Night time moisturizers in many circumstances have been a marketing success rather than a breakthrough in skin care. Some products, however, are quite helpful. The market is flooded with products that in essence do nothing, "You have a lot of high-priced night creams that really don't have the bang for the buck," according to Dr. Patricia K. Farris, a New Orleans dermatologist.

Night Cream Producers Blatantly Overstate Benefits

Makers exaggerate the individual results that most women see after using a night time moisturizer. These companies are out to sell a product and, of course, try to portray it in the best light possible. However some doctors believe that the companies behind the products go too far. "These companies make outrageous statements, claiming that the skin undergoes all sorts of strange processes at night that it doesn't during the day. This is patently wrong and without proof," according to Dr. Les Baumann, professor of dermatology at the University of Miami.

According to Doctors There are Several Proven Anti-Aging Compounds

Retinol, Vitamin C, and certain Peptides (proteins) have been proven anti-aging compounds. "Night time moisturizers should contain retinol because sunlight renders retinol inactive," according to Dr. Baumann. Dermatologists unanimously agree that a good night cream should contain Peptides and Vitamin C because they boost collagen production. Doing so reduces wrinkles and helps increase skin firmness.

In order to work, night time moisturizers must (1) contain the proper ingredients in the proper concentration; and (2) be given time to work, a minimum of 5 hours a night for 8 weeks. If the creams are used only sporadically the desired results cannot be seen, "It's sort of like when you need a blood transfusion and instead of putting in an IV you just splash the blood on your skin. Similarly a moisturizer won't do any good unless it penetrates and to do so it must have time to work," says Seattle based dermatologist Dr. Sandy Read.

The Bottom Line

A night time moisturizer need not cost arm and a leg but quality creams should contain Peptides, Vitamin C, and Retinol. Many reputable brands can be found online using search engines but I do recommend a quality source, http://www.nighttimemoisturizers.com . This website is devoted solely to night creams and, of course, night time moisturizers. They have a wealth of knowledge and research on the matter. Do your research, do not fall prey to advertisers that promise much and fail to deliver the right ingredients in the right proportion. A quality night cream can help you fight the effects of aging, soothe the skin, and boost collagen production.