When it comes to your beauty routine, sleep may be the closest thing there is to a fountain of youth. Your body repairs itself and recovers while you snooze, and that leads to a long list of benefits for your looks. The key is to get enough shut-eye – 7 to 9 quality hours each night.
A consistently full night of rest changes your appearance for the better. Among the many benefits of sleep for skin, a more radiant complexion, reduction of fine lines, and less inflammation are the most prevalent indicators. It’s a beauty trick that costs nothing, but is invaluable as it can help improve skin and hair. Take advantage of the benefits that sleep provides, learn how to maximize your sleep quality, and find ways to sleep more so you can wake up looking and feeling your best.
Prevent the Skin from Sagging
The skin repairs itself overnight and produces collagen to keep the face looking fuller. This natural process is one of the main benefits of sleep for skin as part of preventative care. Without adequate sleep, your skin may start to sag and the appearance of fine lines will become noticeable due to the lack of plumpness and elasticity.
Give your face an extra boost of moisture before you go to bed by applying a good skincare product or moisturizer all over the face and neck. If the air lacks humidity, it can draw out the skin’s moisture and leave it looking less supple. Use a humidifier to help reduce dry, flaky patches on the face and return the skin to a healthier state.
Achieve a More Radiant Complexion and Healthy Hair
Whenever you skimp on sleep, no matter how much or little, the next morning your skin and hair appear duller, lack color, and there may be dark circles under your eyes. Sleeping is a way for your body to rejuvenate itself and get the blood flowing to your face. When you aren’t getting a good night’s sleep on a regular basis, the effects of missing out will eventually catch up with you.
Consistency is key when it comes to sleep patterns and following a circadian rhythm. Sleeping ten hours one night and six hours the next will still have a negative effect on your skin’s appearance. Start following a regular sleep schedule and see how your skin starts to change for the better. Finding a routine is sometimes all it takes to bring the glow back to your skin complexion and hair style.
Reduce Puffy Eyes
Often, a lack of sleep leads to bloodshot or puffy eyes due to poor circulation. When the area retains fluid, it causes your face to appear slightly swollen. In addition to getting enough hours of shut eye, slightly adjust your sleep position and elevate your neck and head on your pillow. This will help any fluids from backing up, a common occurrence if you suffer from allergies, seasonal colds, or acid reflux.
Sleep deprivation happens for a number of reasons: stress, illness, insomnia, the list goes on and on. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, learn ways to maximize your quality of sleep to get the amount you need to stay healthy. You’ll see an improvement in how you feel as well as positive changes to your skin.
How to Maximize Your Sleep Quality
· Adjust your schedule
Make sleep adjustments little-by-little, and give yourself a grace period to adjust to these changes. The goal is to go to bed at the same time, and get up at the same time – including on the weekends!
· Optimize your bedroom environment
Make sure your bedroom supports healthy sleeping habits. Keep things quiet, dim to dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature. Reassess the lifespan and quality of your mattress, pillows, and bedding for the ultimate in comfort.
· Treat yourself well
Get some exercise and keep a healthy diet. According to the CDC, being physically active during the day, but at least two hours before bedtime, can help you fall asleep more easily at night. If you’re hungry at bedtime, eat a light, healthy snack.