Top 4 Ways to Maximize your Night Cream's Effects

How to get the most out of that little jar on your vanity

Those of you who are using night cream probably share similar reasons for using it. You want the anti-aging benefits. Mom did it, so now you do too. A dermatologist quoted in a magazine struck fear into your heart... 

Regardless of the reasons why you're using nightcream, here are the top 4 ways to maximize the intended effect of your night cream. 

1. Layer with compatible products. 

This is another pretty extensive topic, but there are some products with ingredients that will cancel out the benefits of products with other kinds of ingredients. 

Retinol/retinyl palmitate and either AHAs (alpha hydroxyl acids), BHAs (beta hydroxyl acids), and/or UV light:  can cause severe skin irritation, dryness, and even burning.

Cream cleansers or oils that contain mineral oil, as these can leave a residue that prevents active ingredients from penetrating the deep layers of the skin.

Vitamin C and AHAs (alpha hydroxyl acids), BHAs (beta hydroxyl acids: these acids lower the pH of Vitamin C and decreasing its antioxidant power.

2. Apply to clean skin. 

We mean clean. If you regularly wear a full face of makeup, make sure you thoroughly cleanse your face. Ensuring that all residue has been removed will help your skin absorb product better. It will also prevent against clogged pores or acne, leading you to blame the night cream instead of the real culprit. 

3. Store your skincare properly. 

All of your fancier creams and other skincare products with a lot of active ingredients should be stored in a cool, dry place, and out of sunlight. While you don't need to go out and get a skincare refrigerator, consider making storage space outside of your bathroom. This is where heat from steamy showers and extra moisture accumulate, both of which are no-no's for keeping product fresh. 

4. Massage your face. 

Sit around and massage your product into your face to help ensure product is absorbed, instead of immediately hopping face-down into bed. Gentle facial massage helps stimulate circulation and will ensure maximum absorption.