how to build an acne-friendly night routine

Lifestyle changes are where the magic happens with healing acne. And most of us put a lot of emphasis on our morning routine..but then completely forget about the last half of the day - which is just as important!

I know how tempting it is to scroll TikTok in bed, just one more video, until suddenly it’s midnight, and you’re too tired to properly wash your face. Or maybe you’re doing all the things for your skin but still waking up to new breakouts.

The truth is, a night routine isn’t just about what you put on your skin..it’s about what’s happening inside your body too. Your skin is working hard to repair itself while you sleep, so let’s make sure we’re setting it up for success. Here are some tips below:

Take the Day Off (Literally!)

Double-cleansing is super important to removing makeup, sunscreen, and the dirt your skin collects throughout the day.
Start with a gentle oil cleanser to dissolve buildup, then follow with a water-based cleanser that works for your skin type. This prevents clogged pores without stripping your skin barrier.

Ditch the Screens Before Bed

I know, I know - easier said than done. But the blue light from your phone messes with your sleep and may even contribute to skin damage. Try swapping late-night scrolling for reading or journaling, and aim to put your phone away 30 minutes before bed.

make sure you’re getting enough Beauty Sleep

Skin heals best while you sleep, so aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest. If stress or anxiety keeps you up, consider adding calming rituals like warm herbal tea, meditation, or magnesium supplements to your routine.

Set the Mood for Skin Healing

Your environment is SUPER important when it comes to healing. Think of your bedroom as your skin’s sanctuary. Keep it cool, dark, and clean. A humidifier can help if you live in a dry climate, and adding a relaxing scent (like lavender) can make winding down feel like self-care, not a chore.

Skip the Midnight Snacks

Late-night snacking (especially sugary or processed foods) can mess with your blood sugar and lead to inflammation, which doesn’t help your skin. If you’re hungry, opt for something acne-friendly like a handful of nuts or a small piece of fruit with protein.

Try Lymphatic Drainage Before Bed

Gently massaging your face and practicing things like dry-brushing can help stimulate lymphatic flow, reducing puffiness and inflammation.

Limit Caffeine After 2 PM

We all know it but sometimes the reminder is nice. Caffeine can interfere with your sleep quality, which directly impacts your skin’s ability to heal overnight! To help kick the habit, use decaf in place.

Plan for Tomorrow

Taking 5-10 minutes to organize your next day can lower nighttime stress - and your stress overall. A lot of healing your acne goes back to setting yourself up for success. Prep your meals, set out your clothes, or write a quick to-do list. Feeling less rushed in the morning sets you up for better decisions (and less acne-triggering stress).

Stick to a Schedule

Your skin thrives on routine, just like the rest of your body. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day - even on weekends - to keep your circadian rhythm (and skin!) in balance.

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER - All content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for advice and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.