First of all, don’t worry!

It’s something that has happened to many of us. And no, it’s not you.

Okay - let’s keep going.

What is skin pilling?

When it comes to pampering your skin, you may have a delightful 4-step skincare routine that involves using various products to keep your face looking its absolute best. From refreshing eye cream to transformative serum and nourishing moisturizer, each of these products can work wonders alone. However, there are times when layering them together makes the magic disappear. You know those little balls that form on your soft cashmere sweaters? Surprise! They can also happen on your face. This is when your skincare products start to form flakes and uneven textures on your face, making it quite a challenge to achieve the smooth and radiant look you desire.

Why does skin pilling happen? Is it normal?

Skin pilling happens for a few reasons, and it's completely normal. One of the main reasons is how the ingredients in your skincare products mix with each other. Sometimes, certain combinations simply don't get along together and end up forming little balls on your skin.

Another reason for pilling is the presence of dead skin cells on your skin. As your skin renews itself, the old cells usually go away naturally, but sometimes they stick around and interfere with your skincare ritual - causing the pilling effect.

The texture and consistency of your products can also play a role. Some skincare products contain heavy oils and fragrances that your skin doesn’t appreciate and are more likely to result in pilling. The good news is that our products are made with ingredients that are clean and toxin-free. For example, our Velvet :08 Broadway Bright Detox Mask is formulated with precious ingredients like Thanaka Wood, Dragon’s Blood, and Palash Extract. All to leave you with an instant luminous glow and velvety-felling skin. As we said, skin pilling is considered normal because it's a natural part of the skin's shedding process. Our skin constantly regenerates, and the shedding-away-dead-skin process helps our skin stay healthy while allowing new layers of skin to grow.

How to know if your skin is pilling

You can easily tell if your skin is pilling by paying attention to certain signs. Here are a few factors that can help you identify if your skin is experiencing pilling:

• Texture: When you touch your skin, you may feel small bumps or an uneven feeling, these uneven areas can be a sign of skin pilling. The rough patches are caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells and product residue, leading to a rough and bumpy texture.
• Appearance: You might notice tiny balls or flakes on your skin, especially after applying products or gently rubbing your skin. These balls can also be product residue combined with dead skin cells. This can give your skin a patchy appearance, making it hard to get a smooth and glowing look.
• Makeup application issues: If your makeup isn’t going on smoothly or starts clumping up into tiny balls after application - it could be a sign of skin pilling. The pilling can mess up your makeup look, causing your foundation or other products to clump and make your makeup look less polished.
• Product buildup: If you start to notice your skincare products don't seem to absorb well into your skin and instead sit on the surface and form a not-very-pleasant layer, it’s a sign of pilling. The product buildup can create a thick barrier on your skin, preventing your skincare products from absorbing into your skin properly and leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
• Irritation or redness: Sometimes, skin pilling can also lead to skin irritation or redness. If you experience discomfort or unusual reactions along with the pilling, it's better to consult a dermatologist. These signals indicate that your skin is sensitive to the ingredients or the effects caused by the pilling.

Simple ways to stop skin pilling (for good)

Dealing with skin pilling can be disappointing, especially when you've put effort into your skincare routine. But don't worry, there are simple things you can do to fix this. By following a few tips, you can overcome this issue and bring back the magic to your skincare routine:

1. Always apply products to cleansed skin

Before diving into your skincare routine, take a moment to cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser that feels good for your skin type. This helps remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can interrupt with the absorption of your skincare products and lead to pilling. Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water and gently pat it dry with a soft towel. Once your skin is clean and dry, it's time to apply your products. Whether it's our Amrutini® True Brew Transforming Serum, a moisturizer, or sunscreen, take a small amount and gently pat it onto your skin.

Give each product a bit of time to absorb before moving on to the next step - when you're applying multiple skincare products to your face, it's important to give each layer some time to soak into your skin. Just wait a few seconds before moving on to the next product. This way, the previous product gets fully absorbed, won't mix or clump up with the next one, and allow your skin to drink in the goodness fully. It's important to apply your products to dry skin, as applying them to damp or wet skin can prevent the absorption of skincare products. So, make sure your face is clean and completely dry before starting your skincare routine - this way, you create an ideal base for your products to work their magic.

2. Exfoliate, but not too much

Exfoliating means getting rid of dead skin cells and unclogging your pores. It helps your skin absorb skincare products better and gives you a fresh and glowing look. However, you need to be careful not to scrub too hard because this can irritate your skin and make it pill.

To prevent skin pilling while exfoliating, choose gentle exfoliating products that feel good for your skin type. Look for ones with small particles or natural ingredients that dissolve dead skin cells without being too harsh on your skin. Stay away from scrubs with bigger particles like walnut shells, as they can be too rough and cause skin pilling.

Also, pay attention to how often you exfoliate. Exfoliating two to three times a week is more than enough for most people. But if your skin is sensitive or you have conditions like eczema or rosacea, it's better to ask a dermatologist for advice that fits your needs. When you exfoliate, use gentle circular motions, and don't press too hard! - let the product do its job. Remember, being gentle is key to preventing skin pilling and keeping your skin happy.

3. Apply your skin care products from thinnest to thickest

There's a simple rule of thumb to keep in mind: go from thinnest to thickest when applying your skincare products. This handy advice can make a big difference in how well your products absorb into your skin and minimize the chances of pilling. The idea behind this is to ensure each product can be completely absorbed before applying the next one. Start with lightweight products, such as serums, which are typically thinner in consistency. These products usually contain ingredients the skin can easily absorb.

After applying the thinnest products, move on to creams or lotions, which tend to have a thicker texture. These moisturizing products help lock in the previous layers of skincare while helping your skin stay hydrated and nourished.

Following this rule will allow each product to settle and absorb properly - preventing any pilling surprises. If you were to apply a thicker product first, it could create an unwanted layer and mess up the absorption of the lighter products. It's worth knowing that this layering technique is one of the best for preventing pilling and maximizing your skincare routine's effectiveness. You can achieve better results when you give each product the opportunity to fully penetrate and deliver its benefits.

4. Use the right amount of your skincare products

Using too much product can overwhelm your skin and lead to product buildup that can cause pilling. On the other hand, using too little product may not provide enough coverage or get the job done. So, how can you find the right balance?

Well, start by reading the labels and instructions on the product packaging. They usually suggest how much to use for the best results. Keep in mind that different products may require different amounts. For example, a small drop of serum might be enough, but for moisturizer, you may need a bit more of it. When applying the products, use a normal amount at first (like a size of a penny) and add more if needed. It's easier to add more than to take away the excess. Avoid rubbing your skin too hard, which could make the pilling worse. Instead, gently pat or press the products onto your skin.

As we said before, start with the ones with a thinner consistency and gradually move to thicker ones. It may take some trial and error to find the right amount for your skin - simply pay attention to how your skin reacts and make as many adjustments as necessary.

To sum it up, you now have all the information you need to combat skin-pilling like a pro! With these helpful tips, you can confidently tackle this skincare challenge head-on. Remember to double-check for any harsh chemicals in your skincare and indulge in skin-loving products only. You’ve got this!