Morning or night: when to use a dark spot cream

Many people ask whether a dark spot cream should be used in the morning or at night. For most creams, the answer is: both can work, if your skin is comfortable, and sunscreen is non-negotiable in the morning.

The short answer

Why many people like night

At night you are not exposed to sun, skin sits undisturbed for hours, and you can follow with a moisturiser without worrying about sunscreen or make-up. It is the gentlest way to start.

Why the morning also works

Using the cream in the morning, under sunscreen, gives more regular contact. The key is sunscreen on top, every day. A dark spot cream without sunscreen is a waste, because the sun re-darkens the spots.

How to start slowly

1. Day 1: patch test behind the ear or on the inner arm for 24 hours.
2. Week 1: a pea-sized amount at night only.
3. Week 2: add the morning if there is no redness, stinging or dryness.
4. Always: sunscreen last in the morning.

How much and how often

A pea-sized amount is enough for the face and neck. More cream does not work faster and can irritate. For Youth Face Beauty Cream, once or twice a day is the usual directions. Keep it away from the eyes and lips.

What not to mix it with

• Several strong products at once, such as scrubs, peels and retinol on the same evening.
• Waxing, threading or a facial on the same day.

If skin feels irritated

Cut back to every other night, add a plain moisturiser, and avoid new products. If redness, burning or itching continues, stop and see a dermatologist.

Related: Evening routine · Daytime routine

This guide is general information about cosmetic skincare and does not replace advice from a qualified dermatologist. Results vary from person to person.