The Best Night Creams

Vanicream Moisturizing Cream

A little goes a long way when it comes to this night cream by Vanicream. You’ll receive one pound of thick, non-greasy, and fragrance-free cream. It’s also free of the common irritants usually found in your average skincare products. This face cream is meant to restore a normal level of moisture to your skin barrier and helps to soothe any redness or itchiness. Plus, we love that this comes in a super convenient pump form. This night cream could easily become your new go-to.

Pros:

• Generous size
• Safe for sensitive skin
• Awarded a seal of acceptance by the National Eczema Association

Cons:

• If you prefer thin creams then you may want to pass on this one

SeoulCeuticals Snail Repair Cream

Our runner-up night cream contains an ingredient from snails that offers some pretty powerful benefits. And don’t worry, the little guys are treated ethically in a cruelty-free environment. This unique night cream produces brighter and healthier skin by helping to minimize wrinkles, dark spots, and dullness in just a few weeks of consistent application. It’s also anti-microbial and contains other rejuvenating elements like Vitamin E, organic aloe, and jojoba oil. This would be an amazing addition to any bathroom cabinet.

Pros:

• Suitable for all skin types
• 97% naturally derived ingredients
• Great customer service

Cons:

• Although the snail extract is natural, be sure to test on a small patch of skin first

Olay Regenerist Moisturizer

It’s time to ditch the lazy gift card idea and opt for something your loved one will actually appreciate. This formula contains retinol to reduce fine lines by increasing collagen and can also improve discoloration by stimulating the production of new blood vessels. With a silky and smooth application, this night cream absorbs quickly so you won’t be left with any greasy film on your skin or pillowcase. Any skincare enthusiast would love to be gifted this high-quality night cream.

Pros:

• Fragrance-free
• Includes one week sample of Regenerist Whip Facial Moisturizer
• Made with amino peptides and Vitamin B3

Cons:

• A bit pricier than other night creams

Body Merry Breakthrough Night Cream

This night cream by Body Merry is 100% vegan and made in the USA. It’s packed with rich, natural ingredients like shea butter, green tea, sunflower oil, and aloe to nourish your skin and eliminate free radicals. This cream is also suitable for virtually every skin type and can double as an excellent moisturizing hand cream. Made with a gentle and cruelty-free formula, this night cream uses nature’s best resources to renew your skin – all while you’re sound asleep.

Pros:

• Made with organic ingredients
• Contains peptides and 5% niacinamide
• Great value for the price

Cons:

• The lack of preservatives means it will have a shorter shelf life

Era Organics Tea Tree Oil Cream

If you struggle with stubborn pimples but still want the benefits of a quality night cream, this moisturizer could do the trick. Created to soothe and nourish acne-prone skin, this cream was made with tea tree oil. This powerful compound is said to have anti-inflammatory properties and may effectively fight acne-causing bacteria. You’ll also benefit from ingredients like salicylic acid, calming aloe vera, and skin-firming dandelion root. Boost your skin’s ability to heal and restore itself with this gentle night cream.

Pros:

• Non-toxic and plant-based formula
• Can be used as either a day or night cream

Cons:

• Although not over-powering, the tea tree scent is noticeable, so keep this in mind when purchasing

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between a night cream and a day cream?

The short answer is yes. Day creams usually have SPF to protect your skin from the sun. They’re also usually free of ingredients that should not be exposed to constant sunlight. Day creams are typically thinner as well, so you can wear them under makeup.

On the other hand, night creams are typically a bit thicker and are made with ingredients that do best when not exposed to the sun, like retinol and AHAs. They also typically contain ingredients that replenish the skin’s moisture. It’s important to note that some moisturizers can double as night and day creams, so it’s best to look for night/day differentiating ingredients to best suit your skincare needs.

When should I apply my night cream?

If you have a set skincare routine, we applaud you. Many are unaware that sequence does matter if you want to get the best out of your products. Your moisturizer or night cream should always come last in the line-up to maximize your results. Generally, the recommended order should be your cleanser first, then a toner, any treatments and serums, and finally lock everything in with your night cream. But remember, too many steps and harsh products can cause further irritation. Be sure to pay attention to your skin’s response and keep things simple whenever possible.