Discovering a skincare routine that works for your needs and preferences is both an art and a science. On one hand, you want to ensure you're using the right products for your skin type and concerns. On the other, your skincare routine needs to fit in with your routine.
This begs the question—does it matter what time of day or night you moisturize? In other words, if you have more time for skin care in the evening, is it OK to moisturize at night only? What about if you're a morning person who just doesn't have the energy to moisturize before they pass out at night?
To settle this debate, we asked a few seasoned dermatologists to weigh in on whether you should moisturize your face at night. Here's what they had to say about the benefits, drawbacks, and considerations when it comes to moisturizing your face at night.
What Are the Benefits of Moisturizing Your Face at Night?
Moisturizing your face at night helps to hydrate your face and promotes healthier and more radiant skin, says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. If you've ever wondered why certain moisturizers are labeled for use at night, there's some science behind that, too.
"Nighttime moisturizers often contain anti-aging ingredients like retinol or peptides, aiding in collagen production and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," explains Dr. Garshick. "Additionally, applying moisturizer before bed creates a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss and safeguarding against environmental stressors for overall improved skin health."
As Howard Sobel, MD, clinical attending cosmetic dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital, explains, moisturizing your face at night allows active ingredients to penetrate the skin more effectively than moisturizing in the morning.
"The skin goes into 'repair mode' at night," he says. "So evening is the best time to treat the skin and repair concerns, and the best time for any active ingredients to penetrate the skin."
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What Are the Drawbacks of Moisturizing Your Face at Night?
While dermatologists agree that it's beneficial to moisturize your skin at night, choosing the right moisturizer is important. Also, avoid formulas that are not ideal for your skin's needs and preferences.
"Certain ingredients in night creams, such as retinoids, may cause skin irritation or sensitivity for some individuals," explains Dr. Garshick. "Additionally, using a heavy moisturizer at night could lead to clogged pores or breakouts, particularly for those with oily or acne-prone skin."
Believe it or not, there’s also such a thing as too much moisturizer. "Over-moisturizing, especially with products containing potent active ingredients, may disrupt the skin's natural balance over time."
But how do you know if you're over-moisturizing at night? According to Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified celebrity dermatologist and founder of Althaea Skin, if your skin feels sticky or tacky after applying moisturizer, it may indicate that you've used too much product or that the formulation isn't absorbing well into your skin.
Clogged pores and breakouts are other signs of over-moisturizing, she says. "Regularly assessing your skin's needs and adjusting your skincare routine accordingly can help prevent over-moisturizing and maintain a healthy balance of hydration for your skin."
Should Everyone Be Moisturizing Their Face at Night?
The short answer is yes, you should moisturize your face at night. But it's important to consider your skin's needs when doing so.
"Those with dry skin often benefit from applying a moisturizer at night to help replenish lost moisture and prevent dehydration," says Dr. Shamban. "Those with normal or oily skin may not require heavy moisturization every night but can still benefit from using a lightweight moisturizer to maintain hydration."
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How to Moisturize Your Face at Night
When selecting a moisturizer to use at night, certain considerations should be kept in mind. Dr. Sobel recommends avoiding moisturizers with ingredients that might dry out the skin at night, such as glycolic acid. Instead, opt for moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides for hydration, repair, and anti-aging benefits.
"Consider your skin type and choose a formulation that suits it, such as lightweight gel or lotion for oily skin or richer creams for dry skin," says Dr. Garshick. "Avoid night moisturizers containing potentially irritating ingredients like artificial fragrances, alcohol, or heavy oils, as they may lead to sensitivity or breakouts."
After determining your skin type, tailor your moisturizer and routine to suit it. Below, Dr. Shamban outlines how and when to moisturize your face based on skin type.
Dry Skin
- When to Moisturize: Moisturize morning and night, and consider applying an extra layer if your skin feels particularly dry during the day. Always pair it with a serum first.
- Best Moisturizers: Look for rich, creamy moisturizers with hyaluronic acid, shea butter, ceramides, and natural oils to hydrate and nourish dry skin deeply.
Oily Skin
- When to Moisturize: After cleansing in the morning and evening, opt for lightweight, oil-free formulations that won't clog pores or feel greasy.
- Best Moisturizers: Choose an oil-free moisturizer with hyaluronic acid and non-comedogenic oils to hydrate without adding excess oil.
Combination Skin
- When to Moisturize: Moisturize twice daily after cleansing, focusing on hydrating drier areas while keeping oilier zones balanced.
- Best Moisturizers: Use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that balances hydration.
Sensitive Skin
- When to Moisturize: Moisturize morning and night, choosing gentle, fragrance-free formulas to minimize irritation.
- Best Moisturizers: Opt for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizers with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, colloidal oatmeal, and ceramides to calm and hydrate sensitive skin.
Normal Skin
- When to Moisturize: Moisturize morning and night, using a balanced moisturizer that maintains hydration without feeling heavy.
- Best Moisturizers: For overall skin health, choose lightweight lotions, serums, or moisturizing creams with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants.
Bottom Line
It's important to remember that what may work well for others (even if they have the same skin type) might not work for your skin, too. Finding the right product to moisturize your face at night may take some trial and error. Use the above as a guide for whether or not to moisturize your face at night.
"Ultimately, it's essential to consider personal preferences and consult with a dermatologist to determine the best nighttime skincare routine for optimal skin health," says Garshick.
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