How to Build a Simple Night Skincare Routine

While you sleep, your skin shifts into recovery mode: cell turnover speeds up, blood flow to the skin increases and the barrier works to repair the day's damage. A good night routine doesn't need to be complicated — it just needs to support that process instead of fighting it.

Here is the four-step framework we recommend to almost everyone, whatever your skin type.

1. Cleanse thoroughly — but gently

Sunscreen, pollution and sebum build up through the day. Remove them with a cleanser that leaves your skin comfortable, not squeaky. If you wear heavy makeup or water-resistant SPF, a double cleanse (oil or balm first, then a gentle cream or gel) is worth the extra minute.

2. Treat with one targeted active

Evening is the ideal time for ingredients that make skin more sun-sensitive or that work best undisturbed — retinol, exfoliating acids, or high-strength niacinamide. Pick one per night. Alternating nights is more effective than layering everything at once.

• Fine lines or texture → retinol, 2–3 nights a week to start
• Dullness or rough patches → AHA/PHA exfoliant, 2 nights a week
• Oiliness or post-acne marks → niacinamide, nightly

3. Moisturise to lock it all in

Your moisturiser seals in hydration and cushions any actives. Look for barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids — especially if you're using retinol.

“The best routine is the one you'll actually do every night. Consistency beats complexity, every time.”

4. Optional: an oil or sleeping mask

Dry skin, winter weather or long flights call for extra. Press a few drops of face oil over moisturiser, or swap it for a sleeping mask two or three nights a week.

And that's it. Four steps, ten minutes, and your skin gets the conditions it needs to do what it does best.