THE ANNOYING PHENOMENON OF SKINCARE PILLING—AND HOW TO PREVENT IT
Published May 10, 2024
We’ve all been there—spending time and effort to perfect our skincare routine only to have it sabotaged by the annoying phenomenon of skincare pilling. Those frustrating little pills that form on your skin when products don’t absorb properly can feel like a big setback. But don’t despair! Understanding why skincare pilling happens is the first step toward preventing it, ensuring your skin remains as flawless and cared for as you intended.
WHY DOES SKINCARE PILLING HAPPEN?
Skincare pilling occurs when products are layered on top of each other without proper absorption, leading to the formation of tiny granules. This can be due to several reasons, from applying too much product to the compatibility of the ingredients across different products. The good news is that with a few adjustments, this common skincare mishap can easily be prevented.
TOP TIPS TO PREVENT SKINCARE PILLING
1. START WITH A CLEAN SLATE
Each skincare session should start with thoroughly cleansed skin. Oil, dirt, and residue from previously applied products can hinder absorption, increasing the likelihood of pilling.
2. EXFOLIATE REGULARLY
Dead skin cells can also contribute to pilling. Depending on your skin type, exfoliating once a week (for normal to dry skin) to thrice a week (for oily to combination skin) can help prevent product buildup and ensure smoother application.
3. CHOOSE COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCTS
Not all skincare products play well together. Some ingredients can react with each other, leading to pilling. Ensure your skincare products have compatible bases (water, oil, silicone) and if pilling persists, consider switching products to find a better match.
One of the advantages of using FILORGA products is that all of our products are complementary. You can mix and match products from across our collections for a personalized skincare routine tailored to meet your needs.
4. GENTLY APPLY THE RIGHT AMOUNT AT THE RIGHT TIME
More isn’t always better. Applying thick layers of skin care products doesn’t guarantee better results and often leads to pilling. Use just enough product to cover your face lightly and evenly.
Avoid rubbing skincare products too vigorously into your skin. Excessive rubbing can not only cause pilling but irritate your skin. Instead, gently pat them into the skin. For makeup application, use a beauty blender. This technique can help press the product in without creating friction that leads to pilling.
And don't forget to apply your products in the right order—from lightest to heaviest.
5. TAKE YOUR TIME BETWEEN LAYERS
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to skincare. Applying your next product before the previous one has had time to fully absorb sets the stage for pilling. Give each layer some time to dry; this could mean waiting from 30 seconds to a minute between applications.
FINAL THOUGHTS
While encountering skincare pilling is a common experience, it’s one that can be mitigated with the right knowledge and approach. By following the prevention tips outlined above, you can enjoy a smoother, more effective skincare routine free from those pesky pills. After all, your skincare ritual should be a source of relaxation and pampering—not frustration. Remember, learning to layer like a pro takes time, so be patient with yourself and your skin.