My Winter Night-Time Routine (+ Skincare!)

I thought it would be fun and different to share my night-time routine in today’s blog post! I don’t know why but I always love learning about other people’s morning and night routines. I find a lot of comfort in routines, and a relaxing night routine can calm you right before bed and help you sleep a lot better at night. I’ve always been an extreme night owl, staying up into the wee hours of the morning to get my homework done, answer emails or write blog posts. However for the past year I’ve really been working hard to change this! Now 9 o’clock rolls around and I’m yawning and ready for bed. Anyway, let’s get started!
The first thing I do when I start winding down for bed is make a hot cup of tea. This is so wonderful in the Winter months because it warms you from inside out! Right now I’m really loving this organic Chamomile with Lavender tea – there’s no caffeine in it, so you don’t have to worry abut it keeping you up at night, plus it tastes amazing and has a very calming effect. (I buy mine at my local Harris Teeter!)

Next step: changing into my pajamas! I love these reindeer slippers for my feet, and whatever pajamas I have on, I always wear this super fuzzy robe on top (it’s the one I always wear on snapchat πŸ™‚ I also really love wearing fuzzy socks at night… I always kick them off in the middle of the night, but my feet get cold easily and it feels good to wear them when I get in bed. I blogged about these before and recommend them – they really feel like butter on your feet!

After I’m all cozied up in my pajamas, fuzzy socks and robe, it’s time for skincare. I didn’t used to be big on skincare, but the older I get the more I realize what a difference it can make in your skin and how you age. Twice I week I use my Clarisonic Mia to wash my face, which is truly phenomenal at taking off makeup and cleaning your skin. I’ve noticed a big difference in pore size since I started using it… not only are my pores smaller but my skin feel a hundred times softer. The great thing about this product is that it cleans so deeply that whatever moisturizers or serums you apply afterward really soak into your face, so you get their full benefits. (Side note: the one I have is smaller than the normal one and easier to travel with – it would also make a great Christmas gift). I follow up with THIS moisturizer afterward – if you have dry skin in the Winter, this product is a game changer. It’s really lightweight, contains no harsh chemicals but also hydrates better than any moisturizer I’ve ever used. 
On the other nights that I don’t use my Clarisonic Mia, I stick to this oil cleanser and this moisturizer. I started using this duo back in the spring and have since re-ordered them three or four times (you can read all about how these products changed my life in this blog post). This combination just works really well for my skin and keeps my face both clear of acne and hydrated. 
Once per week I also like using a mask, whether it’s a hydrating sheet mask or one specifically targeted to a skin issue. Whenever I’m having a breakout (during that time of the month) I have found that this clearing mask works AMAZINGLY well. It was clinically developed to fight breakouts and black and white heads and really works. I sometimes use it as a spot treatment if I don’t want to treat my whole face, and I always follow it up with this moisturizer afterward.

After skincare, I’ll take my contacts out, floss, brush my teeth and then get into bed. I keep Dior’s creme de rose lip balm on my nightstand and slather my lips with it before bed. I hate hate hate waking up in the middle of the night with chapped lips, so this is a lifesaver! The reason I like the Dior one so much is because of the scent – it’s a wonderful, calming smell and very relaxing when you are curled up in bed. For the next 10 to 15 minutes I usually read a book – I try not to use my phone before bed, but I do read books on my phone. My compromise is turning my phone to airplane mode so that I won’t be tempted to check social media, and then turn the book to “night mode” so it’s a black screen with white writing. A brightly lit screen can stimulate your brain and make you stay awake longer! (By the way, the book I’m reading right now is SO GOOD it might be even better than the ones in my last book review! Let me know if you want another!)

And finally, my last step before I fall asleep is turning on my essential oil diffuser. I buy all my essential oils from Whole Foods instead of ordering them online, but Amazon does carry this brand. My favorite for bedtime is “Peaceful Sleep” which contains orange, tangerine, lavender, chamomile, ylang ylang, and sandalwood oil. I also mix this with pure lavender oil because I love lavender! I put 10 drops of each into the essential oil diffuser and turn it on right before I fall asleep. It’s not an overpowering or overwhelming scent at all, it’s so calming and really does help me fall asleep and have a more peaceful sleep. 
Your turn! I’d love to hear something in your night-time routine that helps calm or soothe you. Let me know in the comments πŸ™‚
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69 Comments

  1. Great post!! I am always recommending that my clients develop a relaxing bedtime routine. Thanks for sharing yours.

    12.7.16Reply
  2. What book are you reading?

    12.7.16Reply
  3. I always write in my journal and practice yoga 15-20 minutes before bed. Oh, and I started to pre-pack my lunch so I'm not rushing in the morning before work. It helps so much! x

    http://www.insearchofsheila.com

    12.7.16Reply
  4. Thanks for sharing the lovely and helpful post! I believe always in the effect of lavender πŸ™‚
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
    http://www.dressedwithsoul.com

    12.7.16Reply
  5. Love the post! That mug is too cute!

    xo, Laura
    http://www.brightandbeautifulblog.com

    12.7.16Reply
  6. I have seriously been wanting an oil diffuser! I think I need to put it on my Christmas List!
    Hannah
    glamlifeliving.com

    12.7.16Reply
  7. First off, LOVE your nail color! Second, these are all awesome products! Really want to try that BareMinerals cleansing oil!

    http://www.rosyoutlookblog.com

    12.7.16Reply
  8. Great post. Always good to relaxed before bed. I like to read a bit before going to sleep.

