The best time to layer on skincare is before going to sleep.

Night-time is really the best time to practice your skincare routine. This is because your skin cells repair and regenerate in the evening, whether you’re asleep or not, and that’s when skincare products like a night cream or a sleeping mask would have the most impact.

But how different are the both of them? Well, night creams are typically thicker and heavier than your average moisturiser as they work to penetrate the skin over a night’s period. They could also contain targeted ingredients like retinol or ceramides for anti-ageing benefits.

Meanwhile, a sleeping mask is adapted from Korean skincare culture. They are used as the last step of your night routine to seal in your serums and creams, and allow for your skin to be intensely hydrated. Some sleeping masks we’ve seen even incorporate stress-relieving essential oils such as lavender or chamomile to really enhance the sensorial experience. Personally, we love it!

So, which one should you use? You can use either, both together or alternate them between days, depending on your skin type. If you’ve been using a night cream every day but still feel your skin could use extra hydration, double up with a sleeping mask every two to three times a week. What’s important is that you know your skin and change accordingly to how it reacts!

Our new favourites

Image: Sulwhasoo Malaysia

Sulwhasoo Overnight Vitalizing Mask, RM220

Staying true to its South-Korean roots, this sleeping mask by Sulwhasoo certainly delivers what it claims, which is supplying moisture and nutrients via its Nutritive Red Elixir and strengthening skin’s natural protective barrier. We look forward to its herbal aroma that facilitates a deep night’s sleep every time!

It cosmetics Confidence in your beauty sleep night cream
Image: It Cosmetics Malaysia

It Cosmetics Confidence in Your Beauty Sleep Night Cream, RM245

This night cream feels luxurious and envelopes your skin like a soothing hug thanks to its MemoryBounce Technology. Made from skin-loving ceramides and hyaluronic acid, expect moisturised and supple skin the next morning. Its calming lavender scent works like a charm as you’ll find yourself dozing off easily.

Chanel Le Lift Creme de Nuit

Chanel Le Lift Crème De Nuit, RM593

We’ve written about this product before but wanted to include it again in this list. If anti-ageing properties are what you seek, this lifting night cream is the perfect choice to apply on your face and neck to boost skin’s repairing activity while you sleep. Its exceptional formula is powered by botanical alfalfa concentrates (claimed as effective as retinol) while being gentle on the skin. With this, your skin’s overall health is improved night after night!

Header and feautred image: Unsplash