A solid nighttime skincare routine is essential for healthy, glowing skin. For brown skin, this routine can be tailored to target common concerns like hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and hydration, all while preventing signs of premature aging. A nighttime skincare routine is even more important for brown skin to avoid discoloration and acne. Here’s a guide to creating a nighttime routine for brown skin.

Double Cleanse

Double cleansing is crucial for removing makeup, SPF, dirt, and oil that builds up during the day. It allows your skin to breathe and properly absorb active ingredients. Double cleansing means using an oil cleanser or micellar water to remove sunscreen and oil and then following up with a regular cleanser to really clean the skin.

Use a Targeted Serum

Serums deliver a concentrated dose of active ingredients to address specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation and dullness, which are common in brown skin. These serums can also be great for beating inflammation or dryness.

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• Chemical Exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs): Choose products with glycolic or lactic acid for a gentle chemical exfoliation. They work well for brown skin by encouraging cell turnover without the irritation that physical exfoliants can cause.
• Vitamin C: Use a vitamin C serum to brighten skin, fade dark spots, and boost collagen. Look for stable formulations, as vitamin C can oxidize easily.
• Niacinamide: This is excellent for reducing dark spots, calming inflammation, and balancing oil. It’s a great choice for sensitive skin types, too.
• Hyaluronic Acid: For extra hydration, especially if your skin feels dry. It helps plump and smooth the skin’s surface.
• Retinol: Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient for cell turnover, helping with hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and even skin texture. For brown skin, it’s best to start with a low concentration to avoid irritation.

Moisturize

Moisturizing locks in all the previous layers and strengthens the skin barrier, which is essential for brown skin as it’s prone to dryness and dehydration. Look for a thicker cream at night to seal in moisture. Ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and squalane are great choices for brown skin as they reinforce the skin barrier without clogging.

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Use a Facial Oil

A face oil adds an extra layer of hydration, locking in moisture and giving your skin a radiant, plump appearance by morning. While not necessary as part of a nighttime skincare routine, it does feel great adding this step in. Brown skin, especially when dry, can benefit from this step. Choose non-comedogenic oils like rosehip or squalane oil, which won’t clog pores but will keep your skin soft and supple. A good facial oil can also reduce texture and pigmentation over time. Doing a facial massage with a good oil can also help sculpt the face.

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Bonus Tips for Brown Skin:

• Patch Test New Products: Darker skin tones are more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so always test new products on a small area first.
• Invest in Quality Ingredients: For brown skin, ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid are excellent for targeting hyperpigmentation and hydration.
• Stay Consistent: Nighttime skincare is about gradual results. With consistent use, you’ll see your skin become brighter, clearer, and more even over time.

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Final Thoughts

I hope you found this nighttime skincare routine helpful! It’s important to be mindful of the products we put on our faces, especially as brown girls!

With love,
Aditi <3
Aditi Rani – Figuring Out Life in Your Twenties

*Disclaimer: This is not professional advice. Some links are affiliate. By clicking and/or purchasing, I may receive a commission. It does not alter the price or change your buyer experience.