So you’ve already got your skincare routine down pat, but did you include night creams as well? You’re probably thinking, great, just another product I don’t need. Not to sound too tita, but a night cream is good if you want to prevent premature skin aging.
You know what they say; prevention is better than cure. What better way to ensure you get youthful and plump skin than a night cream? With some advice from dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison, we’ve prepared a buying guide to serve as a little cheat sheet to acquaint you with night creams as well as our recommended products!
Quick List - Top Night Creams
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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From its namesake, it is a cream for nighttime use. They say that nighttime is where your skin gets maximum rest, so it is all the more ideal to apply skincare to allow your skin to soak in the product. It can contain ingredients not ideal for day use such as retinol, which can cause your skin to get sun damage.
The main difference between day and night cream is the lack of SPF. Day creams are geared to protect you from UV rays and the environment, and are much lighter in consistency, while night creams are heavier and aims to replace the loss of moisture during the day.
Night creams are often thought to be for those with mature skin, but it doesn’t hurt to start prevention early. It is useful for repairing your skin, boosting collagen production, and preventing signs of aging, so you can wake up to plumper, more moisturized skin.
Night creams are moisturizers that are applied at night to prevent transepidermal water loss from your skin. They contain emollients, humectants, and occlusives. They may also contain actives such as retinoids that target specific skin concerns like fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
To keep your skin moisturized while you sleep, it is good to incorporate a night cream into your skincare routine. Of course, there are a lot of factors to consider before getting a night cream. To know more about these factors, read through our buying guide below.
A night cream is excellent for restoring moisture that may have been lost during the day due to sun exposure or pollution. That is why you have to look for moisturizing ingredients to help hydrate your skin.
Ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and shea butter help hydrate your skin and allow it to retain moisture better. This is because your skin tends to produce less sebum at night, making you more susceptible to losing hydration.
Night creams should have the right balance of occlusives, humectants, and emollients. Humectants such as glycerin attract and bind water. They also aid in skin barrier recovery. Occlusives effectively seal moisture in the skin such as dimethicones and shea butter.
Emollients are used for their ability to soften and smoothen the skin and impart a silky feel. Examples are low molecular weight hydrocarbons and dimethicones, cetyl or Cetearyl alcohol, cetylcaprylic/ capric triglyceride, grapeseed oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil.
Different skin types have different concerns, just because one product worked for your friend, does not mean it will work the same for you. Check your skin type to see what works best for you.
Even if you have oily skin, it is still important for you to moisturize. Not moisturizing your skin can actually make it oilier because your skin will produce more sebum to make up for the lack of hydration.
Water-based and oil-free products help moisturize skin without the added layer of grease, so you don’t wake up looking shiny. Check the product; make sure it contains ingredients beneficial for oily skin such as tea tree and salicylic acid, which helps regulate your skin’s oiliness.
Night creams in gel format are water-based, and they do not impart a greasy feeling so they are ideal for oily skin. Newer gel formulations may contain the humectant glycerin, the emollient dimethicone, or hyaluronic acid to aid in skin hydration.
An emulsion format can also be used because it spreads very easily, is water washable and less greasy. Emulsions contain humectants such as glycerin, propylene glycol, or polyethylene glycol (PEG) to prevent the product from drying out.
A night cream is ideal if you have dry skin, as it is more susceptible to signs of skin aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. It can provide that much-needed moisture for your skin and keep it hydrated, so you'd wake up with plump and younger-looking skin.
Look for hydrating ingredients such as coconut or almond oil, hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into the skin, and peptides to boost collagen production and prevent premature aging.
Dry skin types would benefit more from night creams with emollients like ceramides and humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Cream types are also less greasy, spread easily on the skin, and provide a protective film of oil that remains on the skin as an emollient, while the slow evaporation of the water phase provides a cooling effect. Look for ingredients that help with repairing the skin barrier such as ceramides, squalane, fatty acids, and niacinamide.
Those with sensitive skin will benefit more from night creams that do not contain fragrances, as it is a potential skin irritant, especially if it is synthetic.
Your skin will benefit more form lightweight and hypoallergenic formulas that do not contain parabens, phthalates, or mineral oil, as these can cause itchiness and redness to your skin.
For sensitive skin, fragrance-free formulations are recommended to decrease the chances of skin irritation. Ceramides, squalane, fatty acids, niacinamide can help in maintaining the skin barrier while allantoin, Centella Asiatica, and green tea extract have soothing properties that are beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) such as gluconolactone and lactobionic acid can also be helpful because of their antioxidant as well as humectant properties.
Night cream is ideal for restoring moisture into aging skin, so it looks plumper and smoother. You can also benefit from richer and thicker creams to ensure the product seeps into your skin.
Look for anti-aging ingredients such as retinol, vitamin B5, and E to reduce the appearance of fine lines and keep skin soft, smooth, and healthy. Peptides are also beneficial as it increases the elasticity of the skin.
Mature skin types would benefit from night creams containing retinoids (retinol or retinal) and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) for antiaging, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.
