What Happens To Your Skin While You're Sleeping?
Posted: 12 March 2025
We all know that our nighttime skincare routine is important, but have you ever stopped to wonder why?
Well, we sat down with the team at Vanessa Megan to find out what actually happens to your skin at night (and trust us, it’s working harder than you think).
Between 9 PM and midnight, our skin enters regeneration mode. This is when melatonin production increases, helping repair any UV-induced damage from the day.
- Vanessa Megan
So while you’re winding down, your skin’s renewal rate nearly doubles, making it the perfect time to feed it all those nourishing and natural, science-backed products.
But what does your skin actually need at every age to make the most of this repair window? Here’s what the experts recommend…
Skincare In Your 20s: Exfoliation & Antioxidants
"Your 20s are all about keeping that youthful glow while preventing future damage," says Vanessa Megan.
- Use Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) to exfoliate gently and clear congestion
- Load up on vitamins A & E (these antioxidants are your best friends) to keep your skin bright, healthy, and protected
Skincare In Your 30s: Hydration & Collagen Boosting
"As you step into your 30s, your skin starts losing its natural hyaluronic acid, causing a dip in moisture levels," the team explains.
- Hyaluronic acid helps plump and deeply hydrate your skin
- Opt for products that boost collagen
Skincare In Your 40s & Beyond: Strengthen & Rebuild
"In your 40s and beyond, focus on strengthening and rebuilding your skin’s foundation," they tell us. "Peptides and amino acids become crucial as they act as building blocks for collagen production,"
- Peptides & amino acids support collagen production and elasticity.
- Ceramides reinforce your skin’s barrier
- Bakuchiol (a natural retinol alternative) helps smooth and firm skin
Life's busy, and it’s easy to put yourself last. But taking care of your skin at night isn’t just about beauty, it’s about getting back that well-deserved “me time”.
And because we care about your sleep just as much as your skincare, we’ve created the ultimate guide to help you rest better.
Download the 7 Days to Better Sleep Guide and start putting yourself first.
Feeling inspired?
