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The best night creams for acne are specially formulated with skin-friendly ingredients. These creams can repair and brighten your skin, along with fighting acne and reviving skin cells while you sleep. Since the night is when skin recovers rapidly, using an acne cream for the night will provide visible results. The following post lists some good night creams that can work for acne and some factors that can make your search easier. Read on to choose the right one that suits you.
Top Picks
Is A Night Cream Necessary?
Your skin rejuvenates and heals at night (1). Applying the right night cream may help the skin repair itself better, improving its health and giving you that radiant look. Night creams also soothe your skin and provide essential hydration.
Night creams with hyaluronic acid cause more water to be attracted to skin cells, making your skin feel plump and soft. Some night creams may also prevent premature aging signs. Therefore, suitable night creams can work wonders for your skin health.
21 Best Night Creams For Acne
1. Best Moisturizing:CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 31,099 reviews on Amazon.
CeraVe night cream is an extraordinary blend of biomimetic peptides that can rejuvenate dull and tired skin. The scientifically formulated product contains three essential ceramides that can strengthen and restore the skin’s protective barrier, while hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain its natural moisture. This night cream has a blend of powerful ingredients and uses MVE Delivery Technology to provide continuous nourishment to the skin for more than 24 hours. The result-driven powerful moisturizer is non-greasy, increases skin elasticity, and reduces wrinkles and fine lines. Not sure if this is the right fit for you? Check out this review video to understand how the product works.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Developed by dermatologists
- Gentle and non-irritating formula
- Formulated for oily and acne-prone skin
Cons
- Container may be smaller than you expect
Quick tip2. Best Waterproof:Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Night Cream
Clary sage is known for its ability to retain moisture. It is the key ingredient of Burt’s Bees Hydration night cream, which has been formulated to eliminate wrinkles and fine lines while improving the skin’s ability to lock in moisture. It is ideal for those seeking close-to-natural acne remedies and provides visible results. This formula is most suitable for dry skin. The night cream does not contain parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, and SLS and is dermatologically proven to make your skin softer and younger. Check out this simple testing video to understand the product and how it works.
Pros
- Contains 98.9% natural ingredients
- Fast-absorbing cream
- Non-comedogenic
- Cruelty-free
- Helps fight acne
- Provides 24-hour protection
Cons
- Smell may be intense for some
- May be slightly thick and waxy
3. Best With Bio-Active Ingredients:Simplified Skin Retinol Moisturizer Cream
This skin moisturizer by Simplified is an advanced formula made of active retinol and bio-active ingredients such as vitamins B5 and E, hyaluronic acid, green tea, shea butter, and jojoba seed oil. These beneficial ingredients are known for their ability to soothe, heal, moisturize, and regenerate the skin.
The cream may help minimize the appearance of acne spots, fine lines, and sun damage. Trusted for its proven efficacy, this lightweight anti-aging cream is non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and 98% natural. It is also 71% organic and contains no chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, or gluten. Here’s a video of the reviewer’s experience that demonstrates exactly how easy it is to use this blemish-control product.
Pros
- Increases cell turnover
- Offers intense skin hydration
- Cruelty-free cream
- Can be used in the morning and evening
- Non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals
- Suitable for all skin types
- Convenient-to-use pump
Cons
- May be slightly thick
- May be strong for sensitive skin
"This cream applies easily and absorbs well, offering a refreshing, slight cooling sensation due to the hyaluronic acid and green tea content. I feel refreshed and nourished after each use and it's working great."
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream Best Moisturizing | Burt’s Bees Intense Hydration Night Cream Best Dermatologist-Tested | Simplified Skin Retinol Moisturizer Cream Best With Bio-Active Ingredients | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8 x 2.63 x 2.19 inches | 2.5 x 2.38 x 2 inches | 2 x 2 x 3.75 inches |
| Weight | 1.69 Ounces | 1.8 Ounces | 1.7 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 31,099 | 3,943 | 7,684 |
| Price | $15.87 | $40.58 | $13.95 |
4. Best Non-Comedogenic:Eucerin Redness Relief Night Creme
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 7,443 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
Eucerin night creme is a non-comedogenic and oil-free cream for sensitive skin. This professional-grade product offers skin moisturizing benefits that help soothe the skin and minimize redness, while its licorice root extract content helps calm the skin. The light and gentle formula is free of dyes, fragrances, or any ingredients that may cause skin redness and irritation. It is one of the most affordable night creams available.
