A "Night Cream" is a moisturizer. Yes, it is often (but not always) thicker, found in a smaller jar, and more expensive per ounce than a conventional facial moisturizer. Night creams sold on skincare aisles are formulated just like other facial moisturizers. They are water based, contain humectants to pull water into the most superficial layer of skin, occlusives to prevent water from evaporating into the environment, emulsifiers to keep the water and oily components from seperating, preservative to keep the formulation from becoming contaminated with mold and bacteria, and frequently, fragrance. There is a common myth that "skin rejuvenates at night." Research at the cellular level suggests that a possible "circadian rhythm" of skin STEM cells may exist. Cells in the superficial layer of skin, the epidermis, however, continuously divide and turnover 24/7. When the alarm clock rings at 7:00 am, skin cells don't stop replicating!
A "night" cream is a facial moisturizer that does NOT contain sunscreen.
FALSE: You do NOT need a "night" cream.
