Let’s talk about one of the most underrated ways to improve your skin: beauty sleep. The way you treat your skin at night can make all the difference in how you look and feel in the morning. After a long day facing pollution, sun exposure, and makeup, your skin craves restoration. Nighttime is when your body—and your skin—repairs itself, and making the most of this window is crucial for that glow we all want!
Studies even show that those who don’t get quality sleep are more likely to experience premature skin aging, have a compromised skin barrier, and let’s be honest—they’re not waking up happy with their mirror story. Beauty sleep isn’t just a saying, it’s science! And with the right nighttime skincare habits, you can help your skin repair and renew itself, ensuring you wake up with a fresh, glowing complexion.
Here are 5 common nighttime skincare mistakes to avoid, plus tips to maximize your nightly glow routine:
1. Skipping the Nightly Cleanse
I get it—it’s been a long day, you’re exhausted, and the last thing you want to do is wash your face. But, trust me, skipping this step is doing your skin no favors. Throughout the day, dirt, makeup, and pollution build up on your skin, clogging pores and accelerating aging. Not cleansing at night allows all that grime to sit on your skin, leading to breakouts and dullness.
Glow Tip: Try keeping your cleanser by your sink or even in the shower for convenience. And for those extra-tired nights, micellar water is a quick and effective way to remove the day’s buildup without any excuses!
2. Forgetting Your Retinol or Bakuchiol
If you want smoother skin and fewer fine lines, don’t skip your retinol or bakuchiol.
I personally adore bakuchiol—a vegan retinol alternative that boosts skin cell turnover, offering all the anti-aging benefits without the irritation. Think of it as your secret weapon for repairing and rejuvenating your skin while you sleep.
Glow Tip: Always apply your retinol or bakuchiol before your moisturizer. And for an added boost, consider using a precision serum pump to ensure the perfect amount of product is applied every time. This makes sure your skin is getting consistent treatment without waste!
3. Neglecting Moisturizer at Night
Ever notice how your skin feels tight and a little parched by the end of the day? That’s because your skin’s hydration levels dip throughout the afternoon and evening. So, skipping your moisturizer at night is like depriving your skin of much-needed water while it’s working hard to repair itself.
Glow Tip: Opt for a moisturizer rich in ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients work wonders in restoring hydration and strengthening your skin’s barrier.
And if you want to go the extra mile, try adding a night mask as your last step to lock in all that goodness!
4. Using the Wrong Antioxidants
Antioxidants are amazing, but not all of them are created equal, especially when it comes to nighttime use. For example, vitamin C is best used in the morning when its main job is to neutralize free radicals from sun exposure and pollution. At night, you want to focus on antioxidants that help with skin repair and rejuvenation.
Glow Tip: Save your vitamin C for the daytime, and instead, try using antioxidants like vitamin B5, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), or postbiotics at night, which support skin recovery and boost radiance.
5. Over-Exfoliating
We all love that smooth feeling after exfoliating, but overdoing it can seriously damage your skin. Scrubbing too hard or too often can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it irritated and vulnerable.
Glow Tip-Aim to exfoliate just 2-3 times a week, and always opt for a gentle exfoliator. Your skin will thank you for the balance, and you’ll still enjoy that fresh-faced glow without the irritation.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be setting yourself up for success, giving your skin exactly what it needs to repair and glow while you sleep. Your mirror story should be one of confidence and radiance, and a smart nighttime skincare routine will help you wake up to a reflection that’s truly glowing.
Sending love and support,
Helena, Your Glow Bestie 🩷
Want to join our glowing community of midlife beauties-The Radiance Room, where i share glow tips, lives, Q&A and personalised skincare advice to help you reclaim your glow and confidence
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