How to use Lancome Absolue Soft Cream and the refill pod

What Absolue The Soft Cream is, as Lancome describes it

Lancome lists Absolue Perpetual Rose extract, Pro-Xylane and Absolue PDRN extract as the formula's key ingredients, and calls it the brand's first topical PDRN cream (first within the Lancome brand). It describes the texture as a luxurious, lightweight cream that transforms into a thin, serum-like lotion when applied, and says it delivers up to 24 hours of hydration.

The jar on our list holds 1.0 oz (30 ml) and lists at $170. The refill holds 2.0 oz (59 ml) and lists at $242. For the wider line, see what is Lancome Absolue and our Lancome Absolue guide.

How much to use and how to apply it

Because the texture thins out as you spread it, the Soft Cream tends to cover more area than its jar look suggests. Start with one pea and add more only if a patch feels uncovered. Our how much face cream to use page explains amounts in more detail.

1. 1

   Cleanse and apply any toner, essence or serum first. Lancome's Absolue Serum and Absolue Longevity MD serum both go before cream.

2. 2

   Use a clean spatula or dry fingertip to take a pea-size amount, about 0.3 to 0.5 ml.

3. 3

   Warm it between two fingertips for a few seconds.

4. 4

   Dot it on the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin.

5. 5

   Smooth outward and upward until the cream thins and spreads evenly.

6. 6

   Take a second small amount for the neck if you want.

7. 7

   In the morning, finish with sunscreen as the last step.

Using a spatula with the jar

A spatula keeps fingers out of the jar and lets you take the same amount each time. If your jar came with a spatula, use it and wipe it clean after each use. If not, any clean cosmetic spatula works. Keep the lid closed between uses and store the jar away from heat and direct sun.

Our step-by-step guide to using a cream jar spatula shows how to scoop from the surface instead of digging, which keeps the cream level and makes the last bit easier to reach when it is time to refill.

How to swap the refill capsule

The twist directions come from Lancome's listing: twist right to release, twist left to secure. If the capsule does not turn, check that you are holding the outer jar rather than the lid, and do not force it. The refill sizes may differ from the jar you own, so check that the refill listing names the same product, Absolue The Soft Cream, before you buy.

1. 1

   Wash and dry your hands.

2. 2

   Open the jar lid.

3. 3

   Hold the outer jar firmly and twist the empty inner capsule to the right to release it.

4. 4

   Lift the empty capsule out.

5. 5

   Remove the seal or cap from the new refill, following the instructions in the box.

6. 6

   Set the new refill into the outer jar.

7. 7

   Twist it to the left until it is secure.

8. 8

   Close the lid. Check your local recycling rules for the empty capsule.

Note.Write the date you opened a new refill on the box or a small label. Check the open-jar PAO symbol on the packaging for how many months it is meant to be used after opening.

What the refill saves per ml

The jar and the refill on our list are different sizes, so compare per ml, not per item. Use our price per ml calculator with current prices, since listings change. The numbers below use the listed prices in our guides. Our luxury skincare refills explained page compares refills across brands.

Compare all Absolue jars and refills →

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Absolue Soft Cream morning and night? It is a face moisturizer, and many people use it twice a day. In the morning, apply sunscreen over it as the last step.

Does the refill fit any Absolue jar? Buy the refill that matches your cream. A refill sold for The Soft Cream is meant for The Soft Cream jar. Check the listing title and the box.

Is the Soft Cream lighter than the Rich Cream? Lancome describes the Soft Cream as lightweight and the Rich Cream as rich, with up to 48 hours of hydration. See our Soft vs Rich comparison.

What if the cream feels heavy on my skin? Use less and spread it thinner first. Our greasy cream fix has more steps.