When it comes to taking care of your skin, a good nighttime skin care routine is just as important as the one you establish for day.
For daytime, your priority should be protection – protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays, protection from pollution and to fight against other environmental assaults. A broad spectrum sunscreen as found in Anthelios sunscreens or Colorescience Sunforgettable is a must and should be worn daily year round. An antioxidant as found in apothekari Vitamin C/E and Ferulic Acid will help to boost your sun protection and protect against damaging free radicals. Looking good also takes centre stage. Select products that rectify problems – dry or oily skin, blemishes, wrinkles and fine lines. A good moisturizer, oil control products and formulations that help to minimize the appearance of wrinkles and lines along with blemishes are important. A good concealer or foundation can help to hide dark circles and skin discolorations while active treatments are working to rectify problems.
The focus of your nighttime skin care routine should be about prevention and repair. Focus on the following 4 steps:
- Cleanse to remove grime and make-up. Use one that is gentle so as not to strip away natural oils. I like Reversa Cleanser Gel, which suits most skin types. M2 Exfoliating Cleanser is great for oily or blemished skin but suitable for anyone.
- Antioxidants, which help to protect skin from damage during the day, work differently at night, helping to repair skin damage accumulated over the course of the day. A product like apothekari Vitamin C/E and Ferulic Acid may be used at night as well as day.
- Prevent. An ounce truly is worth a pound of cure. Antioxidants including Vitamins C, E, green tea and ferulic acid will help to fight free radical damage that can leading to skin discolorations, dryness, wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin. Use them during the day and again at night. My top picks include apothekari with Vitamins C/E and Ferulic Acid and Reversa Antioxidant Booster Serum.
- Treat/Repair. A range of products can help to rectify skin issues. It’s never too early to start and certainly if you’re over the age of twenty, consider adding the following to your nighttime skin care routine. We’re all different so choose depending on your own particular skin issues:
a. Green Cream. This Vitamin A derivative formulation not only helps to manage acne and blemishes, it is a must for anyone focused on anti aging skin care. Vitamin A derivatives boost collagen production, reverse the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and reduce pigmentation. The result is tighter, blemish free and more evenly toned skin.
b. Moisturizers. If your skin is dry then moisturizers are a must. At night you may wish to opt for a heavier formulation than daytime to help minimize moisture loss. La Roche Posay Hydraphase and La Roche Posay Hydreane. View our full selection here.
c. Eye treatments. If you have dry skin, crowsfeet or dark circles, choose from our extensive selection of treatments designed to address your concerns. View our full selection here.
d. Skin Lightening. Melasma, scars or other skin discolorations may prompt you to try formulations designed to deliver a more even tone. Choose from a selection including hydroquinone, kojic acid or botanical lighteners.
e. Exfoliants. To alleviate dryness and deliver a smooth look, exfoliate regularly. View our selection here.
f. Other targeted treatments. Shop by skin type/condition to view other treatments for individual skin concerns.
A nighttime skin care routine needn’t be complicated or costly, if you stick to a core group of products right for your skin.