4 Ways to Apply Moisturizer Better

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This article was written by Aly Walansky and repurposed with permission from Daily Makeover.

Putting on moisturizers and lotions seems pretty straightforward, right? Well, the truth is that it takes a lot more effort than lathering up every part of your body—properly moisturizing can make a huge difference for soft, supple skin. Here's how to make sure you're getting the most out of your hydrating skin routine.

Apply an Even Coat

When you start from the middle of your face and push outward, more moisturizer settles along the perimeter, which can cause clogged pores around the hair line and close to your ears, says celebrity esthetician Renée Rouleau. "Hair products can cause this, but I also find that often it's caused by the way people apply moisturizer," she says.

Know How to Use Moisturizer with SPF

Most people will apply this double-duty lotion mainly to their face, then bring the leftovers down over the neck—and that's a mistake. Apply one nickel-sized amount to the entire face, then apply a quarter-sized amount to the neck, sides of the neck, and any exposed chest, says Rouleau. The neck is an extension of the face and needs attention too, especially if you want to avoid sun damage (like wrinkles). Just make sure you're applying enough of the stuff to protect your skin.

Moisturize Immediately After Showering

If you leave skin bare for more than a minute, it'll start to dehydrate because the dry air leeches moisture from skin. Applying moisturizer right after you step out of the shower will leave your skin protected and prevent the tight, dry feeling, says Rouleau.

Find a Moisturizer for Your Skin Type

Attempting to moisturize your face with the lotion you use on your body can lead to irritation and breakouts, says dermatologist Adebola Dele-Michael, M.D. The oil-based lotion you use to keep your knees and elbows smooth tends to clog pores on delicate facial skin and cause acne. Remember that the skin on your face is more delicate than the rest of your body—this is particularly true of hands and feet, which are much more resilient than most other areas. As for formulas, people with normal skin should use a light moisturizer that contains natural oils, whereas people with dry skin may require heavier lotions that can lock in moisture.