Do You Really Need Day and Night Moisturizers? Here’s the Answer You’ve Been Looking For

What’s the Difference Between Day and Night Moisturizer?

Each skincare product has a different role and vital function, so you may need more than one type of moisturizer, depending on your needs. According to healthcare executive and skincare expert Liia Ramachandra, PharmD., PhD., day moisturizers are typically more lightweight and non-comedogenic, whereas nighttime calls for a more nourishing moisturizer. 

“During the day you need a lighter, more hydrating treatment that will not clog your pores and leave your skin feeling fresh and soft,” says Dr. Ramachandra. “During the night, your cells regenerate faster and this is the time to 'infuse' all the nourishment deep into your skin. Go for a lighter skincare during the day and for a much 'heavier' and 'nourishing/rejuvenating' during the night,” she says. 

Daytime moisturizers may also include SPF, which you don’t need to wear at night. You can choose a daytime moisturizer to suit other skin concerns as well, like having a tinted quality to smooth out your complexion without having to wear makeup.

Do I Really Need a Different Moisturizer for Day and Night?

It depends on your skin concerns. According to Dr. Ramachandra, if you have acne, you may want to stick with the same moisturizer morning and evening to get your acne under control without introducing excess products to your routine. If you have concerns, reach out to your dermatologist. If you’re on a prescription acne medication, you may also need to moisturize more often, depending on how drying the medication’s ingredients are.

Dr. Ramachandra recommends for people with normal skin types to use an “anti-inflammatory hemp seed moisturizer during the day and a rejuvenating one at night.” A rejuvenating moisturizer would include anti-aging ingredients, such as retinol, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid—again, depending on your unique needs. These medical-grade ingredients penetrate better at night because, as Dr. Ramachandra explained above, “your cells regenerate faster and this is the time to 'infuse' all the nourishment deep into your skin.”

Additionally, she says, if you “live in a humid and warm climate, you can use the same morning and evening and if that moisturizer works for you, you are definitely OK to use the same morning and evening.”

If You Only Need One, Here Are Our Expert-Approved Picks:

1. Best Splurge:

SKINCEUTICALS Triple Lipid Restore

This versatile moisturizer works to restore the skin’s natural barrier, and is made up of a unique blend of 2% pure ceramides and 2% fatty acids. It works to erase fine lines, restore balance to the skin, and keep it hydrated all day (and night) long. It’s lightweight enough that it can be worn under makeup, but nourishing enough that it can deeply hydrate as you sleep.

2. Best for Dry Skin:

TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream

If you have routinely dry skin, a moisturizer specifically formulated for the day time may be too light for you. This day and night cream by TATCHA is slightly heavier than the average day cream and can be used twice per day. Since it includes a blend of Okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid, it works to replenish ceramides, therefore restoring the skin’s natural moisture reserve, so you’ll see noticeably less dry and flaky skin within the first two weeks of use.

3. Best for Fine Lines and Wrinkles:

SHISEIDO Uplifting and Firming Cream

This cream has a patented blend of olive root, tea, and angelica root extracts to revitalize skin and help it appear more plump over time. Because it also includes antioxidants, it’s perfect for wearing in the morning before you head outside (pro tip: antioxidants help protect your skin from pollutants such as CO2 emissions and UV rays). But this cream is also nutrient-rich enough to get to work overnight with the inclusion of benibana flower, which helps strengthen the skin’s outermost layer.

4. Best for All Skin Types:

CERAVE Daily Moisturizing Lotion

This no-frills drugstore buy is a cult-classic for a reason: It’s affordable and delivers real, tangible results. Because this moisturizer is oil-free, it won’t clog pores. And since it’s also formulated with hyaluronic acid, it delivers all-day hydration and helps restore skin cells overnight if you use it as a night cream. If you don’t have any major skin concerns, this moisturizer is definitely the one to reach for.

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