We spend about one third of our time on this earth asleep.  Taking care of the skin at night is an important part of an overall healthy skincare regimen.  Here are some nighttime skincare tips that may help the way your skin looks and feels during the day.

During the night, our body and minds are resting and this is the time the body uses to repair and replenish.  While we sleep, our bodies are constantly producing new skin cells and calling on resources that the body has stored.  It is important to consume enough water throughout the day and before bedtime, as this is a time when the body is losing a lot of water through the skin.  It is also, however, the best time for active ingredients to be absorbed by the skin so it is a good time to take more aggressive steps to prevent aging.

Before going to sleep a, a night treatment regimen will keep the skin in better condition and help prevent aging.  Star off by cleansing the skin with a facial cleanser, followed by a toner if you feel that you need deeper cleaning.  The cleanser will remove oil, dirt, and various environmental pollutants.  A toner will help remove excess remnants stirred up by the cleansing process.  Exfoliating is important depending on your skin type.  If your skin is on the oily side, you may want to exfoliate 3 to 4 times per week.  If you skin is dry or sensitive, 1 or 2 times per week should suffice.  This is often more useful if done prior to shaving so you may want to keep this step in the shaving process but it is up to you.

After completely cleansing the skin, the moisturizing step is where some differences are going to take place for nighttime care.  A moisturizer that is rich in nutrients and high in anti-aging ingredients can help preserve the smoothness of the skin and prevent the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  Look for Glycolic Acid, an alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane, which removes the top layers of skin and helps open clogged pores.  If you skin is oily, a gel or serum may work best.  If you have dry skin, a moisturizer (lotion or cream) would be appropriate.  You may notice a bit of stinging when applied as a result of the AHA but it should subside within seconds.