Do I need a separate night cream?

What does a night cream do differently?

Night creams are usually thicker and designed to moisturize and soothe skin. Day creams tend to be lighter and focus on hydration and protection, sometimes including sunscreen. Those are useful differences in formula, but the word "night" is not itself a moisturizing ingredient. Manufacturers also use terms such as lotion, gel and cream differently, so the category name alone cannot tell you how a product will feel.23

Can I use the same moisturizer morning and night?

Yes, a moisturizer that gives you enough hydration and feels comfortable can serve both routines. Moisturizers add moisture and reduce water loss; those jobs do not require separate jars with separate shifts. In the morning, include broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, whether it is part of your moisturizer or a separate product. A plain moisturizer does not replace sun protection.1

When is a richer evening cream worth using?

• For dry skin, a cream generally provides more moisture than a lotion. Ointments are more protective but can feel greasy.
• For oily skin, a lighter gel can be a better fit than a thick cream. More occlusive products, which form a barrier against water loss, can aggravate acne.
• For combination skin, moisturize the dry areas rather than automatically covering oily areas with the same rich product.
• For seasonal dryness, adjust the texture as needed. Needing a richer cream in winter does not mean you need two moisturizers all year.

For dry or sensitive skin, look for fragrance free formulas with moisturizing ingredients such as ceramides or hyaluronic acid. Avoid adding exfoliating acids to dry, peeling skin. A night cream can be a plain moisturizer rather than an exfoliant or anti aging treatment; bedtime does not require a more ambitious ingredient list.1

How should I apply moisturizer at night?

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and gently pat dry.
2. 2Apply any skin medication or treatment after cleansing.
3. 3Apply your moisturizer. Without a preceding treatment, applying it while skin is still slightly damp helps trap water.

Slightly dry skin may need only a light moisturizer at night; drier skin can need more frequent application. Moisturizing benefits are greatest in the first six hours after application, so persistent dryness can call for regular reapplication rather than simply buying a thicker night cream.4

What if the night cream contains retinol?

Retinol can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and brown spots, but it can cause irritation. Start with a very small amount three times a week and increase as tolerated, taking particular care with sensitive skin. Avoid stacking several anti aging products, which can irritate skin. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check any medicated cream before use because some topical medicines are unsafe.235

When should I stop or get help?

Stop a moisturizer if it causes contact dermatitis, an irritated or allergic skin rash. See a dermatologist if dryness does not improve, or becomes painful, cracked, bleeding, stinging or very irritating. Persistent symptoms need more attention than a change from a day label to a night label.14