Niacinamide can also help in repairing the skin barrier and in hyperpigmentation. Peptides have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can also help in improving skin texture.
Try to look for products that are non-comedogenic to avoid clogging your pores, which can cause breakouts, uneven skin tone, and rough texture. This is especially helpful if you have oily skin as it could make your face greasier.
Choosing a night cream should be based on your particular skin type and skin concerns. In general lighter formulations are more suitable for oily skin, fragrance-free formulations are for sensitive skin, and richer formulations are more appropriate for dry skin.
Mature skin types would benefit from night creams if these have actives like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, niacinamide, and peptides. It can sometimes take a lot of trial and error to choose the right night cream so it's best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance in your skincare regimen.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skin Type | Key Ingredients | Highlights | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream | ![]() | Sculpt, Hydrate & Renew Youthful Skin Everyday | Combination, Oily, Normal, Dry, Mature | Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Amino Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, Vitamin E, Carob Seed Extract | Firming, Regenerating, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Non-Comedogenic | 50 g | |
2 | Aveeno Face C+R Oat Gel Moisturizer | ![]() | Soothe, Strengthen, and Restore: Gentle Hydration | Sensitive, Normal to Dry, Irritated Skin | Prebiotic, Calming Feverfew, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Centella Asiatica Extract | Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Free From Parabens, Alcohol, Dyes, Phthalates | 50 g | |
3 | Cetaphil Rich Night Cream | ![]() | Deep Nourishment Overnight: Wake Up to Soothed, Hydrated Skin | Normal to Very Dry, Sensitive, Dry to Normal | Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Vitamin C complex, Olive Fruit Oil, Linoleic Acid, Lycopene, Marrubium Vulgare Extract. | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Non-Comedogenic | 48 g | |
4 | Pond's Age Miracle Night Cream | ![]() | Wake Up to Youthful, Radiant Skin | All Skin Types | Hexyl-Retinol, Retinol-C Complex, Niacinamide, 4D Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Ceramides, Prebiotics, Vitamin B3, Vitamin E acetate | Brightening, Paraben-Free, Alcohol-Free, Free of Artificial Colorants, Firming, Regenerating, Moisturizing, Nourishing | 10 g | |
5 | SKINTIFIC MSH Niacinamide Brightening Moisture Gel | ![]() | Lightweight Radiance, 10x Brighter Skin | All skin types | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Tranexamic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract | Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Paraben/Alcohol-Free, Nourishing, Moisturizing, Firming, Regenerating, Soothing, Anti-Aging, Improves Sagging | 30 g | |
6 | NIVEA Face Care Luminous 630 Spotclear Night Complexion Repair | ![]() | Wake Up to Radiant, Even-Toned Skin | All Skin Types | Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Glycerin, Isobutylamido Thiazolyl Resorcinol | Regenerating, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Anti-aging, Brightening | 50 g | |
7 | Neutrogena Visible Repair Night Moisturizer | ![]() | 3x Anti-Wrinkle Power for Smoother, Younger-Looking Skin Overnight | Sensitive, Retinol-beginner skin types | Pure Retino, Carnosine, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf, Peptides | Firming, Regenerating, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Free From Parabens, Alcohol, Dyes, Phthalates, SPF/UV Protection, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Anti-Aging, Wrinkle Removal, Brightening | 30 g | |
8 | The Originote Brightening Moisturizer | ![]() | Illuminate, Firm, and Nourish – Your Skin’s Youthful Glow Awaits | Dry, Oily, Sensitive, Acne-prone | Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Ceramides, Tranexamic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Fruit Blend Extracts (Pineapple, Strawberry, Papaya), Aloe Vera, Vitamin C, Camellia Sinensis extract, Portulaca Oleracea extract | Brightening, Firming, Regenerating, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Anti-Aging, Wrinkle Removal, Non-Comedogenic, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Free From Harmful Additives | 50 g | |
9 | Vibrant Glamour Glycolic Acid Glowing Cream | ![]() | Brighten, Defend, and Transform Your Skin Every Day | All Skin Types | Glycolic Acid, Pro-Xylane, Retinol, Squalane, Centella Extract | Brightening, Firming, Regenerating, Nourishing, Anti-Aging, Non-Comedogenic, Hypoallergenic, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin | 30 g | |
10 | Garnier Sakura Glow Day Cream & Night Cream | ![]() | Hydrate, Protect & Restore Your Skin’s Radiance Day and Night | All Skin Types | Japanese Sakura Essence, Niacinamide, Ceramide, SPF 30 filters, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Prunus Yedoensis Leaf Extract | Brightening, Moisturizing, Firming, Regenerating, Nourishing, Smoothing, Anti-aging, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Free from Parabens, SPF/UV protection, Wrinkle Reduction | 20 g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Clinically proven to hydrate skin up to 400% better than luxury creams and improve skin texture by 10% in four weeks. Users report skin feeling firmer, more elastic, and fine lines visibly reduced after consistent use. Like with most potent anti-aging creams, initial adjustment may cause mild irritation for very sensitive skin.
