Most of us know that cleansing before bedtime is a MUST, although it can be somewhat confusing on what should follow in your nighttime skin care routine.

Which products should you use? An eye cream? Exfoliator?

Your skin cells are very busy at night, therefore it's important to prep your skin properly before you go to bed. Here, we're going to share the top tips for how to care for your skin at night.

How to Care for Your Skin at Night

Nighttime is a busy time for your skin. Not only is your body recovering and renewing itself, but your skin does as well. Your skin cells regenerate at night and your body works to reverse the effects of stress, pollution, sun exposure and the loss of moisture throughout the day. The products you use before you go to bed can aid in this process.

1. Cleanse Thoroughly

Whether you have dry, combination, oily or sensitive skin, a good cleansing before you go to bed is essential. This means you can't get away with simply using a cleansing wipe. While these wipes are great for breaking down makeup they do not work to thoroughly cleanse the skin. For this, you'll need a cleanser of your choice and water. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to use a gentle foaming or cream cleanser. If you have combination to oily skin, it becomes even more important to clear out your pores and prevent dirt and oil buildup.

Cleansing thoroughly at night helps to prevent acne and breakouts and bacteria buildup within the pores.

2. Exfoliate

Because skin cells regenerate faster at night while you sleep, it's important to do your part before you go to bed. Exfoliating works to remove dead skin cells and clear the pores to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. You have several options when it comes to exfoliating. You can use an exfoliating toner, facial pads, scrubs or even a cleansing brush. Liquid exfoliators will often contain acids and/or enzymes which work to renew the skin and clear the pores revealing a brighter complexion in the morning.

Without proper exfoliation, dry skin will experience flaking and redness while oily skin types will experience blackheads, whiteheads and other blemishes. Therefore don't skip the step in your nighttime skin care routine!

3. Treat

The perfect time to treat your skin is at night. The nutrients from your serums, masks and other treatments will soak into your skin and work all night long. After you cleanse, it's great to incorporate a treatment such as a facial mask 2-3 times per week as needed. Pick a mask that is rich in vitamins and antioxidants which will help to repair damage as a result of environmental pollution and sun exposure.

If you like a more streamline skin care routine, we would recommend trying sheet masks. They're super quick and easy to use and double as a mask and moisturizing treatment serum. After 15-20 minutes, you can simply remove the mask and smooth the remaining serum into your skin. Voila!

4. Sleep

This may seem obvious, although one of the most important (yet neglected) parts of your evening routine is getting enough sleep. Your body needs at least 8 hours of sleep at night to undergo the natural processes required to repair damage and prepare for the next day. Using all of the right products will not replace the role of a good night's sleep. Therefore be sure to give yourself enough time at night to get in those zzzs. Your body and your skin will thank you.