Nighttime skincare routine

Best Nighttime skincare routine. Remove makeup and SPF. First, remove your makeup and SPF with an oil cleanser or micellar water (also known as double-cleansing). You'll want to steer clear of makeup wipes, as they can be irritating to the skin (plus, they're not environmentally sustainable). 

"All skin types can benefit from oil cleansing, as oil cleansers work by gently lifting off dirt, debris, and makeup, without harming the skin," says organic esthetician Katie Sobelman. Massage your oil cleanser onto dry skin, then add a bit of water to emulsify the formula and rinse clean.

If you're prone to breakouts, Sobelman recommends avoiding coconut oil. "The molecular size is quite large, which lends itself to pore clogging," she says. Instead, look for a product with squalene or jojoba oil. 

After your oil cleanses, it's time to move on to a formal face wash. "The oil cleanser removes buildup on the surface, allowing a water-based cleanser to easily cleanse the skin," Sobelman explains.

If you have dry skin, you'll want to opt for a hydrating cleanser. If you're acne-prone, you may benefit from a cleanser with AHAs or BHAs in them (think lactic acid, salicylic acid, etc.). For those with sensitive skin, look for something gentle and fragrance-free.

Eye creams aren't bogus—when used as a form of preventative care, they're beneficial because they provide the thin skin around your eyes with a targeted treatment. 

Some under-eye creams claim to brighten and reduce the appearance of dark circles, however, keeping that delicate area hydrated is what's most important, especially since our under-eye can go through the ringer with eye makeup removal.

When searching for a good eye cream, make sure to look for formulas that contain peptides. Peptides help to firm the skin, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and boost hydration. For every skin type, it is essential to use a moisturizer as the final step in your evening skincare routine, regardless of whether your skin is oily or acne-prone. According to Thornfeldt, it is recommended to use a "skin barrier-repairing moisturizer" to promote the health of your skin. In other words, choose a hydrating moisturizer that won't clog your pores.