Nighttime skincare routine that is a must: Goodbye tired, dull skin, wake up to healthier, glowing skin

Your nighttime skincare routine is as crucial as your daytime one. Here is a guide on how to wake up to beautifully glowing skin.

Let's admit it, ladies! After a hectic day, all we dream of is just thwarting ourselves on our beds. But trust us, that is one of the biggest skincare mistakes that we are indulging in. Following a proper nighttime skincare routine is a must if you want to wake up with a natural glow.

Nighttime skincare routine to treat tired, dull skin, wake up to healthier, glowing skin (Pexels)

By Shweta Pandey

Shweta Pandey is a Senior Content Writer at Hindustan Times, with over 12 years of experience in beauty and wellness journalism, specialising in makeup, skincare, and hair care.

She began her professional writing journey in 2011, entering the evolving world of digital lifestyle journalism as beauty and wellness content rapidly transformed in India. Over the years, she has worked with reputed digital media houses like India Today, the Times of India and Skymet Weather, steadily building credibility through well-researched features, product reviews, and trend analyses. Her career reflects consistent growth, moving from content contributor to senior writer. She now plays a key role in shaping editorial strategy, social media content, and ensuring high-quality, reader-focused content that aligns with evolving audience needs.

Shweta’s core expertise spans makeup, skincare, hair care, and holistic health and fitness. She specialises in in-depth beauty product reviews, ingredient analysis, skincare routines, and evidence-based wellness advice. Known for her analytical and data-driven approach, she relies on verified sources, dermatological insights, and expert consultations to ensure credibility. Her field experience includes interviewing Bollywood celebrities, beauty and makeup professionals, tracking consumer trends, and simplifying the top picks.

Shweta holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, Advertising, and Journalism and has done Bachelor’s in Commerce from Delhi University. She believes in delivering reader-first insights that empower informed decisions while maintaining transparency, credibility, and trust.

Beyond her writing desk, Shweta enjoys exploring new destinations, experimenting in the kitchen with delightful recipes, and staying in tune with the latest beauty and wellness trends.

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“Just like daytime skincare, nighttime also holds a lot of importance,” dermatologist Dr Shareefa Chause of Mumbai-based Dr Shareefa Skin care Clinic, tells HT Lifestyle.

Giving your skin consistent care at night can help you with the flawless skin that you have always dreamed of. Understand that nighttime skincare is equally important and shouldn’t be missed at any cost.

“Your skin tends to repair and renew itself at night. It is the ideal time to nourish and treat your skin,” she adds. The right skincare before hitting the bed can boost hydration, reduce signs of ageing, and improve overall skin health. Dr Shareefa further adds that it is imperative to speak to the doctor and come up with an appropriate routine as per your requirements.

Nighttime skincare tips for glowing skin

1. Cleansing is necessary: Cleaning your skin is the first and most important part of the nighttime skincare routine. It is necessary to start by removing all makeup, dirt, and oil that have built up during the day. Opt for a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type to keep pores clean and prevent breakouts. Dr. Shareefa recommends not to rub the skin too hard; be gentle.
2. Use a toner: Are you aware that a toner can help balance your skin’s pH and tighten pores? Choose a toner as per your skin types and skin issues. Use an alcohol-free toner with soothing ingredients like rose water or green tea. Apply toner on a cotton swab and pat on your skin. This removes excess oil and removes any makeup or pollution residue from your skin. You can also include a toner spray to your skincare routine.
3. Say YES to serum: Dr. Shareefa states that night is the best time to use serums that are loaded with active ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide and retinoids. These ingredients target concerns like pigmentation, dryness, and fine lines, and enhance your skin texture. However, it's recommended that you use the serum as per your skin type. Don’t just blindly use any products just because they are promoted on social media or come in fancy packaging.
4. Use a moisturiser or night cream: Don't skip a moisturiser or a night cream, come what may! A nourishing moisturiser or a night cream enhances the hydration of the skin. Try to choose moisturisers or night creams with ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, or aloe vera, recommends Dr Shareefa.
5. Eye cream: Under eye creams or patches are no less than a magic wand for your skin. These eye creams helps combat puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Eye creams generally have thicker consistency for the delicate under-eye region. These eye creams also boost hydration and keep your under-eye area supple and soft.
6. Lip balm for soft lips: If you thought, nighttime skincare is only limited to your face, time to rethink! The skin of your lips are softer and tender as compared to your face, hence, it is important to sleep after applying a hydrating lip balm to keep your lips hydrated throughout the night.

So, the crux is, no matter what, don't skip your nighttime skincare ritual, be consistent and follow the routine religiously for optimal results.

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