Pros
- A little goes a long way
- Suitable for rosacea skin
- Non-comedogenic
- Calms dry skin
Cons
- May be a bit greasy
- May be less suitable for oily skin
Did you know?5. Best For Younger-Looking Skin:Ebanel Liposomal Retinol Moisturizer
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 3,417 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
Ebanel Liposomal Retinol moisturizing cream is suitable for oily, sensitive, normal, dry, or combination skin. The moisturizer uses retinol to promote collagen production for younger-looking skin.
This powerful cream moisturizes and ultra-hydrates the skin, removing dark spots, crow’s feet, fine lines, and wrinkles. The lightweight hydrator has a smooth, non-greasy texture. It can also eliminate blemishes and minimize breakouts, providing visible results. The skin rejuvenation benefits offered by this firming cream help eliminate dullness and provide an even texture to the face.
Pros
- Loaded with powerful ingredients
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Paraben- and sulfate-free
Cons
- May not absorb well
- May leave a residue
6. Best For Dry, Flaky Skin:Differin Restorative Night Moisturizer
Differin moisturizer is a hydrating cream enriched with hyaluronic acid that helps maintain natural moisture to make the skin look vibrant. Suitable for hydrating acne-prone skin, this professional-grade cream is formulated with ceramide to keep the moisture intact for 24 hour, and allantoin to rehydrate dry, flaky skin overnight.
It is also rich in shea butter that softens the skin and licorice extract that enhance your complexion. The cream can keep the skin moist without side effects and is dermatologically tested making it a more reliable alternative.
Pros
- Non-irritating
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Fragrance-free
- Ideal for cold weather
- Non-greasy
Cons
- May not be effective on scars
- Some may not like the smell
7. Best With Natural Ingredients:Body Merry Breakthrough Night Cream
If you are looking for a super silky and rich moisturizing night cream, try the Body Merry cream. Enriched with whipped butter, the night cream appears smooth when applied, providing visible results. It penetrates deep into the skin and provides a radiating effect to all types of skin in all climates.
The cream is rich in natural ingredients such as vitamins B3, B5, and E, spirulina, organic sunflower, shea butter, green tea, and jojoba oil to rejuvenate and nourish your skin. This multi-purpose face and hand cream also contains 5% niacinamide, peptides, ocean minerals, and seaweeds, which can brighten the skin. The anti-aging product has not been tested on animals and is safe to use with no side effects.
Pros
- Spreads easily
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Fragrance-free
- Ideal for rough skin
- Hygienic pump
Cons
- May not be great for dry skin
- Some may find the smell intense
8. Best Gentle:Pacifica Beauty Dreamy Youth Day & Night Moisturizing Face Cream
Pacify Beauty cream is formulated with concentrated peptides, floral stem cells, grapeseed oil, antioxidants, and advanced extracts to prevent clogged pores and provide a deep moisturizing effect to the skin. This cream is vegan, not tested on animals, and does not contain parabens, gluten, phthalates, SLS, and mineral oil.
It can be used both during the day and at night and works best on dry skin. The cream exudes the fragrance of geranium and rose, and its gentle formula keeps your skin nourished throughout the day.
Pros
- Easy to spread and apply
- No breakouts
- Smooth, creamy consistency
- Offers intense moisturization
Cons
- May not be great for oily skin
- May have a slightly strong smell
9. Best For Reducing Dark Spots:Eve Hansen Vitamin C Night Cream
Eva Hansen cream is a natural collagen cream formulated with vitamins C, E, and B5, avocado, coconut oil, organic aloe vera, sunflower oil, and cocoa butter, making it one of the most effective night creams. This result-driven cream may help reduce dark spots, resulting in bright, clear skin.
Vitamin C helps protect your skin from sun damage, discoloration, and dark spots. The cream does not contain parabens, sulfates, or phthalates, and is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Neutralizes free radicals and prevents their formation
- Suitable for normal, dry, or oily skin
- Evens out blotchiness
- Helps remove acne scars
- Blendable consistency
Cons
- May be less suitable for sensitive skin
- Container may be smaller than you expect
Did you know?10. Best For All Skin Types: Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment Cream
Soften acne marks with the help of Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol treatment cream. This gentle acne treatment cream is formulated with peptides and vitamin C to prevent skin aging, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin tone, and make the skin appear firm. It also contains hyaluronic acid to make your skin look healthy and hydrated. Its smooth, creamy consistency easily absorbs into the skin and makes it soft and supple.
