How to Get Your Beauty Sleep The Right Way
The key to a healthier you probably lies in your sleeping routine. We’re serious… and we’re here to help.
Photo: Pinterest
There is a long list of benefits when it comes to getting the optimal amount of sleep regularly. Experts recommend getting 7 to 8 quality hours of sleep each night. Although this number may sound difficult or even nearly impossible for some people, prioritizing sleep in your daily schedule can work wonders for your mood, skin, and overall health. Not all sleep is equally restorative, so to ensure you are getting the best sleep possible, try your best to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. Hitting snooze is a no-go!
First, let’s dive into some of the main reasons why getting your beauty sleep is so incredibly important.
Stronger Immune System
Your body needs a sufficient amount of sleep in order to produce the proteins that fight off inflammation and infection. If you consistently aren’t getting enough sleep, you have a higher chance of getting sick since your immune system becomes weakened. A weakened immune system also aggravates skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Therefore, getting the optimal amount of sleep benefits your overall health.
Improved Mental Health
Not only does getting enough sleep affect your outer beauty, it also affects your inner beauty significantly. In addition to boosting productivity, sleep helps to improve self-esteem. Studies show that those who get enough sleep have a more positive perception of themselves than people who consistently don’t sleep enough. Additionally, insomnia increases your likelihood of developing depression and anxiety, as not sleeping enough or frequently waking up in the middle of the night alters your brain’s activity and neurochemicals that affect your mood and thinking. If this sounds like something you’re experiencing, be sure to consult your doctor about solutions.
Brighter, De-puffed Eyes
By sleeping on your back, you can minimize puffiness, bags, dark circles around the eye area without the need for heavy concealer or under-eye ice packs. Gravity will do its thing by ensuring that fluid doesn’t pool around the eye area overnight. Pro tip: skip the alcohol right before bedtime as it can contribute to puffiness the next morning.
Stronger and Healthier Hair
Getting enough sleep is a large part of proper protein synthesis when it comes to hair growth. Studies have shown that melatonin, the hormone known to regulate your sleep cycle, has an effect on hair growth. So, get on the best sleep schedule for you and your hair will thank you later!
A Glowing Complexion
When you actually get 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep, you body’s cortisol (or stress hormone) levels become more balanced. Studies show that new skin cells grow faster while you sleep. This leads to more rejuvenated skin and fewer breakouts. Keep scrolling to shop our favorite pillowcase for clear skin.
Now, what should you do before going to sleep to ensure that you have the best night ever? Here are our top tips.
A Gentle Facial Cleanser
Applying a gentle facial cleanser each night before bed is a necessary step to ensure your skin is best prepared for a good night’s sleep. Whatever your price point, these are the two cleansers we recommend.
Cetaphil Gentle Face Cleanser
Shop now; amazon.com, $12.38 (pack of 2)
Price as of September 10, 2020
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser
Shop now; bloomingdales.com, $22.00
Night Creams and Oils
This night cream we’re currently loving helps to soothe your skin, keep it ultra hydrated, restore elasticity, and even minimize wrinkles and fine lines. The Sunday Riley Night Oil uses retinol to reduce signs of premature aging and bring on a smoother complexion in as little as four weeks, all while you sleep.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
Shop now; amazon.com, $13.98
Price as of September 10, 2020
Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil
Shop now; bloomingdales.com, $55.00
Silk Pillowcase
I recently invested in a silk pillowcase and it’s been one of the best investments for my sleep routine. Silk is breathable and a natural temperature regulator, making it perfect for a pillowcase. Known to minimize static and smooth hair, silk is an incredible luxury. When it comes to the skin, your pores are able to breathe better while using a silk pillowcase than when using a cotton pillowcase.
Slip Silk Pillowcase
Shop now; amazon.com, $89.00
The White Company Silk Pillowcase
Shop now; nordstrom.com, $45.00
Lavender and Chamomile Essential Oils
Lavender essential oil is calming, helping you to fall asleep faster. Chamomile essential oil has a lulling effect to enhance sleep, improving your overall sleep quality.
Lavender Essential Oil
Shop now; amazon.com, $6.99
Price as of September 10, 2020
Deep Sleep Pillow Spray
Shop now; nordstrom.com, $29.00
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