Day & Night Moisturizers: Do you really need both or is it all just hype?
It’s not uncommon to wonder if there’s really a need for a separate day and night moisturizer. After all, this is really just a gimmick to get you to buy more products, right? Wrong. There are actually several differences between the two, and each has its own benefits and uses.
At AVYA we are passionate about creating products for every skin tone and skin type. Our formulations combine the latest advances in skincare technology balanced with ancient Ayurvedic ingredients to bring you products that are nourishing, healing, and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. We understand the science of skincare as well as the ability of great skincare to transform the human spirit through confidence and joy. In this article we want to share some tips for deciding whether or not using a separate moisturizing product for each of your day and night routines is right for you.
Differences Between Day & Night Moisturizers
As mentioned, there are several differences between a day moisturizer and night moisturizer.
Day moisturizers tend to be lighter in feel and they absorb into the skin easily. A good day cream won’t feel greasy or leave residue on the skin once absorbed so as not to interfere with makeup application. They are designed to protect your skin against environmental exposures such as sun damage and pollution. They may also include ingredients designed to make your skin look firmer and more energized.
Night creams tend to be thicker and take longer to absorb. They don’t include any sun protection and typically don’t protect against other environmental stressors. During sleep, our skin is actually far more active than we realize. This is a time for repair, regeneration, and restoration. A good night cream will boost these processes, helping to repair age-related damage and giving us an extra dose of moisture.
It’s important to use both day and night moisturizers in order to reap the benefits of both formulas. This offers a beneficial balance between protection and restoration.
What to Look for in a Day Moisturizer
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a day cream. The best day moisturizer is advertised as weightless or quickly absorbed. The best face moisturizer for day time use should include hydrating ingredients to keep your skin moisturized which will help prevent excess oil production. A moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid, like AVYA’s Hydroveda moisturizer, is lightweight and perfect for daily use. Snow mushroom makes this ultra-hydrating formula perfect for maintaining elasticity while hyaluronic acid locks in moisture and helps smooth your skin’s texture making it the perfect foundation for your pre-makeup routine.
Ingredients like green chai extract are helpful for fighting the effects of free radicals and minimizing the effects of aging without making your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Your daily morning routine should always include sun protection. According to AVYA’s co-founder, Dr. Tanuj Nakra, “Sun damage is the number one cause of skin irritation and other skin issues, followed by diet. Wearing a clean sunscreen daily is just as important as maintaining a healthy diet.” When searching for the perfect day moisturizer, look for formulas that include a broad spectrum SPF like our Hydroveda Sheer Tinted Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 40.
What to Look for in a Night Moisturizer
The best night moisturizer should be a thick, rich formula that may take several hours to completely absorb. At night is the time you want to include ingredients designed to promote collagen production, and Vitamin A to help with cell turnover.
The best night cream should include Vitamin A, also known as retinol, to increase cell regeneration which helps heal any damage that may have occurred during the day. You want the highest concentration of this ingredient in your night cream because it can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage if used in the daytime. Look for amino acids like goji berry extract to help even out skin tone as you sleep.
General Moisturizer Considerations
There are some ingredients that are helpful in both day and night cream formulas. We include the following three botanical extracts in each of our formulas:
- Neem — an herb that reduces inflammation and helps protect skin
- Peony — a floral extract with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- Turmeric — an antioxidant that revives skin and helps to boost its natural glow
Be careful to avoid toxins and harmful skincare ingredients such as parabens and petroleum products. Instead, look for creams formulated with botanical extracts and ayurvedic ingredients for a healthier approach.