How to Apply a Wrinkle Filler Properly
You may be surprised to find out that there is a right and wrong way to apply a wrinkle filler. Who knew that the way you put the product on your skin can make a big difference to the results you get.
As with many anti aging products – careless application can mean either no results at all – or even worse – a bad skin reaction that results in inflammation, skin redness and, over the longer term, premature skin aging. Presumably results that are just the opposite of what you intended when you bought the product in the first place!
First off for those who are still in the dark about wrinkle fillers and may be having visions of doctors in white coats and facial injections – we are talking topical wrinkle fillers here.
Instead of delivering hyaluronic acid into your face through an injection – a topical filler is a cream that contains material (usually silicone) which expands on contact with your skin to fill out your lines from the inside. No skin piercing is involved since it is all applied to the surface of the skin around the area where your wrinkles are worse.
If that sounds like a good idea to you – well in theory it is. Provided you have realistic expectations of what a cosmetic wrinkle filler can do and you apply it properly then results can be good. So what are the five golden rules for applying topical filler:
1. Follow the manufacturers instructions to the letter. Most products come with directions about the process to follow – especially how to apply the wrinkle filler in combination with any other skin care products you are using like face moisturizer or anti aging serum. Most brands recommend that you apply the filler after you finish moisturizing and before makeup.
2. Make sure you thoroughly cleanse your skin before applying the filler. Now is not the time to cut corners – especially on cleansing. You want to make sure that your face is completely free of dirt and debris that might combine with filler particles and cause break outs or irritation. Follow your normal cleansing routine and check there is no grease or dirt on a cotton pad moistened with toner. If you find any at all repeat the cleansing step until your face is totally clean. When satisfied follow with your toner and moisturize.
3. After you have finished moisturizing (including face serum and eye cream if you use them) let your face rest for five minutes or so to absorb the products you have just used. Only start applying the wrinkle filler after your skin is rested and all product traces absorbed.
4. Apply the filler as directed on the packaging. Some brands come with an applicator or recommend using the pointed end of the product container to direct the filler precisely into your wrinkles. However you apply your filler keep your touch light – patting in gently with fingertips. Avoid over application especially when you first use the product.
5. Wait several minutes to allow the filler to ‘set’ before applying your makeup. You may find it changes slightly – sinking in more or drying on your skin. This waiting step is crucial – if you fail to give it enough time the filler will lie on the surface and fight with your makeup. If possible it is better to buy a filler that is likely to work with your makeup – the same brand would be ideal to avoid conflicts.
You may think all this is too much trouble – especially in the morning – in which case it could be that a wrinkle filler is not the right anti aging product for you. If you do want to give it a go – follow these rules carefully and you are likely to get much better results from your wrinkle filler – cut corners and you risk skin irritation and inflammation which will damage your skin longer term.
If you still find that results are not what you expect or the product is poor value for money – you can always return it and try something else.
Related posts: