Beauty buff or not, you’ve probably seen a skincare video where the user pats or even aggressively slaps their serums into their face. Some people may find it silly and a bit overdramatic but, trust us, it’s not for nothing.
This method, known as the “pat and slap” method, is a standard skincare application technique in both South Korea and Japan, the two most influential countries when it comes to beauty and skincare. Want to know why they’re patting and slapping their skincare into their face? Keep reading! You might be convinced to start doing it yourself, too.
Everything You Need to Know About the "Pat and Slap" Skincare Technique and Why You Should Be Doing It Too
What are the benefits of the pat and slap skincare technique?
We know slapping yourself might sound crazy, but hear us out! There's actually a pretty logical reason why it works. In a TikTok video, Dr. Vicki Belo explained that she’s been doing the pat and slap technique for 25 years now. She began adding this technique into her skincare routine after Dr. Zein Obagi of the Obagi Skin Health Institute advised her that doing so would increase blood circulation, bring more nutrients to her skin, and thicken her collagen. She also mentioned that it helps products absorb better into the skin, which brings us to our next question: What products should be patted and slapped into the skin?
What type of product should be patted and slapped into the skin?
If you take a look at most skincare videos that uses the pat and slap technique, you'll notice it's only done when using products with lightweight, water to gel consistency. That leaves us with toners, serums, essences, and thin moisturizers. Fun fact: The method was originally created because of lotions.
Unlike Western lotions that are thick and creamy, the popular lotions in Japan and SoKor are water-based. The Hada Labo Hydrating Lotion in particular is very popular in the two nations for its lightweight and ultra-moisturizing feel. And yes, you can use it to achieve glass skin.

Hydrating Lotion, P685, HADA LABO, watsons.com.ph
How should you be patting or slapping products into your skin?
According to Tiktoker and business woman Chriselle Lim, her Korean mom taught her to slap her skincare at least 20 to 30 times. The increased blood circulation creates a natural flush and a supple, glowy look.
Be careful not to beat yourself up trying this technique, though—you shouldn’t be using too much force that it hurts. Focus on making sure the product is properly absorbed all over the face rather than using a lot of force.
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