How many times have you woken up, looked in the mirror and seen a zit that wasn’t there when you went to bed? For many, waking up to a breakout is not the best way to start the day.
To avoid these annoying morning surprises, try developing an overnight skincare routine. Applying products before bed that are meant to work overnight can allow you to wake up with a glowy, refreshed complexion. Here’s how to master a nighttime skincare routine.
Nighttime Skincare Routine: Products That Work Overnight
About
three in four women have both morning and night routines. While morning skin care serves to prep your skin before going out into the elements, a nighttime routine cleanses your skin from the day and prevents breakouts from developing while you sleep.
As a quick disclaimer, not all skin care can be left overnight. For instance, masks must be removed as the fluids evaporate after 20 minutes or so. It’s quite the opposite of hydrating sleeping masks, which are formulated to stay on throughout the night. Before applying any product before bed, read the instructions to ensure it’s safe to leave on for several hours.
How to apply skin care before bed
Overnight skin care can take many forms to see the best results. You can adopt all the steps or be selective, as you know your skin type and condition best.
1. Double cleanse and exfoliate
Your skin accumulates plenty of dirt and bacteria throughout the day. Plus, if you wear
makeup, it’s an additional product to take off. Use a
cleansing balm to melt off the gunk. A
cleanser afterward can leave your skin feeling fresh.
Try to
exfoliate as well. This step can
smooth out your skin texture and brighten your skin tone. You also provide a clean slate for other skin care products. Just limit doing this step to once or twice a week.
2. Add on pimple patches
If you have a couple of spots, consider applying
pimple patches. These hydrocolloid stickers are designed to absorb the fluid from your wounds, which can minimize your acne inflammation and heal your skin.
Some people use pimple patches in the morning under makeup. However, putting them on for your overnight skin care routine is possible. You can even
keep them on throughout the morning when you shower and wash your face, as they’re typically waterproof.
3. Apply a thick moisturizer
A
thick moisturizer is vital during the overnight skin care prep. Most people choose a cream formula since it’s incredibly emollient. People with dry skin may experience softer and smoother skin, especially with the cleansing and exfoliating combo.
Keep in mind that even oily people should still use moisturizer. Skin oil — also known as sebum — is
naturally produced by the body to maintain barrier function. It does not hydrate the skin. If you find creams too heavy, consider gel variations instead.
4. Put on overnight masks
After applying moisturizer, you can add an
overnight mask. It protects the rest of your skin while keeping it hydrated throughout the night. Just ensure you don’t toss and turn in your sleep to keep the product on throughout the night.
There are various overnight masks, with most meant for the whole face. However, if you want to focus on hydrating certain features like the lips and under eyes, there are products specifically for those purposes.
5. Drink a glass of water
Drinking water is an optional but beneficial step in your overnight skincare routine. A few fluids before bed can
prevent dehydration in the skin and body. Have a glass right before adding a
lip mask so your drink is free of product.
Some may feel tempted to drink more water before bed for extra moisture, but remember — your skin care will be enough and it isn’t worth getting up to use the bathroom multiple times a night. If you want to work on internal hydration, drink water throughout the day instead.
6. Go to sleep
Complete your overnight skincare routine by going to sleep. Even if you have creams on, staying up late isn’t great for your skin. Try to get a full night’s rest. Ensure you’re comfortable and the products won’t roll off your skin.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, there are always a few remedies you can try out. For instance, people with a more active lifestyle
sleep much better at night than those with less physical activity, so consider working out within a few hours of your bedtime. You can also make a habit of putting your phone away and hiding any other distractions.
Overnight skincare products to try
Now that you have the routine, it’s time to explore products. Every skincare enthusiast will have their own holy grails. As you’re starting out, here are excellent recommendations to try.
1. Pacifica Pore Warrior Overnight Rescue Spot Dots
These Pacifica overnight dots treat blemishes while you sleep. Simply apply the dots to any spots you have and let them work their magic. The hydrocolloid and tea tree oil work to fight oil without over drying your skin. They also help you avoid scratching or picking at your blemishes, which prevents scarring.
2. Acure Revived Radiance Overnight Mask
The Acure Revived Radiance mask helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles overnight. The mask combines retinol and collagen with avocado oil to brighten and rejuvenate dull skin. It works for all skin types, particularly mature skin, and it can be applied to both your face and neck.
3. Andalou Natural Deep Hydration Revitalizing Sleeping Mask
This Andalou Natural sleep mask is perfect for overall hydration. The collagen and hyaluronic acid plump skin and provide deep hydration, and ceramides protect the skin from environmental stressors. Apply this mask before bed and rinse in the morning to see the results.
4. Derma E Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Concentrate Serum
The Derma E retinol serum treats redness, dryness, irritation and peeling. The antioxidant-rich ingredients reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, increase cell turnover and minimize pores. This product will help you restore your skin’s youthful glow overnight.
5. NENA Skincare Overnight Lip Mask
When building your overnight skincare routine, don’t forget your lips. This NENA Skincare lip mask soothes and nourishes your lips with a blend of natural oils and vitamins. Apply the mask to your lips before bed and wake up with soft lips – no need to wash it off.
6. Derma E Ultra Hydrating Advanced Repair Night Cream
This Derma E night cream is a great daily moisturizer to rehydrate your skin every night. The mix of hyaluronic acid, squalene and ceramides provides maximum moisture and strengthens your skin barrier. The vitamins and natural ingredients, like aloe vera and green tea, also work to provide antioxidants and heal your skin.
Achieve plump and healthy skin
Overnight skin care is excellent for rejuvenating your complexion while snoozing away. Take your time when applying the various layers involved with this routine and pick up the recommendations above to give your skin a treat.
