Focus on repairing the damage done during the day with thicker products at night. This is also the time to use anything that makes skin sensitive to sunlight, including physical exfoliants and chemical peels.

Step 1: Oil-based makeup remover
As well as dissolving the natural oils produced by your skin, an oil-based cleanser can break down oily ingredients found in makeup.
Follow the specific product instructions. You may be advised to apply the makeup remover on wet or dry skin. Once applied, massage in until skin is clean then rinse with water.

Step 2: Water-based cleanser
Water-based cleansers react with makeup and dirt on the skin in a way that allows everything to be rinsed away with water.
Usually, you’ll apply it to wet skin, massage it, and rinse off.

Step 3: Exfoliator or clay mask
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells while decongesting pores. Clay masks work to unclog pores, but can also absorb excess oil. These masks are best applied at night to remove leftover dirt and help the skin soak up other products. Once or twice a week, apply the clay mask all over or to specific problem areas. Leave on for the recommended time, then rinse with warm water and pat dry. Exfoliants have different application methods, so follow product instructions.

Step 4: Hydrating mist or toner
A hydrating mist or toner marks the end of your nighttime cleansing routine. Look out for humectant ingredients — lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, and glycerine -to really give skin a moisture boost. Spritz mists over your face. For toners, apply the product to a cotton pad and swipe over the skin.

Step 5: Acid treatment
Dousing your face in acid may sound scary, but this skincare treatment can encourage cell turnover. Beginners may want to try glycolic acid. Other options include acne-busting salicylic acid and moisturizing hyaluronic acid. Over time, you should notice a brighter and more even complexion. Start once a week with the goal of using every night. Do a patch test at least 24 hours before first use. Add a few drops of the solution to a cotton pad and sweep.

Step 6: Serums and essences
Serums deliver powerful ingredients directly to the skin. Essence is simply a watered-down version. Vitamin E is great for dry skin, while antioxidants like green tea extract can be used on dull complexions. If you’re prone to breakouts, try retinol or vitamin C. Carry out a patch test 24 hours before using a new serum or essence. Dispense the product into your hand and press it into your skin. Just apply water-based ones before oil-based and wait around 30 seconds between each.

Step 7: Spot treatment
Anti-inflammatory products are for blemishes with ahead. Follow with a spot-drying treatment. Ones that dry visibly are great for nighttime use. Make sure skin is clean. Apply a small amount of product and leave to dry.

Step 8: Eye cream
A richer nighttime eye cream can help improve appearance-related issues, like tiredness and fine lines. Look for a high concentration of peptides and antioxidants. Apply a small amount of cream to the eye area and dab in.

Step 9: Face oil
A nighttime oil is ideal for dry or dehydrated skin. The evening is the best time to apply thicker oils that may result in an unwanted shiny complexion. Pat a few drops into the skin. Make sure no other product is applied on top for the best results.

Step 10: Night cream or sleeping mask
Night creams are a totally optional last step, but they can be worthwhile. While day creams are designed to protect the skin, these rich moisturizers help cell repair. Sleep masks, on the other hand, seal in all your other products and contain hydrating ingredients mild enough to be kept on overnight. Warm a small amount of product in your hands before distributing it evenly across your face.

**Ten-step routines aren’t to everyone’s taste, so don’t feel pressured to include every step in the above lists.The most important thing is finding a skincare routine that works for you and that you’ll follow. For many people, a good rule of thumb is to apply products thinnest to thickest for however many products that may be as they move through their skincare routines.