rub into

rub (something) into (something)

To use a forceful rubbing action to apply some substance to a surface and cause it to soak or penetrate into it. The doctor told me to rub this salve into the affected area on my face for two to three weeks. I make a point of rubbing this waterproofing conditioner into my leather boots once a week to protect them from the rainy climate here.
See also: rub
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

rub something into something

 and rub something in
to cause something to penetrate a surface by rubbing it against the surface. Rub this lotion into your muscles. It will stop the aching. Try rubbing in this lotion.
See also: rub
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • rub (something) into (something)
  • rub up
  • rub in
  • rub it in
  • rub over
  • rub (something) (all) over (someone or something)
  • rubbing
  • sink in
  • smooth on
  • soak in