Skin Type | Combination, Oily, Normal, Dry, Mature |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Amino Peptides, Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, Vitamin E, Carob Seed Extract |
Highlights | Firming, Regenerating, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Non-Comedogenic |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
The moisturizer is generally praised for its gentle, calming hydration, especially with sensitive, dry, or easily irritated skin. Users value the way it swiftly absorbs, making it comfortable for daily use and effective under makeup. Those with extremely dry skin sometimes prefer a thicker moisturizer for overnight use.
Skin Type | Sensitive, Normal to Dry, Irritated Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Prebiotic, Calming Feverfew, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Centella Asiatica Extract |
Highlights | Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Free From Parabens, Alcohol, Dyes, Phthalates |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users love the intense, overnight hydration, noting their skin feels soft, plump, and comfortable by morning. Some praised for not irritating or stinging even the most sensitive skin, including during harsh winter months. Some users report a lingering tackiness and shine. Those preferring a matte finish may not enjoy this aspect, although most accept it for overnight use.
Skin Type | Normal to Very Dry, Sensitive, Dry to Normal |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Vitamin C complex, Olive Fruit Oil, Linoleic Acid, Lycopene, Marrubium Vulgare Extract. |
Highlights | Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Non-Comedogenic |
Net Weight | 48 g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many praise the texture for being rich yet fast-absorbing without feeling greasy. The cream boosts skin hydration and elasticity, leading to a plumper and more youthful skin feel. Fragrance in the formulation might not suit those prone to sensitivity or allergies.
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hexyl-Retinol, Retinol-C Complex, Niacinamide, 4D Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen, Ceramides, Prebiotics, Vitamin B3, Vitamin E acetate |
Highlights | Brightening, Paraben-Free, Alcohol-Free, Free of Artificial Colorants, Firming, Regenerating, Moisturizing, Nourishing |
Net Weight | 10 g |
Skin Type | All skin types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Tranexamic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract |
Highlights | Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Paraben/Alcohol-Free, Nourishing, Moisturizing, Firming, Regenerating, Soothing, Anti-Aging, Improves Sagging |
Net Weight | 30 g |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Glycerin, Isobutylamido Thiazolyl Resorcinol |
Highlights | Regenerating, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Anti-aging, Brightening |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Lightweight and fast-absorbing texture is appreciated for comfortable overnight wear without greasiness. Skin feels more hydrated, firm, and elastic with continued use, supporting visible skin rejuvenation. Some users may experience mild redness or tingling initially, which requires gradual introduction to avoid discomfort.
Skin Type | Sensitive, Retinol-beginner skin types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Pure Retino, Carnosine, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf, Peptides |
Highlights | Firming, Regenerating, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Non-Comedogenic, Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Free From Parabens, Alcohol, Dyes, Phthalates, SPF/UV Protection, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Anti-Aging, Wrinkle Removal, Brightening |
Net Weight | 30 g |
Skin Type | Dry, Oily, Sensitive, Acne-prone |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, Vitamin E, Ceramides, Tranexamic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Fruit Blend Extracts (Pineapple, Strawberry, Papaya), Aloe Vera, Vitamin C, Camellia Sinensis extract, Portulaca Oleracea extract |
Highlights | Brightening, Firming, Regenerating, Moisturizing, Nourishing, Anti-Aging, Wrinkle Removal, Non-Comedogenic, Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free, Free From Harmful Additives |
Net Weight | 50 g |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycolic Acid, Pro-Xylane, Retinol, Squalane, Centella Extract |
Highlights | Brightening, Firming, Regenerating, Nourishing, Anti-Aging, Non-Comedogenic, Hypoallergenic, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin |
Net Weight | 30 g |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Japanese Sakura Essence, Niacinamide, Ceramide, SPF 30 filters, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Prunus Yedoensis Leaf Extract |
Highlights | Brightening, Moisturizing, Firming, Regenerating, Nourishing, Smoothing, Anti-aging, Improves Sagging, Youthful Skin, Free from Parabens, SPF/UV protection, Wrinkle Reduction |
Net Weight | 20 g |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Meg Sison.
It depends on how thick or thin the consistency of the night cream is. If it has a thick consistency, usually a pea-sized amount is enough, but if it has a thin consistency, you can apply an amount the size of a one peso coin. You can also apply more if you feel that this amount is not enough for you.
Yes, you can use a night cream every night after cleansing the face and neck.
Yes, you can use it during the day as long as it does not have any form of retinoid.
It’s the start of the “ber” months, and you know that means the weather is going to be cold soon. Prevent your face from looking dry and flaky and look glowing come Christmas time.
Author: Justine Cuizon
Re-editor: Valerie Lagura
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Olay |Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
No. 2: Aveeno|Face C+R Oat Gel Moisturizer
No. 3: Cetaphil|Rich Night Cream
No. 4: Pond's|Age Miracle Night Cream
No. 5: SKINTIFIC|MSH Niacinamide Brightening Moisture Gel
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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