How to Hydrate Skin Overnight for Soft, Glowing Skin

Waking up with dry, flaky skin can be frustrating, but we have solutions. Below, we’ll discuss how to hydrate skin overnight with science-backed tips and practical home remedies.

To naturally moisturize your skin overnight, drink plenty of water, use moisturizing skincare products, and wear loose clothing to bed. “While your skin can feel softer and look plumper when you wake up, it’s also important to consistently hydrate your skin over a few days or weeks to see the best results,” says Maureen Gaspard, a Certified Aesthetician and the Director of Esthetics at Seaside Skin Care. 

Read on to learn how to implement strategies for hydrated, radiant, and healthy skin.

Take lukewarm showers and baths

According to Dr. Emily McKenzie, a dermatologist, hot showers can cause dry, itchy skin. Hot water can strip your skin’s natural oils, which helps keep it hydrated. Instead, opt for lukewarm showers and baths. 

While showering daily is standard, you should limit your baths. A five- to ten-minute cleansing bath is okay if you prefer bathing daily. However, limiting longer soaking baths to once or twice a week is best to prevent your skin from drying out.

To hydrate your skin while taking a bath, we recommend trying Oakwell Cosmetics Herbal Beer Bath Tea. It’s made with a nourishing blend of natural ingredients, including eucalyptus, which strengthens your skin’s natural moisture barrier and reduces dry, flaky skin. Simply place the tea bag into your bath water, and enjoy a relaxing and nourishing soak.

Exfoliate your skin

Exfoliating your skin removes dead skin cells that may cause your skin to look and feel dry. It can also help your skin better absorb moisturizing products.

However, the American Academy of Dermatology advises against over-exfoliating, which can irritate your skin. Start with one time weekly and see how your skin reacts. Generally, you shouldn’t exfoliate more than three times weekly.

You can apply an exfoliating facial cleanser and body soap to wet skin in small circular motions. We love Oakwell Cosmetics Brown Ale & Oats Beer Soap for exfoliation. It’s topped with oats for exfoliation and made with all-natural ingredients, including coconut, castor, and olive oil for hydration.

Drink water before bed

“Dehydration can make your skin appear dull and tight, and staying hydrated supports overall skin health,” says Gaspard. “While hydrating skincare products are essential, so is internal hydration.”

The recommended daily water intake for adults is 9 to 13 cups, and Gaspard suggests drinking a glass of water before bed. Limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption can also help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. 

Use a humidifier in your bedroom

“Dry indoor air can strip moisture from your skin while you sleep,” explains Gaspard. “A humidifier can help maintain an optimal moisture balance where you sleep, preventing dehydration overnight.”

There are two main types of humidifiers: warm-mist and cool-mist. Warm-mist humidifiers heat water that turns into steam and releases into the air. Cool-mist humidifiers release room-temperature water into the air. 

Many people prefer warm-mist humidifiers as they’re often more affordable and can emit water with fewer bacteria and impurities due to the boiling process. However, cool mist humidifiers can be safer, especially around children and pets, and more energy efficient.

Implement a moisturizing skincare routine

Gaspard and Dr. Anshul Gambhir, M.D. and Owner of Gambhir Cosmetic Medicine, explain that your skincare routine is essential for hydrating your skin overnight. However, consistency is key for long-term hydration.

The following products and ingredients can be helpful for moisturizing and preventing dry skin:

• Hyaluronic Acid - Before using moisturizer, you can apply hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring gel-like substance that locks in moisture. You might also find hyaluronic acid in skincare products, including face washes and moisturizers.
• A nourishing night cream - Use a night cream rich in ceramides, shea butter, and fatty acids to help strengthen your skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss.
• A hydrating face mask - Your skin goes into repair mode overnight, so it’s often more receptive to active ingredients. An overnight hydrating face mask is designed to lock in moisture and deeply hydrate the skin while you sleep.
• Body moisturizer - Don’t forget about hydrating your body, too! We love Oakwell Cosmetics Beer Body Lotion because it has shea butter and coconut oil, which moisturize the skin, leaving it feeling soft.

Wear loose clothing to bed

“While tight-fitting clothes can rub against your skin and absorb hydrating products, loose clothing allows moisturizers to stay on your skin and soak in,” says Gambhir. “You might also wear clothes made from breathable, softer fabrics like cotton that absorb less product.”

“If you want to maximize the effectiveness of your hydrating skincare products, let them fully absorb into your skin before getting dressed."

Similarly, consider using a silk pillowcase, which doesn’t absorb as much face product as traditional pillowcases.

How to Hydrate Skin Overnight: Conclusion

We hope you found this article helpful and feel hopeful about hydrating your skin overnight. While hydrating techniques like drinking plenty of water, using a humidifier, and implementing an effective skincare routine are helpful, consistency is essential for optimal, long-term results.