Even though everyone’s face size is different, there are universal guidelines that help your products work effectively — without causing heaviness, greasiness, or unnecessary waste.
Using too little means the product won’t perform as intended, while using too much can lead to clogged pores, irritation, or product pilling.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you dose every step correctly.
1.Cleanser: the size of a hazelnut
For most gels, creams, and balm cleansers, the ideal amount is hazelnut-sized.
If the product is difficult to rinse off or leaves a film on the skin, you probably used too much.
Double cleansing:
If you wear SPF and makeup, double cleansing is helpful — but one hazelnut amount per step is enough, for both the first cleanse (oil/balm) and the second cleanse (gel/foam).
2. Moisturizer: the size of an almond
Your moisturizer should be applied in a portion about the size of an almond.
If it feels greasy, heavy, or doesn’t absorb well, you likely applied too much.
How to know you're using the right amount?
Skin should feel soft and hydrated, but not oily.
3. Serums: pea-sized or 4–6 drops
Serums are concentrated, so a pea-sized amount or 4–6 drops is usually sufficient.
- thicker serums → pea-sized
- watery serums → 4–6 drops
More than that won’t increase results — it will only sit on the skin.
4. SPF: the two-finger rule
For proper sun protection, apply a generous amount equivalent to two full fingers.
SPF must always be applied liberally.
In summer: reapply every 2–3 hours.
In winter: if you're using richer protective creams, applying about an almond-sized amount may be enough, since SPF isn’t the only protective layer.
5. Retinal & Retinol: three peas
For retinal and retinol, less is more.
Use approximately three peas for the entire face.
Using more can lead to redness, peeling, and irritation.
6. Tretinoin: one to one and a half peas
Tretinoin is stronger than retinol, so use only one to one and a half peas.
Tip:
Apply it on completely dry skin and keep it away from the eye area unless advised otherwise by your dermatologist.
7. Eye cream: one grain to one and a half grains of rice — per eye
The eye area is delicate, so you only need one grain to one and a half grains of rice per eye.
Tap gently with your ring finger — no rubbing or pulling.
8. Face oils: 2 to 3 drops
Face oils are meant to seal in moisture, so 2–3 drops are enough.
If your skin stays shiny or greasy for a long time, you’ve used too much — an oil should create a subtle glow, not a slippery layer.
Why does the right amount matter?
- prevents product waste
- reduces risk of irritation
- prevents clogged pores
- ensures better absorption
- makeup sits better on the skin
How to know if you're using the right amount?
Your skin should feel hydrated and comfortable.
Products should absorb within 1–2 minutes without leaving a greasy, sticky, or heavy finish.
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