Evening skincare routines*: How to wind down and prep your skin for bed

Author: Shreya | March 13, 2025

Evening Skincare Routine: How to Wind Down and Prep Your Skin for Bed

Your evening skincare routine is just as important as your morning routine—if not more. While you sleep, your skin goes into repair mode, working to regenerate new cells, boost collagen production, and recover from daily stressors like pollution and UV exposure. A good nighttime routine ensures your skin gets the nourishment and hydration it needs to wake up refreshed and glowing.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wind down and prep your skin for bed, along with expert tips to enhance your skincare routine.

---

Step-by-Step Evening Skincare Routine

1. Remove Makeup (If Applicable)

If you wear makeup, the first step is to remove it completely. Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores, cause breakouts, and accelerate skin aging.

Best Methods:

Oil Cleansers: Great for removing waterproof makeup and sunscreen without stripping moisture.

Micellar Water: Ideal for sensitive skin and light makeup removal.

Makeup Wipes (Occasionally): Use only when necessary, as they can be harsh and drying.

Tip: Use a soft cotton pad to gently wipe away eye makeup without tugging on the delicate skin.

---

2. Double Cleanse for a Deep Clean

Cleansing is essential to remove dirt, excess oil, and pollutants that accumulate throughout the day.

Step 1: Use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to break down makeup, SPF, and oil-based impurities.
Step 2: Follow up with a water-based cleanser (gel, foam, or cream) to remove any remaining debris and clean your pores.

Tips:

If you have dry skin, opt for a hydrating, non-foaming cleanser.

Oily or acne-prone skin benefits from a gel or foaming cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.

Lukewarm water is best—hot water can strip natural oils.

---

3. Exfoliate (2-3 Times a Week)

Exfoliation helps slough off dead skin cells, allowing better absorption of skincare products and promoting cell turnover.

Types of Exfoliation:

Physical Exfoliants: Scrubs with fine particles (use sparingly to avoid microtears).

Chemical Exfoliants: AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) for brightening, BHAs (salicylic acid) for acne-prone skin.

Tips:

Exfoliate at night since skin is more sensitive to sunlight afterward.

Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can lead to irritation and sensitivity.

---

4. Apply a Hydrating Toner

Toner helps restore your skin’s pH balance and prepares it for better product absorption.

Best Toners for Different Skin Types:

Dry Skin: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or rose water-based toner.

Oily Skin: Witch hazel or niacinamide-infused toner to control excess oil.

Sensitive Skin: Alcohol-free, soothing toners with chamomile or aloe vera.

---

5. Apply Targeted Serums and Treatments

This is where you address specific skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, or dullness.

Best Evening Serums:

Retinol: Boosts collagen, reduces fine lines, and smooths skin texture.

Niacinamide: Controls oil, reduces redness, and brightens skin.

Hyaluronic Acid: Locks in moisture and keeps skin plump.

Vitamin C (if not used in the morning): Brightens and reduces dark spots.

Tip: If using retinol, start with a lower concentration and apply only 2-3 times a week to prevent irritation. Always follow up with moisturizer.

---

6. Apply an Eye Cream

The skin around your eyes is delicate and requires extra care. Using an eye cream helps prevent fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles.

Best Ingredients to Look For:

Caffeine: Reduces puffiness.

Peptides: Strengthens and firms the skin.

Hyaluronic Acid: Provides hydration.

Tip: Use your ring finger to gently tap the cream into your skin without tugging.

---

7. Lock in Moisture with a Night Cream or Moisturizer

A good night cream or moisturizer ensures your skin remains hydrated throughout the night and supports skin repair.

Best Night Moisturizers for Different Skin Types:

Dry Skin: Look for ceramides, shea butter, or squalane.

Oily Skin: Opt for a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturizer.

Combination Skin: A balancing formula that hydrates without being greasy.

Tip: Applying moisturizer to damp skin helps lock in hydration more effectively.

---

8. Use a Facial Oil (Optional, for Dry Skin)

If you have dry skin, applying a facial oil can provide an extra layer of nourishment.

Best Oils:

Argan Oil: Lightweight and hydrating.

Rosehip Oil: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin A.

Marula Oil: Great for deep hydration.

Tip: Apply oil after moisturizer to seal in hydration without clogging pores.

---

9. Spot Treatments (If Needed)

For acne-prone skin, apply a spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid directly on blemishes.

Tip: Avoid applying too much product, as it can dry out the skin and cause irritation.

---

Bonus Nighttime Skincare Tips

1. Change Your Pillowcase Regularly

Your pillowcase collects oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells, which can contribute to breakouts. Switch to a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent fine lines.

2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Skin-Friendly Foods

Drinking water and eating antioxidant-rich foods (like berries and nuts) helps support skin repair overnight.

3. Avoid Touching Your Face

Touching your face frequently can transfer bacteria and lead to breakouts.

4. Keep Your Bedroom Cool and Humidified

A cool, humidified environment prevents your skin from drying out while you sleep.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Your skin regenerates at night, so aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep for optimal results.

---

Conclusion

A well-planned evening skincare routine helps your skin recover, repair, and stay hydrated overnight. By following these steps—cleansing, exfoliating (when needed), applying targeted treatments, and locking in moisture—you’ll wake up with refreshed and radiant skin. Consistency is key, so stick to your routine, and your skin will thank you in the long run!

✖