizer. “As with all things in biology, it’s never that simple,” Lindsay says.

“Drinking water is an inside-out approach. Your skin is your barrier to everything you encounter in life. It also warrants an outside-in approach.”

Our formulations do far more than hydrate the skin. B-silk™ protein, our proprietary key ingredient, forms a lightweight, breathable barrier that locks moisture in and keeps environmental factors at bay. When b-silk™ protein is applied, whether in our Revitalizing Hydrogel Moisturizer or our Hydrate + Restore Rich Cream, tiny silk molecules lock together to form an invisible film on the surface of your skin. This barrier allows your skin to perform its function while providing vital reinforcement. Water alone can’t do that. Read more about b-silk™ protein here.

5. Moisturizing should be fun.

Perhaps we’re biased, but we think moisturizing should be a fun and indulgent part of your daily routine. Take a little time for yourself. Create a routine to look forward to. That’s a sure way to get even more from your moisturizer.

Do you have questions? Comments? Topics you want us to cover? We’d love to hear from you. Email us at thelab@eighteenb.com.