Slapping OR Rubbing?
What are the best way to apply face products?
What are the best way to apply face products?
Refers to the daily practice of cleansing, treating and protecting the skin to maintain its health and appearance. It is more than just a beauty where our body's first line of defense are protected!
Our skin is constantly exposed to Sun, pollution, and bacteria.
A consistent skincare routine helps to repair damage, prevent premature aging as well as improving hydration and texture over time.
spreading skincare across face circularly or upward strokes, with palms or fingers.
❌ "The harder you rub the better the product absorbs."
➡️FACT❗Over-rubbing can irritate the skin and damage the barrier, especially in sensitive or acne-prone skin. Gentle pressure more effective and safer it is!
❌ "Rubbing helps 'push' products deep into the skin layers"
➡️FACT❗Product absorption is based on molecular size and formulation, never the pressure. Excessive rubbing won't force it deeper, EVER.
brisk, light smacking of the face using the palms, technique popularized in K-beauty routines
❌ "Slapping boost blood flow and gives instant glow"
➡️FACT❗It may do so temporarily, but overdoing it can lead to broken capillaries, irritation and even inflammation.
❌"Slapping tighthens the skin and makes it firmer"
➡️FACT❗No scientific evidence proves this, might as well just focus on skincare and lifestyle factors that matter more.
There's no one-size-fits-all in skincare. Try both techniques, listen to your skin and stick to what feels right.
After all your skin knows best!
REFERENCES
Jonas, L. (2024, September 23). What is skincare? And why is it so important? LABAREAU. https://labareau.com/blogs/blogs/what-is-skincare-and-why-is-it-important
Lab Muffin Beauty Science. (2022, November 16). Should you slap on your skincare? YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/I6Zi7U8nrJo
Patting vs Rubbing In Skincare: Does It Matter? (2025). Rejûvaskin. https://rejuvaskin.com/blogs/tips-tricks/patting-vs-rubbing-in-skincare-does-it-matter?srsltid=AfmBOoqCuxou_kjkdgtH5CZaWw2JEtKegqOlF8Nx7rQyRzd4Q4EnXlPs
Sharkey, L., & Hobbs, H. (2021, December 20). How to Apply Your Skin Care Products in the Right Order. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/order-of-skin-care