Can I use body serum at night?

Author: Dr. Kellen McCullough  |  Last update: Monday, April 28, 2025

Daily Dose can be used both morning and night depending on your lifestyle. We recommend applying Daily Dose every morning like you would your facial serums to brighten, boost hydration and protect body skin against environmental damage.

When should I apply body serum?

It may feel richer and thicker than a normal body lotion or moisturizer, but the serum will quickly sink into your skin and leave it feeling smooth and soft. Always apply serums after cleansing skin, and before any additional creams or lotions you use as part of your skin care regime.

Is it OK to use serum at night?

Applying serum at night is recommended because the skin undergoes repair while you sleep. Nighttime application enhances absorption, allowing serums to work effectively on specific concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and hydration, promoting a healthier complexion by morning.

How do you use night body serum?

Apply a thin layer over body before bedtime. Massage in an upward sweeping motion to help stimulate blood flow. Focus on areas of the body that could benefit from a more youthful appearance, including the décolleté.

Can I use serum all over my body?

Yes. I mix a few drops of serums that didn't quite ``work'' for my face (for eg: due to bad texture, broke me out etc) into my body lotion as I apply it.

Serum Basics and Common Mistakes

Are body serums better than lotion?

Noticeable results: While many body lotions and creams simply hydrate, body serums are packed with targeted ingredients that deliver real results. Consistent usage translates to healthy, youthful, and radiant-looking skin.

Can I leave serum overnight?

Can I leave serum overnight? Leaving a serum on over night is ideal! As stated above, serums need time to absorb and your skin is most receptive when you're asleep so having a serum on before you go to bed is a great way to have your skin get the most out of the serum.

What type of serum should I use at night?

"When searching for a night serum, look for ingredients that address anti-aging concerns and help skin recover," he says. For example, retinol, bakuchiol, and peptides are great for anyone who wants to address anti-aging concerns. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, squalane, and ceramides can aid in skin repair.

What does overnight serum do?

What It Does: Everyone's skin needs adequate hydration in order to look and feel its best. In addition to drinking plenty of water, try incorporating a hydrating serum into your nighttime skincare routine to help keep your skin visibly plump and well-moisturized.

Can I use serum instead of moisturizer at night?

You can also use serum alone without added moisturizer, but this may reduce the power of the serum's active ingredients. Serums contain active ingredients such as oat oil, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid that pull moisture into the skin for deep hydration.

What is the best time to use serum?

Use the serum twice a day, in the morning and at night, for the best results. Consistency is important, so remember to use the serum every day to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Do you wash off serum?

Washing off serum immediately is generally not recommended since it contains concentrated active ingredients. These ingredients address skincare concerns such as hydration, anti-aging, and brightening. Their effectiveness depends on being absorbed into the skin.

Do you sleep with serum?

Ingredients in serums are fine to use day or night, except those that can make your skin sensitive to the sun such as AHAs and retinol. ¹⁷ But if you're looking to keep your serum usage as stress-free as possible, stick to using them at night and let them do their work while you sleep. Use the right amount.

Is body serum the same as body oil?

A body serum is a lightweight, highly concentrated formula designed to address specific skin concerns with potent ingredients, while a body oil sits atop the skin to lock in moisture.

Do you put lotion first or serum?

In a skin care routine, it is often better to apply serum before moisturizer. This is because serum is typically more lightweight, whereas moisturizer tends to be thicker. Applying serum first can also give the skin more opportunity to absorb the active ingredients.

How many times should I use body serum?

This means the skin can withstand more potent doses of active ingredients, and explains why it requires special treatment, especially when it comes to hydration. Applying a hydrating body serum every single day is essential for maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Are body serums worth it?

Body serums loaded with vitamin C and tranexamic acid are great for fading hyperpigmentation, while AHAs and BHAs help slough away dead skin and get rid of bumps and body acne. Sensitive skin, however, should look to gentle body serums—ideally, those with soothing ingredients like niacinamide, urea, and allantoin.

What is the use of serum in body?

Human serum is additionally a crucial source of electrolytes. Human serum allows substances to stay to the molecules within the serum, effectively binding the substance into the blood, which allows the serum to move fatty acids, thyroid hormones and other substances.

How do you apply serum before bed?

To apply the serum on the face at night, start with clean and toned skin. Dispense a pea-sized amount of serum onto fingertips and gently pat onto the face and neck. Focus on areas of concern. Allow serum to fully absorb before applying moisturiser.

What is the best night moisturizer?

Our top pick for the best night cream is Kiehl's Ultra Facial Advanced Repair Barrier Cream, as it's great for all skin types and provides long-lasting hydration. Another fantastic option is La Roche-Posay's Double Repair Moisturizer, which leaves the skin feeling nourished, soft, and supple—all for under $25.

What's the difference between day and night serum?

Some, such as those with vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, are better to use in the morning. Other serums are designed to be used at night. For example, always use retinol at night. Retinol can increase sun sensitivity in skin, making it a no-go for daytime wear.

What not to do after applying serum?

What not to do after applying serum? After applying face serums you should never use any other skincare product immediately. Wait for a few minutes to allow it to get absorbed in your skin before you follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen.

Can I use only serum at night without moisturizer?

Well, it depends. If you don't have dry skin and aren't in a dry environment or climate, it's easily possible to use just serum without moisturizer. However, using both may harness the most benefits for your skin. When you use a serum, it delivers active ingredients deep into the skin.

What is a good night serum?

Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Multi-Recovery Complex Serum is our favorite night serum because it brightens and hydrates the skin after weeks of consistent use. We also love Naturium's Retinol Serum, a gentle, fast-absorbing formula that noticeably enhances the skin's tone and texture—all for under $25.

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