9. SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
BEST SKIN-SMOOTHING NIGHT CREAM
PROS
- Measurably smoothed skin texture
- Increased firmness by 28% in Lab testing
- Soaks in fast
CONS
- Not as moisturizing as other night creams tested
SkinBetter Science’s night treatment, a GH Beauty Award-winner, is supercharged with age-fighting actives including retinol, glycolic and lactic acids, and peptides to smooth skin’s surface. GH Beauty Lab testing with the Cutometer machine showed that it increased skin firmness by 28% in four weeks. It also earned the top score for smoothing texture in Visia Complexion Analyzer measurements, however it was not very hydrating compared to other formulas.
Testers gave it high marks for absorbing quickly. Two reported that their “fine lines were diminished.” Another echoed that it “minimized some fine forehead lines.”
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, glycolic and lactic acids, peptides |
|---|---|
| Main Benefits | Firming, smoothing |
| Best For | Aging skin |
| Size | 1 oz. |
10. Mary Kay TimeWise Nighttime Recovery
BEST NIGHT CREAM FOR OILY SKIN
PROS
- Oil-free, lightweight gel
- Doesn’t clog pores or irritate skin
- Reduces wrinkles
CONS
- May not be moisturizing enough for dry skin types
An oil-free, gel-like formula infused with soothing chamomile and antioxidants makes GH Seal Star Mary Kay’s night treatment the perfect match for oily skin types. GH Beauty Lab data evaluation confirmed that it is non-comedogenic (not pore-clogging) and doesn’t cause skin irritation, while significantly decreasing wrinkles, including on the forehead, starting at two weeks of use. Note that the lightweight texture may not feel hydrating enough for those with dry skin.
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, niacinamide, vitamin C, resveratrol, peptides |
|---|---|
| Main Benefits | Soothing, line-smoothing |
| Best For | Oily, combination or acne-prone skin |
| Size | 1 oz. |