Simple Night Skincare Routine: Tips From a Dermatologist

If you’re overwhelmed by all the skincare products, steps, and trends, you’re not alone. The good news? A simple night skincare routine can be just as effective and easier to stick with.

In this article, we’re sharing expert advice from Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery. She walks us through evening skincare routine steps that can help you have healthy skin without overcomplicating your evenings. Whether you're a beginner or just looking to simplify, these tips will help you build a routine that actually works.

Why is a simple night skincare routine important?

A simple night skincare routine is important because it’s easier to maintain, and using fewer products often means less irritation, explains Dr. Kopelman. She encourages her patients to keep things straightforward, noting that consistency matters more than having a lengthy regimen. The goal isn’t to do more, but to use the right products regularly.

A Simple Skincare Routine: Step-By-Step

The simplest skincare routine is cleansing and moisturizing. For most people, this is all you need to keep your skin clean and hydrated, especially if you’re using products suited to your skin type. You can also add other helpful steps like toner, eye cream, or face oil, depending on your skin concerns and preferences.

1. Cleanse face

Always start your evening skincare routine with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and debris. Dr. Kopelman recommends avoiding anything that leaves your skin feeling tight, which can signal that it’s too harsh. 

A sulfate-free formula that supports your skin’s barrier and pH balance is ideal because it gently cleanses without stripping natural oils needed for healthy, hydrated skin. 

2. Use toner

It isn’t a must, but toner can be helpful if you enjoy the refreshing feel or want to incorporate extra ingredients like niacinamide (vitamin B3) or gentle exfoliating acids. “Use it if it works for you,” says Dr. Kopelman, “but don’t feel pressured because it’s not essential.”

If you’re looking for a gentle toner, Oakwell Cosmetics Cucumber & Aloe Toner Mist is a great option. It’s made with soothing ingredients like cucumber, aloe vera, and hops. It’s also alcohol-free and helps hydrate, nourish, and refresh the skin without stripping or disrupting your moisture barrier.

3. Moisturize

Moisturizing is non-negotiable, says Dr. Kopelman. A simple moisturizer with barrier-supporting ingredients, such as ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, provides a great base for healthy skin. For dry skin, a cream-based formula is often the best choice, while those with oily or acne-prone skin usually benefit more from a lightweight gel moisturizer. 

Applying moisturizer to both your face and neck helps keep these areas hydrated and can prevent dryness and early signs of aging. Applying moisturizer while your skin is slightly damp can also help lock in extra hydration.

4. Apply eye cream

This step for your simple night skincare routine is optional, explains Dr. Kopelman. Eye creams can help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines, especially when they contain ingredients such as caffeine or peptides. However, your regular face moisturizer can usually do the job. 

When applying eye cream, use your ring finger to gently pat the product around the orbital bone, avoiding direct contact with your eyes.

5. Use face oil

Face oil can lock in moisture and add glow, particularly for dry or mature skin. But Dr. Kopelman notes that this isn’t necessary for everyone. People with acne-prone skin should be cautious because heavier oils can clog pores.

If you decide to use a face oil, choose one that suits your skin type and apply it after moisturizer to help seal in hydration. If you have a beard, you may also want to consider using hair or beard oil as part of your nighttime skincare routine. We love Oakwell Cosmetics Hop-Infused Oil for hydrating the beard and skin underneath. 

Extra Tips for Keeping A Simple Evening Routine 

Dr. Kopelman shares the following tips for a simple night skincare routine:

• Double cleanse - This is helpful at night if you wear makeup, sunscreen, or live in a polluted area. The first wash removes buildup, and the second actually cleans your skin. If you don’t wear much on your face, a single gentle cleanse is enough.
• Exfoliate - Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, smooth texture, and brighten your complexion. However, over-exfoliating can cause irritation. Once or twice a week is enough for most skin types. Chemical exfoliants like lactic or salicylic acid are gentler than physical scrubs.
• Listen to your skin - If your skin stings, flakes, breaks out, or feels unusually tight, something isn’t right. This is a sign to simplify your routine and give your skin time to reset before adding anything new.
• Stay consistent - Skincare results don’t happen overnight. Stick to a simple routine daily to give your skin the stability and support it needs to improve and thrive. This will do more for your skin than constantly changing up your routine and products. 

Choosing the Best Products for Your Evening Skincare Routine

Start with the essentials: a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer suited for your skin type. From there, you can decide if you also need a toner, face oil, or eye cream based on your personal skin concerns and goals. 

Look for ingredients backed by dermatologists and avoid products with added fragrance or alcohol if you’re sensitive. Some of the best dermatologist-recommended ingredients for face products are Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide (vitamin B3). 

Glycolic Acid promotes natural glow, improves skin tone, and smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and is often found in face washes and serums. Niacinamide calms skin irritation, balances hydration and oil levels, and is commonly found in serums and creams.

Simple Night Skincare Routine: FAQs

Make the most of your evening skincare routine with answers to common questions below.

Should I wash my face in the shower or before I sleep?

If you shower before bed, you can wash your face then. Dr. Kopelman explains that if you don't shower at night, you should still wash your face before bed to remove any residue or pollutants from the day. 

How long before bed should you do skincare?

Dr. Kopelman recommends doing skincare about 15 to 30 minutes before bed. This gives your products time to dry, so they don’t get wiped off on your pillow case. 

What happens if I don't do my skincare for one night?

If you skip your skincare routine for one night, Dr. Kopelman assures it’s totally fine. You likely won’t notice any difference, so don’t worry. The key is being consistent over time rather than perfect every single day.

Simple Night Skincare Routine: Conclusion

A simple night skincare routine doesn’t just save you time. It can actually help improve and maintain skin health. By focusing on what your skin truly needs and staying consistent, you’re giving it the best chance to look and feel its best.