The licorice extract helps reduce redness overnight, while retinol fights against sun damage. This cream also rejuvenates your skin and offers visible results by minimizing the appearance of large pores and bumpy skin texture. In addition, this cream is suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Cruelty-free
- Improves uneven skin tone
- Free of parabens and fragrance
Cons
- May cause a burning sensation for some
- Quantity might be lesser than expected
11. Best Anti-Aging:O Naturals Hydrating Hemp Night Cream
O naturals cream is made of natural ingredients derived from the earth. The formula is rich in hemp seed oil, aloe vera, shea butter, jojoba oil, vitamin E, shaka inchi oil, and squalane. Hemp oil is rich in omega 3, 6, and fatty acids and has anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe acne breakouts.
This anti-aging night cream contains hyaluronic acid to prevent moisture loss. It has no SLS/SLES, silicone, petrolatum, parabens, and propylene glycol and has not been tested on animals. The night cream helps you restore moisture during sleep and is suitable for dry and natural skin.
Pros
- Regulates oil production
- Unclog pores
- Soothes skin redness
- Non-greasy
- Relieves dry-itchy skin
Cons
- May have a slightly thick consistency
- Some may not like the scent
12. Best Acne-Prone Skin Solution:DearKlairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream
DearKlairs cream consists of Centella Asiatica, also known as “tiger grass”, which helps soothe and strengthen the skin’s barrier. It is also formulated with guaiazulene (a herbal ingredient extracted from chamomile), which effectively reduces inflammation of damaged skin tissues and skin cell regeneration.
Midnight Blue is effective for acne-prone skin and is one of the best night creams for sensitive skin. This professional-grade intensive cream has a positive effect on sunburned, inflamed, and swollen skin and is fragrance-free and vegan-friendly.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Blendable consistency
- Can also be used after seasonal allergies
- Safe to use after threading
Cons
- May not replace regular moisturizer
- Jar may be tiny
13. Best Dermatologist-Recommended Formula:Neutrogena Light Facial Night Cream
Neutrogena night cream is suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin and is rich in sesame oil. This light cream recommended by dermatologists helps provide moisture to the skin for eight hours. When left overnight, the cream also soothes and hydrates the skin, giving it a vibrant look. A trusted choice of the reviewers, the formula makes your skin look nourished and is hypoallergenic and free of alcohol and fragrance.
Pros
- Prevents breakouts
- Spreads easily
- Comes in a tub for easy access
- Ideal for dry skin
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May not show instant results
- Has a slightly watery consistency
14. Best Vegan-Friendly:Derma-E Acne Rebalancing Cream
Prevent acne breakouts and minimize blemishes with the Derma-E acne rebalancing cream. Its gentle exfoliating formula prevents the clogging of pores and is safe to use during the day and at night. Packed with anti-acne properties such as 0.53% salicylic acid and tea tree oil, the rebalancing cream provides clear and hydrated skin and minimizes redness and irritation while reducing the appearance of blemishes and acne.
In addition, the rich cream is infused with the goodness of willow bark extract, chamomile, and lavender extract that soothes the skin, removes dead skin, and improves complexion. This cream is vegan-friendly, not tested on animals, and suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Quick absorption
- Long-lasting
- Free of gluten and soy
- GMO-free
Cons
- May have an overpowering smell of tea-tree oil
- Consistency may be thick
15. Best Pollution-Defense:Mad Hippie Skin Care Triple C Night Cream
Mad Hippie night cream is a hydrating treatment that contains three forms of vitamin C to brighten the skin and reduce discoloration. Reishi is an adaptogen and can be used as a powerful antioxidant together with hydrating elements. Turmeric extract is another antioxidant that can brighten the skin. Chaga helps protect and rejuvenate the skin from exposure to pollutants.
This earth-friendly cream also consists of shea butter, ceramides, and cloudberry to nourish and increase the skin’s radiance. It is vegan and does not contain parabens, SLS, petrochemicals, and artificial flavors. This eco-friendly cream can significantly help in skin texture improvement.
