Beauty sleep is far from being just a myth. Sleeping is the time our bodies use to rest, heal and repair, helping us to wake up feeling refreshed, energised and ready for the day ahead, so it’s essential to not only get the recommended eight hours a night, but to make sure the quality of those hours are the best they can possibly be. Here’s 8 top tips how you can get the most out of your snooze time and proudly say ‘I woke up like this’ every morning.
Wash your face
Skin rejuvenates naturally while you sleep so it’s important to remove all traces of dirt, bacteria and makeup before bed. After washing with warm water use a cream or gel cleanser before applying a nourishing serum or moisturiser for refreshed and hydrated skin come morning.
Invest in a mask
Face masks can revive skin and combat signs of aging and fatigue. Look for masks containing beneficial ingredients such as retinol and hyaluronic acid, which brighten, tighten and boost skin elasticity, and Vitamin C and chamomile which both provide anti-inflammatory relief. When it comes to masks you get what you pay for so they are definitely one beauty product worth splashing out on.
Upgrade your bedding
Silk helps your skin retain moisture and keeps it more hydrated than most other fabrics while also helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase prevents friction on your hair resulting in less frizz, breakage and spilt ends. It also has hypoallergenic properties meaning it is naturally resistant to dust mites, fungus and mould.
Stay hydrated
While you don’t want to be downing jugs of water and getting up to use the toilet all night, drinking 1-2 cups before bed and again when you wake up in the morning will keep you hydrated resulting in better skin, brighter eyes and improved digestion. For an even better option try adding a squeeze of lemon juice which will kick-start your metabolism and help the liver remove toxins leaving you feeling fresh and energised.
Try essential oils
If you are feeling anxious, stressed or simply need to unwind, essential oils are a great way to help you find balance. Oils such as jasmine, bergamot, chamomile and ylang ylang are renowned for their de-stressing effects and will help you drift off into a deep sleep. Try adding a few drops to a warm bath or shower before bed, or burn over a candle as you relax with a book or some gentle music.
Set a routine
It can be hard going to bed when there’s Netflix shows to watch and online shopping to be done, but the later you leave it, the harder it is to wake up in the morning. Late nights can wreak havoc on your skin and appetite, not to mention those under eye bags. Get into the habit of going to bed around the same time each night and aim for the recommended 8 hours of sleep, you will certainly look and feel a whole lot better for it.
Treat your whole body
When it comes to skincare most of us are guilty of neglecting the parts that stay covered and only focusing on what can be seen. Make it a nightly routine to scrub, massage and moisturise your body before getting into bed. Not only will this remove the dead skin allowing cells to repair overnight, it will leave your body feeling silky soft which is guaranteed to boost your mood in the morning.
Say om
As well as increasing bone health and improving muscle strength and flexibility, yoga and meditation have been proven to enhance concentration, reduce stress and improve the quality of sleep. Try a few simple stretches before bed or a gentle meditation exercise each night and you should soon notice a difference in both your body and mind as well as your attitude towards daily life.
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