I have a deep love for skincare and an ongoing obsession with achieving glowing, youthful skin. It’s likely genetic—my mother’s just as devoted—so I’m constantly trying new products. Over the past few months I’ve refined a consistent evening routine. After sharing an updated morning routine recently, it felt only fair to share my current nighttime regimen.
Is it a lot of steps? Yes. Do you need every single product? Definitely not. Still, this nightly ritual is something I genuinely enjoy. It’s not time-consuming—usually around 10 minutes, and that includes brushing my retainers.
My Current Nighttime Skincare Routine:
1. Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Oil Cleanser. This oil cleanser removes makeup and impurities effortlessly, including heavy eye makeup, thanks to nourishing oleic acid and omegas. It rinses clean with water—no washcloth or cotton pads needed—so it’s my first step in a double cleanse.
2. Tatcha The Rice Polish Foaming Enzyme Powder (Calming). I use this as my second cleanse. Mixed with water it creates a gentle foam that exfoliates without irritating sensitive skin. Since adding it to my routine, my skin texture has improved and persistent blackheads on my chin and nose are better controlled. It comes in several formulations to suit different skin types.
3. Avène Eau Thermal Thermal Spring Water. I don’t use traditional toners, but spritzing thermal spring water helps balance and soothe my skin after cleansing. Toner’s basic role includes helping restore skin pH after rinsing with tap water, and a simple mist like this feels refreshing and softens my skin. I also use a small bottle on long flights for a quick refresh.
4. Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. Thirst Quenching Serum. This hydrating serum—based on grape water, hyaluronic acid, and olive squalane—has prevented winter flaking and gives immediate soothing and plumping. It absorbs quickly so moisturizers layer smoothly. I use two pumps morning and night.
5. True Botanicals Antioxidant Booster. This antioxidant powder mixes into serums. I add a shake to my hydrating serum for a brightening, evening effect that enhances radiance. The formula is concentrated, so a little lasts a long time.
I usually let the serum and booster absorb while I brush my teeth, then follow with a rich moisturizer.
6. Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2. This nourishing cream replenishes essential lipids and provides deep hydration. It has minimal fragrance, sinks in well, and leaves my skin bouncy and radiant by morning. It’s quite rich—ideal for nighttime or drier skin types. Recently I’ve also been trying Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream, which is lighter and similarly effective; it may be a good lower-cost alternative if it continues to perform well for me.
7. Biossance Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel. My eye area is sensitive, and this fast-absorbing gel hydrates without irritation. It’s gentle enough for lids and works well as daily hydration. For specific concerns like fine lines or brightening, I supplement with targeted eye masks weekly, and use a de-puffing mask when I’m sleep-deprived.
8. Mother Dirt AO+ Mist. I added this probiotic mist after it helped calm a bad rash last winter. I find it balancing and soothing; I haven’t had a major skin freakout since I started using it. I spritz it as the final step in my routine.
9. LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask. This intensely moisturizing lip mask goes on like a balm before bed and leaves my lips silky smooth by morning. I keep it on my bedside table for nightly use.
Bonus: Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial. I use this exfoliating mask about once a week. Its AHAs and BHAs give excellent exfoliation and leave skin exceptionally soft. On nights I use Babyfacial I skip the rice powder, antioxidant booster, and the regular hydrating serum to avoid over-exfoliation. My usual order on mask nights is: oil cleanse, apply Babyfacial for the recommended time, rinse, spritz thermal water, then apply a generous layer of Triple Lipid. The mask includes a small marula oil that can be used after rinsing if you want extra nourishment.
Disclaimer: I have combination skin that leans toward dry, with sensitivity and unpredictable tendencies. What works for me may not work for you. I recommend purchasing from retailers with good return policies in case you need to test products and decide they aren’t right for your skin.