Pros
- Velvety creamy texture
- Blends smoothly
- A little goes a long way
- User-friendly tub container
- Comes with a scoop
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May be slightly heavy
- Some may not like the scent
16. Best Non-Comedogenic:Tree To Tub Ginseng Green Tea Retinol Night Cream
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 249 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
The product is an anti-aging night cream with a perfect pH 5.5 balance. Its rich vitamins A, B5, and E content help in healing damaged skin. The formula is blended with ginseng and hyaluronic acid, which help promote blood circulation and relieve inflammation, thereby offering a soothing effect. It also has aloe vera and cucumber that can moisturize dry sky, while chamomile and rosewater have a calming effect on the skin. Trusted for its proven efficacy, this non-comedogenic face cream with essential oils is suitable for men, women, and children.
Pros
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly
- Contains safe ingredients
- Deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin
- Free of irritants and harmful chemicals
Cons
- May be a bit sticky
- May not be great for sensitive skin
17. Best Skin Cell Regeneration Support:Bioaqua Soothing & Moisture Aloe Vera Gel
Bioaqua gel is a long-lasting moisturizing cream formulated for dry skin. This hydrator gel has 92% aloe extract, which makes the skin refreshing and non-greasy. The properties of aloe vera help minimize burning sensation after UV exposure and slow down the degeneration of skin cells. This cream is suitable for acne-prone and dry skin.
Pros
- Improves skin’s appearance
- Rejuvenates the skin
- Prevents fogging skin
- Offers radiant skin
Cons
- May be slightly thin
- Scent might be slightly intense for some
18. Best Harmful Substance-Free:Neutralyze Intensive Night Cream For Face
The Neutralyze night cream is formulated with acne-fighting and skin-rejuvenating components like vitamin C, bakuchiol, and salicylic acid, making it a suitable addition to your daily skincare routine. It is an all-rounder night cream that helps manage various skin concerns, including acne and premature aging. This cream works by gently exfoliating while inducing a long-lasting hydration that reduces irritation and soothes inflamed skin.
In addition, the bakuchiol in this lotion can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin appearance, and reduce skin pigmentation and dryness. This tried-and-tested formula has skin-soothing properties and is free from parabens, sulfates, and other harmful substances and is suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-recommended formula
- Can be applied to the face and body
Cons
- Some may not like the smell
- Dispenser may get jammed
19. Best Fine Line-Reducing:Manuka Lane Rejuvenating Night Cream
Manuka Lane moisturizing cream is an ultra-repair beauty treatment made using New Zealand honey. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that fight against harmful bacteria and soothe and rejuvenate tired or distressed skin. It is also formulated with Argireline to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, while amino acids clear the pores. Rosemary provides a soothing aroma, while skin-enhancing peptides and vitamin A can repair skin damage.
Sweet almond oil, lanolin, ginkgo, and ginseng help maintain the pH balance of the skin. This anti-aging cream is effective for crow’s feet and eye bags. The powerful ingredients of this clear skin solution help maintain the moisture levels and elasticity of the skin, giving it a vibrant appearance. It is earth-friendly and has never been tested on animals.
Pros
- Soothes irritated skin
- Improves blood circulation
- Reduces puffiness of the skin
- Soothes eczema
- Combats chapped skin
Cons
- May not be great for dry skin
20. Best Retinol-Infused:Buycrafty Organic Herbs Pure Face Cream
Buycrafty cream contains retinol as the key ingredient to help you look younger. It contains jojoba oil, tea extract, and vitamin E to help eliminate wrinkles, dark spots, and eye bags. This night cream is rich in antioxidants to prevent sun damage, acne scars, and stretch marks. The cream provides firmness and elasticity and helps you achieve a healthier and more radiant complexion. Recommended by dermatologists, it is non-comedogenic, non-drying, and non-irritating and suitable for all skin types.
Pros
- Does not leave any residue
- Ideal for dry and flaky skin
- Provides intense moisturization
- Evens the skin texture
Cons
- May be less suitable for sensitive skin
21. Best Hyaluronic Acid-Infused:Mia Del Mar Overnight Miracle Glow Night Cream
The anti-aging Mia Del Mar cream contains hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin and make it look flawless. Enriched with retinol, it stimulates faster skin cell revival to control acne and helps slow down hyperpigmentation. Squalane and jojoba oil moisturize the skin and check the production of excess oil when the skin is resting.
This overnight acne treatment cream helps tighten pores to prevent acne and restore the skin’s health overnight. The formula is rich in lavender, jasmine, and rose extracts to give the ultimate morning glow. This product is vegan, does not contain sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, and is cruelty-free.
