While you were sleeping…

With so many FMCG companies introducing dozens of products at regular intervals, it becomes very difficult to judge what is necessary for skincare and what isn't. Night creams are one such product. Many feel that they are just a mere waste of money, but night creams can also help you in some ways.

There are two basic types of night creams available in the market. One meant for anti-ageing and another for deep moisturising. The anti ageing range of creams contains basic ingredients like retinol, glycolic acid, salicyclic acid and retinyl acetate. All of these ingredients help your skin to increase turnover, which can help diminish the appearance of age spots and fine lines and wrinkles. However, these ingredients can irritate our skin, increasing its exposure to UV rays.

While, deep moisturising creams have hydrating, deep nourishing and restorative effect on the skin. These are just like your usual moisturising creams with extra levels of emollients so that they are more moisturising. So if you use a good quality daily moisturiser, then you likely don’t need a separate night cream. 

 But choosing these creams is tricky. All the creams available in the market are designed keeping in mind the age, skin type and requirements of your skin. Not all night creams are designed for you. Every cream is formulated keeping your age in mind.

So first consider your age. In your 20s, creams with natural ingredients are more advisable. Choose a cream that contains natural ingredients like aloe vera, honey and other essential oils. People in 30s need more chemical active ingredients like amino acids, ceramides, retinol and others. They are known for their antioxidant properties which are well suited for that age group. When in 40s, go for creams containing peptides, soy extracts and vitamins. Your night cream should be able to fight puffiness, wrinkles and pigmentation.

Then the next important thing to be considered is your skin type. If you have a dry skin texture, opt for a cream that contains maximum moisture. Glycerin-based creams are ideal. Creams that contain avocado, almond oil and shea butter are great for this skin type. For oily skin opt for an oil-free cream, it will not trigger acne or rashes. People with sensitive skin should use a night cream which contains lightweight formula. Natural ingredients like neem, cucumber, tea tree and aloe vera creams are your best bet.

To reap the best benefits out of your night cream, first cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser. Then apply the night cream in gentle, upward strokes in circular motion. Avoid the area around your eyes, but cover the area around your neck. And most importantly, apply it half-an-hour before you go to bed