Why You Shouldn't Wear Moisturizers With Sunscreen at Night

If you use a moisturizer with an SPF factor during the day, you may think you can simply use the same moisturizer at night. After all, why spend more money on a special night cream?

It's not as straightforward as that, though. Using sunscreen at night isn't just unnecessary; it could actually be costing you in more ways than one. Here's how:

Lack of Moisture

Many moisturizers that contain an SPF factor are not as hydrating as those without, according to Zoe Draelos, MD, editor of the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. She reckons that the wee hours are the time for your skin to rest and repair itself, and recommends using a specially formulated night cream. While savvy consumers will take this advice with a grain of salt (Draelos is, after all, in a business that wants women to spend money), it's worth considering. However, I happen to agree with the doctor, mostly because I know that using an unsuitable skincare product can cause more trouble to your skin than what you are trying to save.

Harmful Chemicals

Sunscreen reduces the appearance of sun damage, but unfortunately, most brands contain toxic and even carcinogenic elements that harm the skin over long periods of use. This is why I prefer mineral sun screens in general as they according to research are safer. Whether you wear sunscreen in the daytime or opt to use a parasol is your choice. But you should know that wearing sunscreen at night doubles your exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals, and therefore your risk damaging your beautiful skin. Why take that risk at all?

More Expensive

Wearing sunscreen at night isn't just hard on your skin, it's hard on your wallet too. Moisturizers with sunscreen are often pricier than those without. Unless you have especially difficult skin, you can probably get away without using moisturizer at night. Give your skin a chance to breathe. Or, use a simple, DIY alternative like almond oil or Vitamin E cream.

If you're not convinced, why not put it to the test? Try going without your SPF-enhanced moisturizer at night for 30 days. Replace it with a night cream, a natural oil, or nothing at all. If your skin doesn't look any different - or if it actually improves - then why keep spending the money and putting your skin at risk? Save the sunscreen for the sunny days, not for the hours spent snoozing.