If your morning routine is about protection, your evening routine is about correction. While you sleep, your skin enters a natural repair and regeneration cycle — cell turnover accelerates, collagen synthesis increases and the skin barrier works to repair the day's damage. The right evening routine works with these biological processes to dramatically amplify their effect.
Step 1 — Remove SPF and Makeup
Non-negotiable first step. Bioderma Sensibio H2O for sensitive skin, Bioderma Sebium H2O for oily and acne-prone. Apply with a cotton pad until it comes away clean.
Step 2 — Cleanse
Follow with your regular cleanser to ensure all residue is removed before applying actives.
Step 3 — Exfoliate (2-3 Nights Per Week)
Do not exfoliate on the same nights you use retinol — alternate between the two. SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight for brightening and texture; ZO Skin Health Complexion Renewal Pads or Oil Control Pads for pore congestion and oil; ZO Skin Health Exfoliation Accelerator for sensitive skin.
Step 4 — Retinol (Alternate Nights)
The most powerful corrective ingredient available without a prescription. Start at a low concentration. ZO Skin Health Retinol Skin Brightener 0.5% for beginners; ZO Skin Health Retinol Skin Brightener 1% or SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 for intermediate; ZO Skin Health Radical Night Repair 1% for advanced; ZO Skin Health Retinol + Acne Complex for acne-prone.
Step 5 — Targeted Serum
After retinol or exfoliant has absorbed: ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum for ageing; SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier for hydration; SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective for calming on retinol nights.
Step 6 — Eye Treatment
Apply before face moisturiser using a gentle tapping motion. ZO Skin Health Intense Eye Creme or SkinCeuticals Eye Balm belong here.
Step 7 — Moisturise
A richer formula than morning: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 for dry/mature; ZO Skin Health Recovery Creme or Renewal Creme for normal/combination; ZO Skin Health Hydrating Creme for oily.
The Golden Rules
Never use retinol and exfoliating acids on the same night. Always cleanse thoroughly before actives. Give each layer 60 seconds to absorb. Be consistent — benefits are cumulative.
Browse our clinical range or book a skin consultation for a personalised evening routine.