I picked up this tip quite by chance and I’m sure everyone already knows about it but I’m going to repeat it anyway 🙂
Did you know or realise that applying your skincare on damp skin increases their absorption into your skin? I thought about this one day when I was applying my body oils. You are always advised to apply body lotions and oils on damp skin so it is always recommended that you do so right after showering when your skin has still got a thin layer of water on it.
So, I thought if this was the case for your body, what about your face? I personally haven’t come across many people that suggest this same tip for the face. So I gave it a go and am very happy with the result! I hope you’ll be too, if you try it 🙂
The concept is quite simple. If you imagine your skin as a sponge, it is easier to grasp the concept.
A dry sponge does not absorb much liquid. Its surprising, but its true. Try it and see if you don’t believe me 🙂 However, a damp (not wet) sponge will absorb and retain liquids better. So applying this concept to your skin, dry skin will absorb skincare, but it takes longer while damp skin will absorb much more quickly. If you use face oils or heavier creams, you will notice the benefit more obviously.
Damp skin however does not mean wet. So, its not like you splash water on your face, and while sopping wet, slap on skincare. Damp skin would mean skin that is still moist but not fully dry.
If you’re anything like me, this is almost impossible for me to achieve because I do not keep my skincare in the bathroom. After washing my face, I usually pat dry with a towel, then head to my dresser to apply my skincare. So how do I achieve this damp skin effect?
With face mists! 😀 I used to use thermal water mists but these days, I use the Melvita Floral Water because it smells better 🙂 I just spritz the fine mist over my skin, pat it lightly and then apply my serums and face creams. When I use a face oil, my skin seems to soak it up like a sponge! No oily feel, and my skin feels lovely and moist thereafter. Its also quicker so there’s time saved right there 🙂
When I use a lotion (toner) I use it over the face mist too. I keep the whole toning and misting concept separate because to me they perform different functions. I do find that lotions (moisturising toners not clarifying ones) absorb more quickly and I personally believe the products work better this way too and deliver better benefits to my skin.
You can read more about facial mists – how to use them and the various ones I’ve used over the years. Also, if you use a hydration serum or a hyaluronic acid serum or hyaluronic acid based serum, here is a technique you must consider which is related to damp skin. When applying products to skin, you must try this which is likely the best technique to apply skincare products.
Finally, if you suffer from dehydrated skin, then you must consider trying the moisture sandwich method for applying skincare. I promise you, it is a game-changer! 😀
I’d love to know if you are also practising apply skincare on damp skin? If you haven’t tried this, would you? Do report back if you do try it – would love to know if it works as well for you 🙂
Paris B
Firn says
My dermatologist recommended putting on skincare right after I bathe. I find that doing this while my bathroom’s all steamed up a muggy, all the rich creams tend to apply better (like Laneige’s Sleeping Pack). Plus I find that my foundation and sunscreen blend and sink in much better and after I step out of the bathroom they just set and don’t budge from most of my face even without powder. I wear a mask on my face at work so any transfer would be noticeable! I can’t abide the caked on foundation look…
Stephanie says
I find that you also use less of the product you put on after spritzing, so it lasts longer, so you’re actually saving money as well. Excellent tip.
Bo says
Sounds like a really silly question but what is damp skin? How will I know my skin is damp? Is just after putting a towel to my face?
Paris B says
Damp skin is skin with some moisture on it. So, if you’ve just washed your face and are continuing with your skincare, just lightly dab away excess water but leave your skin damp. More easily, use a facial mist. Spray some on your skin and that will give you damp enough skin to continue with your skincare. You might also want to read about the moisture sandwich technique, if this interests you 🙂