Practice the “less is more” philosophy in your evening skincare routine to achieve good and visible results with minimal effort.
If you’ve been chronically online, chances are you’ve encountered a TikTok video of someone “deshedding” as part of their morning routine. The trend began with an audio clip that says, “I go to bed like this, so I can wake up like this,” while showing the before and after of their nighttime skincare and morning “shed” routine. Sure, the results are outstanding, to say the least—however, the trend makes nighttime skincare feel a little too intimidating.
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After a long and tiring day, not everyone has the energy or capacity to cleanse their face and apply five different products just to wake up camera-ready. Sometimes, embracing a simplified nighttime skincare routine works just as well.
In a conversation with my longtime aesthetician, she mentioned that at night, cleansing, applying a serum that targets specific skin concerns, and using a moisturizer are enough to keep your skin looking plump and healthy by morning. These three simple steps form the foundation of a nighttime skincare routine—you can always add more if you’d like.
Cleanse According To Your Skin Type
In a follow-up consultation with my dermatologist, I asked which cleanser I should use for my skin. For context, I used to have oily skin, but now I have combination skin—meaning some areas are oily while others are dry. My dermatologist suggested using a gentle cleanser, as my skin type is no longer oily. She also mentioned that for oily skin, cleansers containing glycolic or salicylic acid work best. Lastly, for those with dry skin, hydrating cleansers are recommended to remove dirt while keeping the skin moisturized.
Use Serums That Target Problems
Serums are lightweight formulas designed to address specific skin concerns. They’re usually infused with vitamins and acids that target your skin’s unique needs. For starters, a vitamin C serum is a great addition to your nighttime skincare routine. Vitamin C helps maintain collagen while also encouraging new growth. It leaves your skin looking plumper and helps reduce the appearance of pores and acne scars.
Moisturize For Protection
Moisturizers are an essential part of any skincare routine, as they help lock in hydration and prevent moisture loss. At night, your skin has a chance to repair and regenerate, making it the ideal time to use a moisturizer that’s richer and more nourishing than your daytime formula.
When choosing a nighttime moisturizer, always consider your environment. If you’re in a humid area, opt for a lighter formula—such as a gel-based or water-based moisturizer—to avoid clogging your pores. In cooler climates, you can use heavier creams to achieve the best results.
This simplified skincare routine is just a suggestion, always consult a licensed professional regarding your skin.
Banner photo by KoolShooters via Pexels.
