Modern facial moisturisers tend to fall into two camps – day and night. So, what’s the difference? And do we really need both? Let’s take a closer look at moisturisers, and how day and night versions can help keep your skin fresh and looking healthy, around the clock.
Moisturisers are like giving your skin a big drink of water. Moisturisers are topical lotions applied to skin to help hydrate, smooth and soften. Formulations can be cream or gel, and help prevent skin dryness by boosting water content and restoring the natural skin barrier.
A moisturiser can help to maintain the skin’s natural hydration and, in turn, support its barrier function to better protect the skin from various environmental factors (sun exposure, extreme temperatures, pollution and wind), common irritants and allergens1-6 as well as slowing the rate of skin’s visible ageing7. Therefore, the overall purpose of a moisturiser is to support the skin’s barrier function, strength and natural moisturisation by maintaining or increasing the skin’s hydration and reducing water loss.
To maintain the health of your skin 24/7, day and night moisturisers are the ultimate skincare duo. While they both hydrate, their key purpose differs: day creams help protect and hydrate, while night creams revitalise skin.
Do you really need both?
Day and night creams are not just the same formulation packaged differently. Daytime moisturisers are lightweight and may have protective features, like Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Thicker night creams seal in moisture, with rich moisturising ingredients to replenish moisture lost during the day. The necessity of both depends on your individual skincare needs.
Environmental factors like air conditioning and pollutants can damage skin and speed up the ageing process8. Look for a day cream with SPF, that is gently formulated to help reduce the chance of irritation, and has a lightweight texture that can be worn under makeup.
Day cream with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+, is a simple way to help shield your skin from UV radiation, which can cause wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer. Try the QV Face Moisturising Day Cream SPF 30*.
*Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Night creams work harmoniously with your skin’s natural repair cycle. These richer creams can help to ensure your skin is being hydrated as you sleep, the perfect time for skin to absorb nourishing ingredients.
Gentle Formulations that are pH-balanced, low-irritant, free from fragrance, colour and lanolin. Non-comedogenic - so they wont block pores - and dermatologically tested.
Night creams containing ceramides or niacinamide (Vitamin B3), help to support the skin barrier function and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep.
For a deeply nourishing overnight option, look for creamy textures that lock in moisture with ceramides to help support the skin barrier, and safflower seed oil to replenish. Try the QV Face Nurturing Night Cream.
Finding the perfect moisturiser starts with understanding your skin type and choosing formulas that work best at different times of the day.
Oily Skin: During the day, opt for a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturiser to hydrate without clogging pores. At night, a water-based or mattifying moisturiser helps balance oil production while keeping skin hydrated while you sleep, such as the QV Face Oil Free Moisturiser.
Dry Skin - Extremely Dry Skin: Look for a hydrating cream with ceramides during the day such as QV Ceramides Cream. At night, for extra hydration choose a more rich formula such as the QV Intensive Cream.
Combination Skin: A lightweight lotion in the morning helps prevent excess shine, such as QV Ceramides Lotion, while a slightly richer night cream can nourish drier areas like the QV Face Nurturing Night Cream.
Sensitive Skin: Choose a fragrance-free, soothing moisturiser like the QV Face Ultra Calming Moisturiser with ingredients such as Avemide 15™ and pro-vitamin B5 for both day and night to reduce the chance of irritation.
Eczema Prone Skin: The QV product range is suitable for eczema prone skin. In the morning, the QV Ceramides Cream provides long lasting hydration. At night, At night, a more intense formula like an ointment or balm can help replenish moisture like the QV Dermcare Sting-Free Ointment.
Tailoring moisturisers to your skin type and the time of day helps ensure balanced, healthy looking skin. By adding a day and night cream into your regime, you’ll be targeting relevant skin concerns around the clock.
