28.08.2025

Preventing skincare and makeup from pilling

If you’ve ever noticed tiny beads or flakes forming on your skin after applying your products, you’ve likely experienced skincare pilling. It happens when skincare or makeup doesn’t properly absorb, instead forming small clumps or residue that sit on the skin or transfer onto your fingertips. This is often the result of product build-up or incorrect layering—where serums, moisturisers, or SPF begin pilling due to incompatible textures or rushed application. 

Unfortunately, once skin pilling occurs, it’s difficult to reverse without starting your routine again. That’s why understanding how to stop skincare from pilling is essential. From the right application order to giving each layer time to settle, prevention is key to maintaining a smooth, even finish—whether you’re applying skincare alone or layering makeup on top. 

If your skincare is rolling off instead of sinking in, you're experiencing pilling.

If your skincare is rolling off instead of sinking in, you're experiencing pilling.

Check product bases

If pilling is occurring, try taking a closer look at the ingredient list of your skincare and makeup products, paying particular attention to substances like silicones. Silicones are known to contribute to pilling, especially when combined with oil-based products or when layering silicone products on top of each other. To identify silicones in an ingredient list, they typically end in -cone, -siloxane, or -methicone. If the product is silicone-based, then its ingredient name should be among the initial two to three components listed (even if water is the first ingredient listed). These are more commonly used in makeup formulations such as foundations.  

At Emma Lewisham, we have a range of water-based and oil-based products. These products are designed and developed to be compatible and used in tandem. However, when combined with other skincare products or makeup that have potentially incompatible ingredients, pilling can occur. This can happen especially when it comes to using heavier oil and silicone-based products—these can start to repel each other, and cause makeup that is layered on top, to roll off. 

“Your skin's primary job is protection, not instant absorption. Work with its natural wisdom and watch your products perform better."

Allow proper absorption time 

One of the skin’s primary functions is to act as a protective barrier—our vital interface with the world. It works diligently to shield us from external elements while maintaining internal balance. Because of this natural resilience, the skin doesn’t allow substances to penetrate very quickly. When skincare isn’t given adequate time to absorb, the likelihood of pilling increases. This typically occurs when products form a light film on the surface, which can then coagulate into tiny beads when touched or layered with makeup. This can be easily solved by simply slowing down your skincare application process – allowing each product the time it needs to absorb and work in harmony with the skin. 

To ensure there is enough absorption time for each product, as a general guide, apply your skincare from the lightest to the richest textures. Begin with fluid formulations such as toners or serums, and finish with nourishing creams or oils. This layering approach allows each product the time and space to absorb fully before the next is applied. It’s especially important when applying sunscreen, which should always be the final step in your skincare ritual—allowing it to properly settle before makeup is applied. 

Avoid product overload and build up

The temptation to use numerous skincare products can contribute to pilling, particularly if the formulations are incompatible. If you are experiencing pilling, try streamlining your skincare routine by selecting products that complement each other and avoiding excessive layering. Be mindful of potential interactions when combining different brands or types of products to prevent pilling and ensure optimal effectiveness.  

Skincare pilling can also be linked to the accumulation of product residue and dead skin cells on the skin's surface. When these residues combine, they can interfere with the proper absorption of the following products. Incorporating cleansing and exfoliation into your routine regularly, helps to maintain a smooth texture and address this issue.  

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