Apply the cream to clean, dry, intact skin around the thumb, focusing on the areas that feel dry, rough or tight. Use a small amount first, because richer creams spread better once warmed between the fingers. Massage it in gently until the surface no longer feels overly greasy, paying attention to the base and sides of the thumb where skin often rubs during gripping or phone use.
Good times to use it include the evening, after outdoor exposure, or after repeated hand washing when the skin around the thumb feels less supple. If you use it during the day, allow it to absorb before handling paper, screens, tools or fabrics, as any richer cream can temporarily leave a residue. For very dry-feeling skin, applying it at night may be more practical because the product can stay on the area for longer without being washed off immediately.
Avoid applying it to broken, freshly irritated or scratched skin, especially because menthol and camphor can feel intense on compromised areas. Do not apply it close to the eyes or mucous membranes, and wash your hands after application if you do not want the cooling-warming sensation transferred to other areas. If redness, burning or discomfort appears, stop using it.