Many women focus on early morning skincare routines so they can start the day with their best face forward. However, when it comes to helping the skin heal, overnight skin repair is far superior.
Here’s how you can build an evening recovery ritual that will support your skin health and have you glowing when you wake up.
Morning skincare routines vs night-time skincare routines
Caring for your skin early in the morning has benefits, like prepping for make-up or just helping you start the day with a bare face. Plus, research finds that 59 per cent of Australians view themselves as a morning person— it’s easier to give your skin some tender loving care when you have the most time.
However, one thing to consider is that early morning skincare doesn’t really consider how your skin repairs itself. Night-time routines are centred more on recovery, which makes it a more successful ritual in the long run.
What makes night-time skincare work so successfully?
Evening skincare routines can contribute plenty to your skin health and recovery. Here’s an overview of why they’re so effective:
Decreases skin challenges
People have many reasons for using skincare products, and more people are investing in them. The Australian skincare market is projected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.39 per cent from 2025 to 2023, highlighting its importance at any time of day.
Unfortunately, morning routines face too many hindrances. For example, environmental pollution can inhibit skincare benefits and add a layer of grime. Being awake also means being exposed to stressful situations, which causes internal hormonal changes.
With night-time skincare, you’re typically staying at home, which gives your skin the best environment possible to recover.
Improves absorption to the skin
It can take time for the skin to soak up all the nutrients from the products applied to it. However, skincare treatments like IV therapy can speed up the process, as your body can use almost 100 per cent of the antioxidants delivered to your bloodstream.
Night-time skincare is an excellent and natural alternative for every use. Simply apply the product and let it sit while you recuperate to help the skin absorb it.
Lines up with skin cell regeneration
Skin cells naturally renew, and it’s essential to support this process. While they generally regenerate every 27 days or so, the process typically ramps up during the evening since fewer stressors are affecting those layers.
Applying skincare products at night is a way to help with the removal of dead skin cells and work with the timing of your skin’s healing.
Promotes routine and early bedtime
Another perfect reason night-time skincare works is that it encourages a routine that you can fall into every single day. Consistently using it to cap your night could result in an earlier and more quality night’s rest. Regular late bedtime can damage the skin barrier and structure while reducing diversity and composition.
Creating the best night-time skincare routine
Seeing as night-time is the best time to have a skincare ritual, it’s time to create your own. Here are some suggestions on how you can take care of your skin throughout the night:
1. Have a balanced diet
It’s important to have a balanced diet that will give your skin the right antioxidants that can help it repair itself. Make sure you’re prepping healthy dinners prior to your skincare product application.
Keep a tall glass of water on hand to help with hydration and flush out any toxins that can create breakouts.
2. Cleanse thoroughly, do weekly add-ons
Cleansing is one of the most important steps to a good evening skincare routine. After all, it’s important to get rid of any make-up residue, grime and other things on your face. A good rule of thumb is to wash for 60 seconds minimum every night with a cleansing oil. Follow it up with a regular cleanser of your choice.
After cleansing, it’s a good time to fit in any occasional skincare products you use on your face. For instance, maybe you want to exfoliate once a week to help with removing the dead skin cells. If you need an extra boost of hydration during the drier parts of the year, face masks are an absolute must.
4. Add a moisturiser
Are you dealing with dryness? A night moisturiser can help the skin repair itself overnight. Make sure you choose a formula that’s compatible with your skin type — if you tend to have oilier skin, a lighter gel face and body lotion may be more appropriate.
5. Apply a retinoid
Retinoids can help improve skin elasticity and firmness. They can also help with clearing the skin of acne and blemishes. Your doctor will typically recommend a schedule for putting them on, but they should only be applied at night since they increase sun sensitivity.
6. Get an ample amount of rest
After putting on skincare products, make a point to take it easy and rest. About 39 per cent of Australian adults struggle with inadequate sleep, which is ruining their energy levels and skin health as well. Aim to get some well-deserved sleep every night.
Focus on overnight skin repair
Night-time skin recovery is the best option for maintaining long-term skin health. Create a routine that works with your skin and practice it consistently. With time and effort, you’ll be sure to see your skin grow more youthful and supple than ever before.
