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When it comes to skincare the importance of nighttime skincare must not be overlooked. Although we might be sleeping our skin is not and it is working. During the night our skin is working by repairing, regenerating and renewing itself. Therefor using what is called night creams or nighttime skin repair creams is very important. These creams can help by dramatically improving our complexion and the overall health of our skin.
In this article we will look at why these nighttime creams are so effective and why many skincare professionals highly recommend them.
Why Your Skin Heals Better at Night
Just like the rest of our body our skin has its own rhythm. During the daytime our skin is working mainly on defence. It works on defence by protecting our skin from things such as environmental stressors like pollution, UV rays from the sun, and free radicals. But at night our skin switches to the repair mode. It switches to repair mode by increasing collagen production and cell turnover.
Key biological processes that happen during sleep:
- Collagen synthesis: The rate of production of collagen which is a protein responsible for the skin’s elasticity and firmness increases at night.
- Cell regenerating: The rate of skin cell production almost doubles at night specifically peaking between 10 PM and 2 AM.
- Reduced cortisol levels: Lower stress hormones level during nighttime allowing for better healing and repair.
- Increased blood flow: When we have better blood circulation, we have more nutrients and oxygen delivered to skin cells.
So, as you can see due to this natural rhythm nighttime can be the optimal time for applying those treatments that target hydration, aging, pigmentation and inflammation.
What Are PM Creams?
PM creams are those specialized serums and moisturizers which are formulated to improve the skin’s overnight repairing process. These creams are different that daytime creams which are mainly targeting protection such as (SPF and antioxidants). The focus of nighttime creams is on recovery. Some of the ingredients in nighttime creams may cause sensitivity to the sun or need a longer absorption time.
Some common active ingredients in PM creams are:
- Peptides: They promote skin regeneration and reduce the signs of aging.
- Ceramides: Helps to strengthen the skin barrier and retain moisture.
- Niacinamide: Reduce inflammation, redness and improve the tone.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration to soften the skin.
- AHAs/BHAs: Help to gently exfoliate and clear pores.
Why Nighttime Creams Work Better While You Sleep
The reasons nighttime creams are more effective are due to several factors:
- Longer Absorption Time: As we sleep there is no sweating, makeup or environmental interference. This allows nighttime creams uninterrupted hours to penetrate the skin deeply and do their work.
- No UV Interference: Many skincare active ingredients such as retinol, AHAs and vitamin C can breakdown and become unstable due to exposure of sunlight. At nighttime the potency of these ingredients is protected.
- Skin Permeability Increase at Night: During the night as we sleep our skin barrier is more permeable. This allows the products to penetrate more deeply and deliver the ingredients to the deeper tissues of the skin where they are needed most.
- Reduced Exposure to External Stressors: At nighttime our skin is not dealing with things such as makeup, blue light, pollution, or UV rays. This allows nighttime creams to work without daytime stressors.
How to Maximize Nighttime Skin Repair
In order to maximize the potential of nighttime creams is best to follow these steps:
- Cleanse the skin thoroughly: It is essential to start with a clean face. Remove makeup, dirt, ad oil using a gentle cleanser which is suitable for your skin type.
- Use a Toner: By using a toner your skin in better prepared to absorb the PM creams.
- Apply Targeted Treatment: You should use spot treatments or serums before your nighttime cream. This is especially important when treating hyperpigmentation, acne or aging.
- Apply the PM cream: Massage the cream gently into your skin.
- Consistency is key: Make sure to use your nighttime creams continually to see long-term improvements.
Best PM Cream Ingredients for Your Skin Type
Make sure to use the right ingredients which are most suitable for your skin type.
Dry Skin: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter.
Oily/ Acne Prone skin: Niacinamide, salicylic acid, lightweight peptides.
Sensitive Skin: Centella Asiatica, allantoin, fragrance-free.
Aging Skin: Phyto stem cells, peptides, antioxidants (vitamin E/C).
Dull Skin: Glycolic acid, licorice root, vitamin C.
Mistakes to Avoid When Using Nighttime Creams
- Using too much: Applying more products does not mean better results.
- Not using sunscreen, the following day: This is especially important if you use retinoids or acids at night.
- Not patch testing new products: By testing the products first you can prevent irritation.
- Mixing too many active ingredients: Layering acids, retinol, and vitamin C can backfire. Stick to one or two key ingredients per night.
Final Thoughts
When you are using a high-quality nighttime cream, you are providing your skin with much more than just skincare. You are giving your skin science backed self-care. While you are sleeping your skin is able to heal and reset itself. Nighttime creams have been specifically formulated to enhance this natural cycle. Nighttime creams will help your skin to look fresher, brighter and have a healthier complexion.
No matter what your age is being in your 20’s and trying to prevent aging or being in your 50’s and trying to treat sun damage nighttime creams are essential. Therefor invest and focus on nighttime creams and stay consistent and your skin will do the rest of the work!
