Both go on as the last step at night. The difference is mostly texture, how thickly you apply them, and how often.
The difference
- Night cream: your everyday nighttime moisturizer — applied in a normal layer, every night.
- Sleeping mask: a leave-on mask, often gel or cushiony, applied in a slightly thicker layer to seal in your routine — nightly or a few times a week.
Our examples
- Freshly Juiced Vitamin E Mask — a cushiony sleeping mask with vitamin E, niacinamide and ceramide NP. Contains essential oils.
- Rich Moist Soothing Cream — a rich night cream for dry skin. Contains essential oils.
- Midnight Blue Calming Cream — a no-added-fragrance option for red, reactive skin.
When a sleeping mask is worth it
- Skin looks dull or tired in the morning.
- You want a glow-focused boost before an event.
- Winter air leaves skin dry by morning.
How to use one
- Finish your usual routine (you can skip the night cream on mask nights, or layer the mask on top if you're dry).
- Apply an even, slightly thicker layer.
- Cleanse in the morning.
More: what skin does while you sleep, is the Vitamin E Mask right for you?
FAQ
Can a sleeping mask replace night cream?
On mask nights, yes, for many people. Very dry skin may layer a mask over a night cream.
How often should I use a sleeping mask?
Anywhere from a few times a week to nightly, depending on your skin and the formula.
Do I wash off a sleeping mask?
Leave it on overnight and cleanse in the morning.
Note: figures come from cosmetic clinical/consumer studies measuring the appearance and feel of skin. They are not medical claims; individual results vary; not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. Always patch test.
