17 best night creams of 2024 to repair and renew your skin

In true GLAMOUR fashion, our team of beauty editors has also taken the time to test the below formulas first-hand to take note of their long-term benefits and value for money. And of course, we've consulted the experts to answer all your burning FAQs on all things night cream. Read on and enjoy.

All creams deliver hydration and moisture. However, daytime moisturisers tend to focus on minimising the damage from external aggressors such as free radicals, environmental pollutants and harmful UV, while night creams are usually formulated with richer and more potent formulas to focus on skin barrier repair, as well as stimulating collagen and cell production, resulting in a plump and even complexion in the morning.

“Our skin never really sleeps; instead, it works around the clock, shifting into different modes,” says Caglar Odabasi, Head of education at Fresh UK & Europe. “During the day, it becomes stressed and is unable to function at its optimal level, so its natural barrier becomes weaker and loses vital moisture," he says.

However, "at night, skin shifts into a regenerative and receptive mode, recovering from daily activity, and is far more responsive to nourishment and active ingredients. This is when skin cells work at their most efficient level to repair, recover and de-stress, preparing to function at its best the next day.”

If you're after youth-boosting benefits, we suggest considering a retinol-infused formula, and if hydration and even skin tone are your top priorities, you can't go wrong with trending ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and squalane. After a soothing formula? Try to look out for a moisturiser with ceramides, peptides and/or niacinamide, all of which are superb for sensitive skin, rosacea and eczema. “Hyaluronic acid helps to retain moisture in the skin, whilst glycerin prevents moisture loss,” explains Dr Thivi.

Many acne-prone and oilier skin types tend to skip night cream believing the myth that the extra layer of hydration and nourishment will lead to clogged pores and breakouts. However, the right formula can help treat acne, strengthen skin and control oil production. You could try acid-based night creams with AHA and BHA’s such as salicylic acid, which work to decongest and slough off dead skin cells while you get your beauty sleep.

Although it sure can be tempting to pick a night face cream with active ingredients to treat your skin concerns, you want to ensure these same ingredients are not in your cleanser, makeup remover, toner or serum, since layering too many actives can lead to skin irritation and sensitivity.

“It is important to consider the other products that are in your skin care routine to avoid using too much of any harsh ingredients like exfoliating acids or retinoids,” Dr Marisa Garshick told GLAMOUR. “When selecting a night cream, avoid picking one that is not specific for your skin type. Additionally, for those of the dryer sensitive skin, avoid selecting a night cream with heavy fragrance.”

“We recommend using regenerating and protective ingredients to help keep signs of aging at bay. Formulas which are rich in antioxidants to protect collagen, plus hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter will help delay the appearance of fine lines,” says Jon Rummins, EVE LOM UK & EMEA Trainer.

“Most night creams should be applied at night after cleansing, and serums. While many night creams can be used every night, depending on the ingredients, for example if it contains retinol or other exfoliating acids, it may only be recommended a few times per week,” reveals Dr Marisa Garshick.

Looking to revolutionise your skincare routine? Check out our guides on the best body moisturisers and lotions, best face SPFs, best face masks, best glycolic acids and best moisturisers for combination skin. And don't forget about other bestseller skincare products such as eye creams, hyaluronic acids serums and vitamin C serums.