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Complicated skincare rituals ala YouTube and TikTok tutorials may be all the rage right now, but if you’re craving for simplicity (that’s more reasonably priced within your budget) don’t despair. Using a million different products doesn’t necessarily equate to better skincare outcomes, and in fact, piling all of those active ingredients and clog-poring serums onto your skin at once can even irritate and disrupt your fragile skin barrier. When you add the dryness of winter to your skincare woes, it’s even more important to make sure you’re avoiding products that can strip the skin of its moisture (toners containing alcohol, I’m looking straight at you).
Developing a solid, smart, and easy-to-follow nighttime skincare routine is one way to boost your skin’s hydration at the end of a long day. “As the day comes to a close, your skincare routine should begin,” said Beauty Expert Ingrid Leo, co-founder at stylewithingrid.com. “Cleansing, hydrating, and nourishing are all essential steps that can help address any existing issues you may have or prevent in the future.”
Here are Leo’s key points to help you get started with your nighttime skincare routine — they’re all so simple to follow and won’t break the bank.
1. Cleansing
Properly cleansing your skin is the first step in any nighttime skincare routine. “This helps remove dirt, sweat, and makeup from the surface of your skin so that it can better absorb products for optimal hydration,” Leo said. To maintain the pH balance of your skin, Leo recommends opting for a gentle cleanser that is around 5.5 on the acidity scale. “This will be much more beneficial than soap, which tends to dry out the face and has an alkaline-based pH,” Leo said. “To take it one step further, select a cleanser with added hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or niacinamide as these active ingredients help to replenish moisture within the skin. My personal choice is a hydrating cleanser from Cerave.”
As far as cleaning methods go, Leo says to always use a cleanser on wet skin, let it sink for a few minutes and then gently massage and finally wipe with a wet microfiber cloth. For the best results, she recommends applying your cleanser to wet skin and carefully massaging it to your skin. Finish off by wiping away with a damp microfiber cloth which will effectively pick up any remaining dirt particles.
“If your skin needs more than one face wash, try repeating the procedure with a different cleanser depending on your skin's needs,” Leo said. “The same facial cleanser can be used too; just ensure that it is massaged further into the skin for optimal results.”
For individuals that have oily skin or heavy makeup to remove, Leo says to reach for a foaming cleanser and electric brush combination to achieve better results. “For acne, look for a cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, leaving the product on the skin for a few minutes,” Leo said. “But try to use foaming agents, electric brushes, and substances for acne treatment infrequently (for example, several times a week) to avoid skin dryness and irritation.”
2. Moisturizing
Serums are great and all — particularly hyaluronic acid serums that are deeply moisturizing. But if your budget or time doesn’t allow for a serum, no worries — just don’t skip moisturizer. “For the best results, switch to a lighter cream during summer and a more nourishing one in winter,” Let said. “For optimal efficacy, apply creams and serums on wet skin as this helps lock moisture into the skin while allowing active ingredients to penetrate deeper within. My favorite moisturizing lotion from Cerave is oil-free and has active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help lock in moisture and protect your skin barrier.”
Eye cream is also an important step, Leo says, as the eye area is delicate with thinner and more fragile skin; therefore, it requires extra care. “A lightweight eye cream can help reduce puffiness, dark circles, wrinkles, and fine lines,” she said.
As for facial toner? Leo says this product is not necessary for a nighttime skincare routine but if you choose to use it, opt for a toner that has gentle ingredients and avoid toners with alcohol as this can dry out the skin and strip away its natural oil.
“For those who need a more intensive moisturizing experience, try applying a serum or sleeping mask before going to bed,” Leo said. “Serums are great for combating dryness and dehydration while masks help create an occlusive layer on the skin surface and act as a barrier against environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution. Vitamin B5 from Timeless offers an oil-free serum with hyaluronic acid that helps restore the skin's natural moisture levels and protect against dryness. Always use serums on wet skin to retain the moisture on the face. Whether you apply the serum after washing your face or after applying a cream, it is equally effective.”
3. Lip Care
Don’t forget your lips — which can suffer in the cold winter months. “Refrain from licking your lips as saliva contains enzymes that can dehydrate them,” Leo said. “Additionally, steer clear of lip balms with added sugars which will instigate more lip-licking. Because the lips are devoid of sebaceous glands, they lack protection and nourishment; thus, go for a balm that includes natural oils, and moisturizers like shea butter.”
Three or four steps are all that’s needed in your nighttime skincare routine for gorgeous, healthy, and hydrated skin. Keep it simple and choose products with nourishing ingredients.
