Why Are Day Creams and Night Creams Formulated Differently?
Creams are semi-solid preparations in the form of thick emulsions containing at least 60% water. These formulations include one or more active compounds that are dissolved or dispersed in a suitable base.
Their consistency and rheological properties are determined by the type of emulsion used, either water-in-oil (W/O) or oil-in-water (O/W). The selection of emulsifying agents and the proportion of each liquid phase play a crucial role in determining whether water or oil becomes the dispersed phase.
- Functions and Characteristics of Day Creams
- Functions and Characteristics of Night Creams
- Differences in Active Ingredient Composition Between Day and Night Creams
- Mechanisms of Action of Active Ingredients in Night Creams
- Reasons for Using Certain Active Ingredients at Night
- Considerations in Using Day and Night Creams
Functions and Characteristics of Day Creams
Day creams are formulated to protect the skin during daytime activities from various external factors that may cause damage. In general, day creams are classified as products that provide optimal protection against UV radiation, pollution, and other environmental stressors.
Their composition is usually dominated by the water phase, resulting in a lighter texture that absorbs easily and feels comfortable when worn under makeup. Day creams typically contain sunscreens to prevent photodamage as well as antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals.
Functions and Characteristics of Night Creams
Night creams are designed to remain on the skin throughout the night, helping to replenish essential nutrients lost during daytime activities. Night creams must be able to deliver optimal nourishment during the skin’s nighttime regeneration process.
The oil phase needs to remain in continuous contact with the skin and quickly form a protective layer without being easily removed. This condition causes water particles to become trapped within the oil phase, making the product more resistant to washing. Night creams function to provide intensive moisturization and help lock in skin hydration.
Differences in Active Ingredient Composition Between Day and Night Creams
The effectiveness of a product largely depends on the active ingredients it contains. One of the fundamental differences between day creams and night creams lies in their active ingredient composition.
Night creams generally contain retinoids, peptides, ceramides, vitamins, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients have been shown to improve skin texture, elasticity, and tone, while targeting concerns such as fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles.
In contrast, day creams are supplemented with UV-protective active ingredients in the form of sunscreens and do not contain photosensitive or photolabile ingredients such as retinoids, certain forms of vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and other compounds that may increase sensitivity when exposed to sunlight.
Mechanisms of Action of Active Ingredients in Night Creams
Retinoids, particularly tretinoin, are among the most effective agents for addressing signs of aging. These compounds stimulate collagen production and increase cell turnover, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin texture.
Peptides are also important ingredients because they enhance skin barrier function, stimulate collagen synthesis, and reduce inflammation. Certain peptides, such as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, have been proven effective in reducing wrinkles by increasing collagen production and skin elasticity.
Ceramides, as natural skin lipids, play a vital role in maintaining and strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier. Vitamins C and E, which are potent antioxidants, help combat oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.
Vitamin C, in particular, also provides a brightening effect by inhibiting melanin production and stimulating collagen synthesis. Hyaluronic acid, with its exceptional ability to bind water, has been shown to provide deep hydration, plump the skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Reasons for Using Certain Active Ingredients at Night
The use of these ingredients is more strongly recommended at night because the skin enters a phase of intensive regeneration during this time. Collagen production increases, cell turnover accelerates, and skin permeability rises, allowing active ingredients to penetrate more easily and work more effectively.
Minimal UV exposure at night also helps maintain the stability of active ingredients, especially those that are easily degraded by light or have the potential to increase photosensitivity. Therefore, certain active ingredients are only recommended for nighttime use.
Considerations in Using Day and Night Creams
The distinction between day creams and night creams is designed to help consumers choose products that best suit their skin’s needs. Day creams can be used at night since they generally contain only antioxidants, moisturizers, brightening agents, and sunscreens.
However, their use at night is less optimal because nighttime skin needs focus more on intensive hydration and cellular repair. Conversely, night creams are not recommended for daytime use as they may increase the risk of irritation or sensitivity due to UV exposure.
Read more:
5 Benefits of Conducting Active Ingredient Testing for Skincare in a Testing Laboratory
The formulation of day and night creams is not determined solely by active ingredient claims, but also by overall product quality, stability, and safety. Differences in emulsion phases, active ingredient characteristics, as well as the potential for irritation and photosensitivity must be verified through standardized laboratory testing to ensure that products perform as intended and are safe for use at the appropriate time.
To ensure that day creams and night creams meet quality and safety requirements, laboratory testing is a critical step in cosmetic product development and evaluation. IML Testing and Research provides cosmetic laboratory testing services, including stability testing, safety assessments, and quality parameter analysis, to support reliable, well-documented formulations that comply with regulatory standards.
Author: Delfia
Editor: Sabilla Reza
References :
Kolli, S. S., et al. “Topical Retinoids in Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review.” American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, vol. 20, 2019, pp. 345-365.
Lyons A.B., Moy L., Moy R., Tung R. 2019. Circadian rhythm and the skin: a review of the literature. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology. 12(9): 42.
Mohiuddin A.K. 2019. Skin care creams: formulation and use. Dermatol Clin Res. 5(1): 238-271.
