What Your Skin Needs at Night | The Expert Night Time Routine
Your skin doesn’t switch off at night- in fact, it becomes more active. As you rest, your skin enters a natural repair and regeneration cycle, making a targeted evening skincare routine essential for long-term skin health and radiance.
Why a Night Time Skincare Routine Is Essential
Our skin is governed by circadian rhythms- 24-hour biological cycles that influence how skin cells behave. During the day, your skin is focused on protection, building antioxidant defences against UV rays, blue light, pollution and temperature changes.
At night, this rhythm shifts into repair mode. Cellular activity increases, blood flow improves, and your skin becomes more permeable- making it especially receptive to active ingredients. Fibroblasts (collagen-producing cells) and keratinocyte turnover also accelerate, renewing the skin from within. However, the skin’s pH rises slightly overnight, which can lead to increased dehydration and sensitivity.
Dr Anita Sturnham explains:
"Night time is the rest and repair window for every cell in the body – and the skin is no exception. Supporting these natural rhythms with well-chosen skincare can enhance overnight recovery and maintain skin health."
The Ideal Evening Skincare Routine: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cleanse Thoroughly
Begin your PM skincare routine with a cleanser that removes SPF, makeup and daily impurities without disrupting the barrier.
Recommended: Decree Deep Cleanse – a clarifying blend of fruit acids and detoxifying clays to refresh and rebalance.
Step 2: Apply Active Serums
At night, your skin is most receptive to active ingredients. This is the ideal time for serums that target pigmentation, fine lines, dullness or congestion. Look for retinoids, peptides, stem cells, alpha arbutin and resveratrol.
Recommended: Decree Treat Tincture – a stabilised, third-generation retinoid with hydration support.
Step 3: Lock in Hydration
Finish with a nourishing moisturiser to combat overnight moisture loss and strengthen the skin barrier.
Recommended: Decree Peptide Emollient Veil + – rich in squalane, vitamin E and peptides for overnight comfort and repair.
Why Layering Matters in Your PM Routine
Correct layering ensures that each product can work effectively without interference. The optimal night time skincare routine order is:
- Cleanser
- Toner or essence (optional)
- Serum
- Moisturiser
Let each product absorb before moving to the next, and avoid layering too many actives – especially with retinoids- to prevent irritation.
Evening Skincare Routine Adjustments by Skin Type
Dry Skin
-
Choose hydrating serums and emollient-rich creams
-
Avoid nightly use of high-strength exfoliants or retinoids
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
-
Retinoids can help regulate oil production and reduce breakouts
-
Use non-comedogenic, barrier-friendly moisturisers
Sensitive Skin
-
Focus on soothing ingredients like panthenol, niacinamide and squalane
-
Introduce active ingredients slowly and choose gentle formulations
Combination Skin
-
Use balancing products that hydrate dry zones without overloading oilier areas
-
Consider targeted application if needed
Explore: Skincare for Combination Skin Types
Night Time Skincare Mistakes to Avoid
Even a well-intentioned routine can fall short if these common mistakes sneak in:
- Skipping your cleanse, even on makeup-free days
- Over-exfoliating or layering too many actives
- Using harsh ingredients that damage the skin barrier
- Applying rich products without time to absorb before sleep
Final Thoughts
A consistent and carefully layered evening skincare routine supports your skin’s natural ability to repair, renew and restore overnight. With targeted, clinically backed products and an understanding of your skin’s natural rhythms, you can wake up to skin that feels nourished, smooth and radiant.
Want to support your skin from morning to night? Read our guide to the perfect morning skincare routine to help your skin defend, hydrate and glow throughout the day.
