Cream-free nights – a skincare revolution or a harmful trend?

A new facial care trend is stirring up controversy because... it recommends doing nothing. Sounds like simple laziness? Or maybe this is the key to beautiful skin?

In a world where bathroom shelves are overflowing with cosmetics, the idea of skipping night cream sounds perverse, to say the least. And yet, "cream-free nights" are a trend that's gaining more and more supporters. Where does this need for skincare minimalism come from?

The German chemist Rudolf Hauschka is considered the father of this idea. In the 20th century, he proposed allowing the skin to rest overnight without the added "weight" of creams. He argued that this allows the skin to learn to regulate itself – from combating dryness, to reducing acne, to normalizing sebum production. Today, in the era of conscious skincare, his idea is gaining supporters again.

A cream-free night is simple in theory: after cleansing your face in the evening, you don't apply anything greasy. In practice, however, it requires a bit of preparation. While forgoing cream, you also need to ensure other aspects: a well-ventilated room, adequate air humidity, and, of course, no makeup on your face.

Skincare/Photo: Shutterstock

You can also opt for a "light" version – a gentle toner or water-based gel with a light formula, free of oils and emollients. The key? Give your skin a chance to breathe and restore its natural rhythm.

Cream-free nights aren't for everyone. If you have sensitive, allergy-prone skin, dermatological conditions like psoriasis or atopic dermatitis, or are undergoing hormone therapy , this method may do more harm than good. Women with a weakened hydrolipid barrier should also stick to proven rituals and properly moisturize and nourish their skin, especially at night, when it regenerates most quickly.

The cream-free nighttime trend may be an interesting proposition for those who feel their skin is "overstimulated" by cosmetics. But like any trend, this one also requires common sense. Because while "doing nothing" can be tempting, skincare isn't just about pleasure—it's a conscious decision about what our skin truly needs.