How to Apply Skin Lotion for Maximum Benefits: Expert Tips

How to Apply Skin Lotion for Maximum Benefits: Expert Tips

Lotions are some of the most resourceful skincare products. They can hydrate your skin by replenishing lost moisture, giving it a soft and supple texture.

Lotions can also remove unsightly blemishes, such as calluses, from the skin. The products are rich in compounds that smoothen rough spots, restoring your skin’s texture and radiance.

Some lotions are also formulated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant ingredients. These products are particularly suitable for acne-prone skin and may also address other common dermatological conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

You’ll also love lotions for their pleasant fragrances. These skincare products are enriched with aromatic compounds that can soothe your mind and create a magnetic aura around you.

However, proper application is critical to unlock the benefits of skin lotions. And that’s precisely what this article shall focus on.

Read on for a guide to proper lotion application for optimal skincare benefits.

Introducing Skin Lotion

The term “lotion” is often used interchangeably with “cream” and “ointment.” However, while all three are useful skincare products, they differ considerably in texture and formulation.

Ointments are 80% oil and 20% water, whereas creams are 50% oil and 50% water.

Like creams, lotions generally contain an equal percentage of oil and water. The difference is that they’re lighter and feel more comfortable on the skin.

Lotion P50 is a classic example of a powerful skin lotion. The product is manufactured by renowned cosmetic brand - Biologique Recherche.

Like most Biologique Recherche products, Lotion P50 is plant-based. Its formula contains useful ingredients that hydrate, moisturize, and rejuvenate the skin.

Starting With the Right Product

It doesn’t matter how carefully you apply a lotion. You won’t achieve meaningful skincare benefits without investing in the right product.

That begs the question - what constitutes a suitable skincare lotion?

For starters, the product must be from a reputable brand. Sample online reviews to learn more about a skincare company before ordering lotions.

More importantly, research the ingredients in a lotion and establish how each compound might impact your skin. Below are the chief ingredients that a skin lotion should contain;

1. Ceramides

Ceramides are natural lipid molecules found in skin cell membranes and are responsible for preventing moisture loss. Insist on lotions that boost skin ceramides.

Studies have shown that ceramide creams can enhance hydration by decreasing transepidermal epidermal water loss (TEWL).

2. Glycerin

Glycerin works synergistically with ceramides to lock moisture in your skin.

Using a lotion containing glycerin ensures your skin isn’t stripped of its natural moisture when exposed to other harsh compounds.

3. Hyaluronic Acid

Lotions containing hyaluronic acid are generally recommended for oily and acne-prone skin. Hyaluronic acid can also stimulate collagen and elastin production, adding depth and texture to your skin.

4. Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid helps your skin shed dead cells, making it effective against breakouts. Multiple findings have shown that the compound might reduce skin lipid content and soothe inflammation.

5. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is one of the most common antioxidants found in skin lotions. The compound maintains the skin’s health by preventing free radicals from accumulating around skin cells.

Using lotions enriched with vitamin E can minimize the risks of chronic skin conditions.

Vitamin E also contains anti-aging properties. That’s due to its ability to smoothen wrinkles and fine lines.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Skin Lotion

1. Take a shower

Body lotions are most effective after showering and pat-drying the skin. That’s because the skin is most moisture-thirsty then. If you cannot grab a quick shower, dampen your skin before applying the lotion.

2. Measure the right amount of lotion

Today, many lotions come in innovative bottle lids that let you dispense the desired amount of the product. Experts recommend starting with a coin-sized dollop.

Add the blob to your palm and apply it to the desired area of the skin from the bottom up. Use your hand to massage the lotion across the body in a circular motion.

NB: Use separate lotions depending on the intended areas of application. A body lotion is designed for the entire body, while a face lotion is formulated for the face.

Unless otherwise indicated, do not use body lotion around the face. These products may contain harsh ingredients that could cause severe irritation if they come in contact with delicate facial features, such as the eyes, nostrils, and mouth.

3. Distribute evenly

Distribute body lotion to every part of your skin, paying particular attention to the face. This allows you to achieve uniformity by eliminating patches of moistness and dryness. It also ensures all areas of the skin benefit from the product.

4. Wipe off excess lotion

Use a clean, damp towel to gently wipe any excess lotion off your skin. Applying body lotion in excess can interfere with your skin’s moisture content.

5. Pick timings wisely

Lotions can be included in your morning and evening skincare routine. Depending on the desired effects, you could even apply the products at intervals during the day. The ideal timings largely depend on the primary ingredients in the lotion. Lotions that are richer in moisturizers are best applied in the morning. Meanwhile, those formulated with soothing and antioxidant compounds would be excellent for nighttime use.

Wrap Up

The above-mentioned tips apply to most skin lotions. However, each cosmetic product is unique. The conventional wisdom is to follow the manufacturer’s user guidelines to maximize on your lotion’s skincare benefits.