Fancy a lie in? We all know that sleep can help lower stress levels, reduce inflammation and help maintain a healthy mind and overall wellbeing. But, what if we told you that there is a connection between sleep and skin health?
Yep, that's right. Getting some shut-eye (8-hours a night to be precise) can be incredibly beneficial for your skin. Keep scrolling to find out more about sleep and skin health and how catching some zeds can help you maintain a head-to-toe, feel-great glow. Sweet dreams sleeping beauty...
Sleep And Skin Problems
Sleep and your skin are more connected than you may think. Think about it, when you look in the mirror after a bad night's sleep, chances are your skin won't be looking it's best. In fact, studies reveal that just one night of poor sleep can leave you with swollen/puffy eyes, dark circles (at least your concealer will be getting it's moneys worth), paler skin, more noticeable fine lines and wrinkles and even droopy corners of the mouth!
Also, studies have found that just two days of poor sleep can affect your perceived health, sleepiness, trustworthiness and attractiveness. Who knew?!
Sleep And Skin Repair
Sleep is precious (tell me about it). It's the time when your body, mind and soul can peacefully relax, restore and rejuvenate itself. After a day of fighting off skin-damaging pollutants such as UV rays, city air, sweat, grease and grime, your skin is crying out for some R&R. So, what can a good night's sleep do for your skin?
You'll Produce More Collagen...
Sleep is just as good for your skin as it is your wellbeing. Whilst you're sleeping, your body will begin to produce growth hormones that encourage your skin to produce collagen so that is maintains it's tightness and remains plump, pillowy and bouncy. If you suffer from acne, sleep could help you out here too as it can help to repair acne and scarring across your whole body.
Scientists have also found a link between lack of sleep and skin ageing. Sleeping for only 5 hours per night can cause twice as many fine lines as sleeping 7 hours hours! An excuse to hit the snooze button, we think!
Your Skin Will Be More Radiant...
Whilst you're asleep and dreaming of that first post-lockdown holiday (aren't we all?) your body increases the amount of blood flow to your skin. The result? A radiant, healthy and brighter looking complexion upon awakening.
If you're sleep deprived, there will be a decrease in blood flow and you may notice that your skin is dull, lifeless and your rosy cheeks looking a little less perky!
Your Skincare Works Better...
Ever wondered why dermatologists recommend that you apply anti-ageing skincare at night time? Well, during your skin's nightly renewal process is when you'll see the most benefits from your anti-ageing go-to's.
Before hitting the pillow (first thing's first, remove your makeup) and then apply skin-renewing ingredients such as retinol and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) including Glycolic and Mandelic Acid as these will absorb into your skin and get hard at work overnight, leaving you with a brighter, fresher and more glowing complexion in the morning.
Our Sleeping Smoothie Overnight Serum
Your Eyes Will Appear Brighter...
Dark circles, puffy eyes and under-eye bags are one of the first things you'll notice after a bad night's sleep (aside from the fact that you're exhausted). But, why does this happen?
According to research, lack of zzz's can cause the blood vessels under the skin beneath your eyes to dilate; causing a dark bluey/green or grey tint. If you find that you're eyes are more puffy in the morning, this could be down to the fact that fluids can leak into the skin and cause your eyelids to swell and appear puffy.
Additionally, lack of sleep can trigger your cortisol levels (stress hormones) to sky rocket; putting your skin at risk of inflammation which can cause it to become puffy, lifeless and gloomy.
You're Giving It A Well-Deserved Break...
Whilst going about your day, you're exposing your skin to pollution, UV rays from the sun and blue light from technology. However, your bedroom should be a clean environment that is free from all of these skin aggressors and stimulants. There's no fog-ridden city air, no smoking, no temperature changes and you (hopefully) aren't wearing any makeup. So, your skin has a chance to breathe and repair itself so that it is ready to glow the next day.
Your Overnight Bodycare Routine
Enhance your sleep routine with our plant-based, vegan* bodycare that works hard overnight to give you a boost of body confidence and a glow so bright JLo would be envious.
*Excluding mio cleansing hand gel.
Begin by using Heavenly Body Purifying Scrub on dry skin before stepping in the bath or shower. Infused with Sea Salt Crystals, Almond and Coconut Oils, this moisture-rich exfoliator gently buffs the skin to reveal a radiant, nourished glow. After rinsing, pat skin dry and apply Sleeping Smoothie Overnight Serum. Working like a dream (while you dream) this AHA infused body lotion gets to work as you snooze and is loaded with brightening and moisturising plant-actives including Mandelic Acid and Raspberry Extract to resurface your skin cells, leaving you with ultra-hydrated and noticeably glowier skin in the morning.
Now that you’re clued-up on the connection between sleep and skin health, read our interview with Sleep Expert Christabel Majendie featuring her top tips on how to sleep well throughout the night. Explore more.
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