AM vs PM Skincare Routine!
Written by
May Willis
Published
Wednesday, 20 Nov 2024
11 min. read
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With 10+ years struggling with acne & skin conditions, we understand what it’s like.
Hey there! If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably wondered about the best way to care for your skin both in the morning and at night. The truth is, our skin has different needs at different times of the day. Understanding these differences is key to achieving that glowing, healthy complexion we all strive for. In this guide, I’ll break down the differences between morning and nighttime skincare routines, outline the essential steps for each, and show you how these routines can work together to improve your skin health.
Discover the differences between AM and PM skincare routines and how they work together to improve skin health. Learn essential steps and product tips!
I. What are the Differences Between Morning Skincare Routines and Nighttime Skincare Routines?
Morning and nighttime skincare routines serve distinct purposes and involve different steps. Here are three main key differences:
A. Purpose
The morning routine is all about protection and preparation, while the nighttime routine focuses on repair and nourishment.
B. Product Types
Morning routines typically use lighter, protective products like sunscreen, whereas nighttime routines use richer, more treatment-focused products.
C. Steps Involved
The steps in each routine differ to address the specific needs of the skin at different times of the day.
II. Morning (AM) Skincare Routine
Purpose and Goals
A. Protection from Environmental Stressors
The morning routine aims to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors.
B. Preparation for Makeup Application
A well-prepped canvas ensures that makeup goes on smoothly and lasts longer.
C. Maintaining Hydration Throughout the Day
Keeping your skin hydrated helps it stay plump and healthy-looking.
Essential Steps
A. Gentle Cleansing
Depending on your skin type, you might opt for a gentle cleanser in the morning. If your skin is dry or sensitive, you might skip this step. Use our PureNatura towels to pat dry your face gently!
B. pH-Balancing Toner
A toner helps to balance your skin’s pH and prepare it for the next steps in your routine.
C. Antioxidant Serums (Especially Vitamin C)
Antioxidants protect your skin from free radicals and environmental damage. Vitamin C is particularly great for brightening and protecting the skin.
D. Light Moisturizer
A lightweight moisturizer helps to lock in hydration without feeling heavy on the skin.
E. Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in the morning routine. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents premature aging.
III. Evening (PM) Skincare Routine
Purpose and Goals
A. Removal of Daily Accumulation of Pollutants
Cleansing at night removes makeup, sunscreen, and impurities that have accumulated throughout the day.
B. Supporting Skin’s Natural Repair Cycle
Nighttime is when your skin goes into repair mode, so it’s the perfect time to use treatment products.
C. Deep Nourishment and Treatment
Richer, more nourishing products help to repair and rejuvenate the skin while you sleep.
Essential Steps
A. Double Cleansing
Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to clean the skin. Again, use our PureNatura towels to pat dry your face gently!
B. Exfoliation (1-3 Times Weekly)
Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Don’t overdo it, though—1-3 times a week is plenty.
C. Treatment Products (Retinoids, Peptides)
Retinoids and peptides are great for promoting collagen production and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
D. Rich Moisturizer
A richer moisturizer helps to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated throughout the night.
E. Targeted Treatments (Eye Cream, Spot Treatments)
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in the morning routine. It protects your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents premature aging.
Your morning routine and nighttime routine will probably be different due to different situations. When you are in a rush to head out in the morning, you won't have all the time in the world to layer a bunch of different products on. This makes AM vs PM skincare routine interesting.
IV. Important Tips About Product Considerations!
AM Product Considerations
A. Lightweight, Fast-Absorbing Formulations
Products that absorb quickly are ideal for the morning routine.
B. Antioxidant-Rich Products
Antioxidants help to protect your skin from environmental damage.
C. Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
Choose moisturizers that won’t clog your pores.
PM Product Considerations
A. Oil-Based Cleansers for Makeup Removal
Oil-based cleansers are effective at breaking down makeup and sunscreen.
B. Richer, More Nourishing Formulas
Nighttime is the perfect time to use richer, more nourishing products.
C. Treatment-Focused Products
Use products that target specific concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.
AM vs PM Skincare: How Can the Two Routines Work Together?
Your AM and PM routines should complement each other. In the morning, focus on protecting and preparing your skin for the day ahead. At night, focus on repairing and nourishing your skin. By addressing your skin’s needs at different times of the day, you’ll achieve a balanced, healthy complexion.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between AM and PM skincare routines and how they complement each other is essential for achieving healthy, radiant skin. Your morning routine is all about protection and preparation, while your nighttime routine focuses on repair and nourishment.
By incorporating the right products and steps, you can address your skin’s unique needs at different times of the day. Remember, consistency is key, and with a little dedication, you’ll soon see improvements in your skin’s texture, better product absorption, and a stronger skin barrier. Here’s to glowing, healthy skin—morning and night!
Now that you know the differences between AM and PM skincare routine, we want to see you apply this knowledge everyday. With consistency, the results will come!
Q&A
The main difference between an AM and PM skincare routine lies in their purpose. The AM routine focuses on protection and preparation, while the PM routine focuses on repair and nourishment.
An AM and PM skincare routine can improve skin health by addressing different needs at different times of the day. The AM routine protects the skin from environmental stressors, while the PM routine repairs and nourishes the skin.
The essential steps in an AM skincare routine include gentle cleansing, using a pH-balancing toner, applying antioxidant serums (especially Vitamin C), using a light moisturizer, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen.