Pros
- Stimulates skin cell turnover
- Contains collagen to tackle sagging skin
- Prevents moisture loss
- Treats dry patches
Cons
- Certain ingredients may not suit sensitive skin
- Small container size
Factors To Consider Before Choosing Night Cream For Acne
To choose the best night cream, consider these factors, and make your selection easier.
- Nature-friendly: Your night cream should contain active ingredients, such as aloe vera, coffee bean extract, oil extract, green tea, and other ingredients to help solve mature skin concerns.
- Ingredients: Choose the right, dermatologist-tested product according to your skin texture. Jojoba oil and shea butter are very helpful in giving skin moisture and softness. If your skin is prone to acne, then medicated hyaluronic acid will bind moisture and protect your pores. Antioxidants impart anti-aging properties and provide elasticity and firmness to your skin.
- Brand and quality: Do not compromise on quality brands, as they will provide the correct ingredients. Generally, dermatologists recommend using branded creams, so they are safe to use. Our skin is a sensitive part of the body, so choose the right quality.
- Type of skin: Before choosing a cream, understand your skin type – apply a small amount of the cream on the back of your hand to find out whether it is oily or dry. Once you know your skin type, it is easy to choose the perfect cream for your skin.
- Regeneration of cells: The typical characteristics of healthy skin depend on its collagen content. Because collagen-rich products have anti-aging properties, the presence of this protein gives elasticity and firmness.
, a renowned New York-based dermatologist and owner of Skinly Aesthetics, says, “If your cream is scented, it may not be as hydrating due to the alcohol present in fragrances. Always opt for a cream that is unscented and made of natural ingredients”
How To Apply A Night Cream?
- Follow the steps mentioned below for great results.
- Wash your hands well.
- Cleanse your face neatly with a cleanser that suits your skin type.
- Collect a dime-size amount of cream on your fingers.
- Dab the cream on your face.
- Massage the cream in a circular motion, following an upward direction.
- Apply the cream 30 minutes before you go to bed.
What Is The Right Age To Use Night Cream?
There is usually no specific age to start using night creams since each person’s skin is different and different creams target various skin concerns. Most people may notice their skin wrinkle and loosen from their 30s, which is when you may consider using night creams. If you are older, you may check night creams with anti-aging effects, potentially reducing fine wrinkles, restoring natural skin health, preventing acne scars, and the appearance of deeper wrinkles as you age.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What night creams do dermatologists recommend?
Many dermatologists recommend CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, Nature Republic Snail Solution, Differin Restorative Night Moisturizer, Skinceuticals Retinol Night Cream, and several others mentioned on this list due to their skin-friendly ingredients.
2. Do night creams work?
Night creams enjoy widespread popularity and are recommended by dermatologists for different reasons. They contain vital ingredients that help your skin regenerate and heal, especially during sleep-time when your skin absorbs active ingredients better.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is highly regarded for creating content related to skincare. hair care, fashion, and more. With in-depth analysis and detailed reviews, Poulami lists the best night creams for acne with their benefits to help the readers choose the best ones available. The extensive list is guaranteed to help the readers in a hassle-free shopping experience.
The Bottom Line
Night creams specifically formulated to address acne can be a useful addition to your night-time skincare routine. With ingredients such as retinol, niacinamide, and salicylic acid, among others, these creams penetrate deep and act on acne while you sleep. When choosing the best night cream for acne, ensure it is suitable for your skin type and rich in natural ingredients for optimal benefits. For instance, you can opt for the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream with biomimetic peptides, the Pacifica Beauty Dreamy Youth Day & Night Moisturizing Face Cream with antioxidants, or the Eve Hansen Vitamin C Night with collagen. Furthermore, choosing a night cream free of harsh chemicals will help ensure that your skin is not exposed to irritation or allergies.
Infographic: How To Prevent Acne From Getting Worse
Besides applying any of the night creams mentioned above, following certain precautions can help reduce the risk of worsening acne. After all, any health concern demands a holistic approach to resolve it. So, check out the following infographic to learn more about the routine to consider if you have acne-prone skin.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Get Glowing Skin—At Any Age.
https://thewell.northwell.edu/skin-health/anti-aging-skin-care-routine - Licorice Root
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/licorice-root - The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5579659/
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