Is the infamous beauty sleep a myth or a fact? Here’s how your sleep quality can impact your skin health.
We are all guilty of spending countless hours slathering on viral skincare products and following trending beauty routines. But what if I tell you that the main reason you haven’t been able to achieve the elusive radiant complexion is your improper sleep schedule. Lack of sleep can wreak havoc on your skin and make it look tired and lacklustre. So, you must supplement your skincare potions with a healthy dose of sleep to get a healthy, dewy complexion.
What are the benefits of beauty sleep?
Quality sleep is not just a luxury or an indulgence; it is a fundamental necessity for our overall well-being, including our skin health. Here’s how beauty sleep can revitalise and rejuvenate your skin:
- Repairs your skin
Your body experiences a state of restorative bliss while you sleep, undergoing several repair processes that contribute to the internal renewal of your skin. When you slumber, your body produces growth hormones which are crucial for cell turnover and tissue repair. This means that while you are resting, your skin is hard at work, shedding old, tired cells and replacing them with fresh, radiant ones.
- Boosts collagen production
Collagen is an essential protein responsible for maintaining your skin’s structural integrity, and when collagen levels drop, wrinkles, sagging skin, and fine lines become more pronounced. So, if you are on a quest for a youthful, radiant complexion, you need to restore collagen levels in your body. Getting enough sleep enables your body to reach its maximum collagen-boosting capacity, giving you the coveted lit-from-within glow.
- Regulates stress levels
Chronic stress negatively impacts your mental health but can also wreak havoc on your skin and cause symptoms, including acne, inflammation, and dullness. A good night’s sleep works as a potent antidote to stress because it helps regulate cortisol levels and promotes a sense of calm and relaxation.
- Improves blood circulation
Did you know that restful sleep can help you wake up with a rosy, radiant complexion? This is because of the improved blood flow during your sleep. While you sleep, your body delivers oxygen and nutrients to essential organs, such as the skin. This improved circulation helps achieve a more radiant look and supports detoxification by removing impurities that may diminish your skin’s natural glow.
How many hours are necessary for beauty sleep?
If you want a radiant complexion, I recommend aiming for seven to eight hours of sleep per night to allow your skin to rejuvenate and regenerate. It is worth noting that the quality of your sleep is just as crucial as the amount of sleep you get. It is best to go to bed earlier and maintain a consistent wake-up time every morning, as REM sleep occurs during the middle of the night. So instead of hitting the snooze button on weekends, prioritise an early bedtime for better rest.
The next time you are tempted to sacrifice your sleep for productivity or to binge-watch your favourite show, keep in mind the significant effects those few hours of sleep can have on the overall health of your skin. To learn more about beauty sleep and its impact on your skin health, schedule a consultation with me. Click here