Don’t you hate it when you’re doing your makeup and all over a second it looks like your foundation is peeling off? Well, in today’s post I’m going to be talking about pilling, what it is, why it happens and how you can prevent it from happening.
What is pilling?
So first of all, what is pilling? Pilling is the appearance of mini balls on the face, usually when applying foundation. Think of it like your favourite wool winter coat that’s prone to those irritating balls that form over time.
Why do products pill?
Products pill for three main reasons:
- There is too much product that’s not being absorbed by the skin.
- The surface of the skin is uneven.
- There are ingredients in the product that make it more susceptible to pilling.
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| when you apply more than the recommended amount of product… |
Times when my products have pilled
I actually shared my first experience with pilling products last year when I reviewed the Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Eye Cream sample. Only back then I didn’t know the product was actually pilling. Do you remember how I likened it to peeling PVA glue off my hand? After this first time, I’ve also experienced pilling quite a bit. I usually notice it in the mornings when I’m getting ready for work or during the day.
How can you prevent pilling?
Well depending on the reason why your product is pilling, the solution could be very different. In my case, I can (and have when I remember) reduce pilling by applying less product and allowing for more time between applying product. I’m usually rushing a lot in the morning so allowing for more time between product applications doesn’t always work for me, but it’s something I’m working on.
For the case of uneven skin, exfoliating is your best friend. Either exfoliate with an acid like glycolic or mandelic or use a physical scrub like my favourite Fresh Sugar Polish. Exfoliating will slough away at the dead skin on your face, allowing it to be more receptive to products.
On the other hand, if your product is pilling because of an ingredient, it’s best to pair it with another product that’s made up of similar elements. For example using a water-based serum, toner, moisturiser etc. alternately you can replace the product with something else.
Have you had issues with your makeup or skincare products pilling? Let me know in the comments. See you again on Friday!
alice
xo
