Do You Need Different Skincare for AM vs. PM? Expert Advice
When it comes to skincare, you may have heard that there’s a need for different routines in the morning (AM) and at night (PM). But why is this the case? Does your skin need a completely different set of products for day and night, or can you use the same skincare routine for both? The truth is, your skin’s needs change depending on the time of day. So yes, there are distinct benefits to having a tailored AM skincare routine and a PM skincare routine. Let’s explore why and how to adjust your regimen for the best results.
Why Do You Need Different Skincare for AM vs. PM?
Your skin is constantly changing, adapting to its environment, and going through different processes during the day and night. Understanding these differences helps you choose products that maximize your skin’s natural cycle and improve its overall health.
AM Skincare: Protect & Prep for the Day
In the morning, your skin is preparing to face environmental stressors like sun exposure, pollution, and other external factors. Your skincare routine during this time should focus on protection, hydration, and creating a smooth base for makeup, if desired.
Skin’s Focus: In the AM, your skin is naturally in a state of protection. You need to focus on defense against UV damage, environmental pollutants, and free radicals. Your skin is also more likely to absorb moisture in the morning.
Key Ingredients for AM:
Sunscreen: The number one skincare product you need in the AM routine is a high-quality sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature aging, dark spots, and skin cancer, so protecting your skin from UV rays is crucial.
Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, niacinamide, and other antioxidants work wonders in the morning to fight free radicals and environmental damage.
Lightweight Moisturizers: Use a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate without weighing down the skin, ensuring it stays dewy and fresh throughout the day.
Cleansers: Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser in the morning to remove overnight oils and impurities without stripping your skin.
PM Skincare: Repair & Rejuvenate Overnight
At night, your skin enters its repair phase. It’s actively working to rejuvenate itself, repair damage, and regenerate new cells. The night is the perfect time for more intensive treatments that promote repair and regeneration.
Skin’s Focus: During the night, your skin isn’t fighting external stressors; instead, it's focused on rejuvenation and repairing itself. This is when your skin is most receptive to active ingredients that target specific concerns such as wrinkles, pigmentation, or acne.
Key Ingredients for PM:
Retinoids: Retinol, tretinoin, and other retinoids are the go-to ingredients for evening routines. They promote skin cell turnover, reduce wrinkles, and prevent acne.
Hydrating and Repairing Moisturizers: At night, go for richer, more hydrating moisturizers that will lock in moisture and allow your skin to repair itself while you sleep.
AHA/BHAs: Chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid or salicylic acid can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores for a smoother complexion, making them great for the evening.
Peptides and Growth Factors: These ingredients support collagen production and skin repair, which is why they’re excellent for PM use when your skin is focused on regeneration.
How to Tailor Your AM and PM Skincare Routines
Here’s a quick breakdown of an effective AM and PM skincare routine:
AM Skincare Routine:
Cleanser: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove overnight oils and dirt without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture balance.
Toner: Apply a soothing or hydrating toner to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for further products.
Serum: Choose a serum with antioxidants like Vitamin C or niacinamide to protect your skin from free radicals.
Moisturizer: A lightweight moisturizer to hydrate without leaving a heavy residue.
Sunscreen: Finish your routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your skin from UV damage.
PM Skincare Routine:
Cleanser: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and dirt. You may want to double cleanse if you’ve worn makeup or sunscreen during the day.
Exfoliant (Optional): Apply a mild exfoliant if you wish to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Use this 2-3 times a week to avoid irritation.
Treatment Serums: Opt for serums with ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, or other active ingredients tailored to your skin concerns.
Moisturizer: Use a richer moisturizer to nourish and repair your skin while you sleep. This helps lock in moisture and prevent dehydration overnight.
Eye Cream (Optional): If you have concerns about puffiness, dark circles, or fine lines, consider using an eye cream at night.
Can You Use the Same Products for AM and PM?
Some products can be used in both AM and PM routines, like gentle cleansers, hydrating toners, and non-comedogenic moisturizers. However, products like sunscreen, retinoids, and exfoliants should be used in the appropriate time slots. Sunscreen should always be part of your AM routine, while retinoids and exfoliants should only be used at night to avoid irritation from sun exposure.
Is It Really Necessary to Have Two Routines?
Having different skincare routines for the morning and night can significantly enhance your results. Since your skin’s needs differ during the day and night, adjusting your products to work with your skin’s natural rhythm maximizes the benefits. AM routines focus on protection, hydration, and a smooth base, while PM routines are for repair, rejuvenation, and targeted treatments.
By customizing your skincare to fit both timeframes, you can keep your skin in optimal condition and achieve the best possible results.
Not sure how to tailor your skincare routine? Book a personalized consultation at Isabelle McLeod Skincare today, and let our skincare experts create a custom AM and PM routine to suit your skin’s unique needs.