    12.7.16Reply
  9. Maybe this is a silly question but I'm not familiar with diffusers- does yours switch off automatically when all of the oil is used up? That Now Foods oil is so well reviewed that I'm considering trying it, but falling asleep with a warmer on seems like a less-than-ideal situation for my heavy sleeping!

    12.7.16Reply
    • Hey Leanne, my oil diffuser doesn't warm up, it has really gentle vibrations that release the oils. It cuts off when the water level gets down to a certain point. I bought it from Whole Foods!

      12.7.16Reply
  10. So interesting! I've been having a lot of trouble falling asleep lately (bedtime is getting wayyy too late for this girl!) so I might have to try some of these teas & oils to help. And yes, another book review!

    12.7.16Reply
  11. I, too, love reading about morning and nighttime routines! Think I have found a few new products to try out. Another book review would be great!

    12.7.16Reply
  12. This sounds so relaxing. I love the glam glow masks they are my favorite!
    Kelsey | petiteinherpearls.blogspot.com

    12.7.16Reply
  13. I always allow one hour for Netflix and one hour for reading before bed. I have found that it works best with my body and winds me down. 8 also use my diffuser during this time. I use DoTerra essential oils and love them. I either use breathe or serenity at night! Love your blog so much! οΏ½οΏ½

    12.7.16Reply
  14. I always allow one hour for Netflix and one hour for reading before bed. This works best to wind me down. I always use my diffuser during this time and either use breathe or serenity of my DoTerra essential oils. Love your blog!❀️

    12.7.16Reply
  15. I want to try the oil! Looks great:P

    Shall We Sasa

    12.7.16Reply
  16. Great post! I drink the exact same tea every night too…it makes me so relaxed!

    xo, Lauren
    http://www.itsallgoodblog.com

    12.7.16Reply
  17. Love this post and I love book reviews from you! Also how do you turn your phone to night mode to change the lighting?

    12.7.16Reply
  18. As always nice post πŸ˜‰ Thanks dear!

    http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com

    12.7.16Reply
  19. I also use the same mask and I am a big believer in oils! Glamglow is amazing! Thanks for sharing πŸ™‚

    Brittany πŸ™‚
    http://www.kingdomofsequins.com

    12.7.16Reply
  20. I love when you do beauty posts like this! Hope to see more in 2017! : )

    Brooke du jour
    http://www.brookedujour.com

    12.7.16Reply
  21. I'm curious about what book you're reading.. I've been slowly reading all the books you've been recommending and have been loving them!

    Carrie | http://carrieelise.com/

    12.7.16Reply
  22. Great post! Thanks for sharing!!!

    http://www.memoriesandmacchiatos.com

    12.7.16Reply
  23. What an adorable post! I just stumbled across your blog and I love it. Would love to know what book you're reading.
    xoxo
    Samantha
    http://www.thepalegeranium.com

    12.7.16Reply
  24. spill the book!

    12.7.16Reply
  25. Great post! This is the first time I came upon your blog. I tend to read a few pages (or chapters) write in my gratitude journal and always say my prayers!

    http://www.pixiechickproductions.com/read/french-breakfast-muffins

    12.7.16Reply
  26. That seems like a really calming routine. I could really use some inspiration for that since I have trouble falling asleep most nights…

    Marta – http://www.aroundcolours.blogspot.com

    12.7.16Reply
  27. I really want to try glam glow's products!
    Aleeha xXx
    http://www.halesaaw.com/

    12.7.16Reply
  28. Love the post. I am also an avid reader, and am currently reading Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes per your last recommendation post- and I am HOOKED. So definitely keep of the book recs, as I seem to have a similar taste! Also, I have found that using a Kindle Paperwhite vs my iPhone works better for me. No eye strain and I fall asleep faster.

    12.7.16Reply
  29. I love this post. So fun! I have an oil diffuser too and its so relaxing!
    Kari
    http://sweetteasweetie.com/honey-bunches-oats-almond-treats/

    12.7.16Reply
  30. Love reading other people's routines! I follow a similar schedule-curious, what product do you use with your Clarisonic? I recently got one and the cleanser that came with it just ran out and I'm not sure what to use it with now! Thanks!

    12.7.16Reply
  31. yes! what book are you reading? Ive read some of your suggestions and they have been great!

    12.7.16Reply
  32. I love lavender scent. I have a spray and I like to spray it on my bedsheets before I sleep. My husband hates it though haha. I guess lavender is an acquired scent.

    Mich x
    https://michjosephblog.wordpress.com

    12.7.16Reply
  33. I use lavender in my diffuser after a stressful day! So calming…
    Mal
    http://www.badwolfbrunch.com

    12.7.16Reply
  34. What kind of cleanser do you use when you use your clarisonic?? i LOVE my clarisonic! Thanks!

    12.7.16Reply
  35. I haven't tried an oil diffuser before, I might give that a go! Always love reading about other peoples routines!

    Lauren,
    http://www.atouchofsoutherngrace.com

    12.7.16Reply
  36. I also love knowing morning and nighttime routines! Weird but satisfying!
    It's also inspiring to me.

    http://www.anavicioso.com

    12.7.16Reply
  37. I'm trying to get into routine as well! I just turned 24 and want to take care of my skin so I just bought an antioxidant serum for nighttime. We'll see how it goes!

    xo, jess

    alljessedup.com

    12.8.16Reply
  38. That glam glow mask is amazing! And Ive always wanted to try essential oils. Im thinking of adding them into my Christmas wishlist πŸ™‚
    XO Janina β™‘
    http://janinafran.blogspot.ca

    12.8.16Reply
  39. sounds like a great night routine.

    http://www.amysfashionblog.com/blog-home/

    12.8.16Reply
  40. Hi Caitlin!

    Thanks for sharing your routine! I read the book you recommend, The Darkest Corner, on vacation over Thanksgiving and it was great! Which one are you reading now? On a different side note, which nail polish do you have on in the pictures?

    12.8.16Reply
  41. Essential oils are essential! Will have to check out the stock at Whole Foods. Where is your mug from, Cait? Love it! x

    Jen | affecionada

    12.8.16Reply
  42. Such great tips! Essential oils have helped me rest and relax so much since I have started using them!

    http://www.lifeandmessyhair.com/

    12.8.16Reply
  43. Love this post! I always drink tea as well!

    Kalina | Simply Semisweet

    12.8.16Reply
  44. Loving the idea of drinking tea before bed! Totally need to start doing that πŸ™‚

    BlondieInTheCity.com

    12.8.16Reply
  45. I SO love your SO CUTE whittle puppy and GAWJUSS Rudolph Slippers! hehe!

    12.8.16Reply
  46. I used to have a night time routine too but often it just doesnΒ΄t work out. I am glad for you you found yours and I love the lash cup. So so cute.

    Greetings Kati

    madame-schischi.blogspot.com

    12.8.16Reply
  47. Great post! Love all your picks! Especially the Rudolph slippers are so cute. x
    http://www.isabellaschoice.com x

    12.8.16Reply
  48. I love when you do posts like this!!!!! This is brilliant and keep them coming! I love all these steps and I'm going to incorporate them into my routine too especially the oils. xoxo

    12.8.16Reply
  49. I seriously thought I was the only one who HATED going to bed with dry/chapped lipped! Dior's lipbalm is my FAVORITE! The smell is amazing too!

    12.8.16Reply
  50. I just got 2 awesome diffusers from Amazon for only $18 each. They are powerful little things too! What book are you reading now? I'm always looking for the next good book. If you are looking for any new reads, try Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah. SO SO good.

    12.8.16Reply
  51. I love you book reviews! I read 2 based on your last recommendations and I loved them! Keep them coming!

    12.8.16Reply
  52. I'm obsessed with your nightstand!

    http://thegirlswhobrunch.com

    12.8.16Reply
  53. do you use an eyelash serum or lash extensions? How do you get your eyelashes so long and beautiful??

    12.8.16Reply
  54. What book are you reading? Looking for one to start next! Thank you πŸ™‚

    12.9.16Reply
  55. Love this post!

    http://www.alysagil.com

    12.9.16Reply
  56. Love this post!

    http://www.alysagil.com

    12.9.16Reply
  57. I love reading about other people's routines too! Haha I kick my socks off at night as well. Great routine, it's very similar to mine . Sometimes I watch an episode of my favourite show, it also helps me relax. xx

    cocobellablog.com

    12.10.16Reply
  58. Loving all of these tips! I'll have to give that tea a try.

    xx Kathryn
    http://www.chicandshimmer.com

    12.10.16Reply
  59. I love book reviews! Please share more πŸ™‚ Specially the good ones!

    12.10.16Reply
  60. great post,I like how bright your photos are and your house looks amazing xo

    https://todaysouhaila.blogspot.com/

    12.12.16Reply
  61. A new subscriber reporting on duty!

    What a wonderful post! Your pictures are amazing as well as your house πŸ™‚

    x Lilly
    http://bellefernal.com

    12.15.16Reply
  62. Thank you so much for this post! I am in the process of trying to get into a good bed time routine and I love reading and watching other people's routine as well!

    1.9.17Reply
  63. ds

    5.24.17Reply
  64. I just stumbled upon this post while Christmas shopping for my girlfriend and I was actually wondering where you got those slippers from, I'm thinking about buying her a pair for Christmas.

    11.20.17Reply
  65. I just stumbled upon this post while Christmas shopping and I was wondering where you got those slippers from, I'm thinking about buying my girlfriend a pair for Christmas.

    11.20.17Reply