Being in lockdown for quite a few months now has indeed altered everyday routines, with increased levels of stress, fear and worry, due to all the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. And this, unfortunately, has also negatively influenced the quality and quantity of sleep that people receive on a daily basis. Also Read: COVID-19 Lockdown: This Is Why You Need Sound Sleep To Prevent The Deadly Infection
No doubt that sleep is a very important activity, to maintain the uplifted wellbeing of vital organs such as the heart, brain, lungs, liver and kidneys.
But did you know that getting a good 6 – 8 hours of uninterrupted rest at night also confers immense benefits for skin health?
Yes, “beauty sleep”, as it is popularly known, is very real, with marvellous incentives for enriching skin texture and slowing down ageing.
Superb Health Benefits Of Beauty Sleep For Skin Wellness:
The sleep cycle of humans is divided into four distinct stages - 3 steps of NREM (Non-Rapid Eye Movement) - wake, light and deep segments and 1 phase of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) - wherein dreaming occurs.
While the wake and light periods involve gradually becoming drowsy, with lowered blood pressure, nerve signaling action, it is during deep sleep that skin repairs itself, by shedding old cells, synthesizing collagen protein and forming a renewed layer of tissue.
In this portion of snoozing, the concentrations of stress hormone cortisol decrease, soothing anxiety, while melatonin production is elevated, which naturally reverses the age clock, leaving behind refreshed and radiant skin.
Waking up after ample hours of resting at night visibly reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. Moreover, it diminishes wrinkles, fine lines, acne, scars, dark spots, tans and uneven skin tone, for glowing skin and an unblemished look. Also Read: Uneven Skin Tone? Here's How You Can Bid Adieu To Those Dark Spots For A Flawless Complexion!
Read on, to discover some effective methods to get undisturbed sleep at night, so you can heal all your skin-related woes and flaunt gorgeous skin.
5 Simple Ways To Augment Beauty Sleep For Splendid Skin:
Ensure Dark Surroundings
Going to bed in a well-lit room, or near an open window through which bright sun rays can enter, hampers the original rhythm of sleep. Make sure to switch off all lights and close the curtains, for complete darkness through the night as well as the wee hours in the morning.
Avoid Salty Snacks
Midnight cravings are hard to control but replace foods high in salts such as chips and crackers, with fresh fruit or protein-rich snack. Ingesting salted meals right before bedtime triggers inflammation, gives rise to puffy under-eye bags, causes stomach problems and makes it more difficult to fall asleep.
Drink Adequate Water
Thirst is a common sensation that occurs at night as well. Whether eating out or at home, steer clear of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages, as they hinder the intensity of REM sleep. Just sip on a glass of water, that instills hydration and guarantees velvety soft skin.
Cleanse The Face
Needless to say, after a long day of office work or household chores, skin cells tend to undergo wear and tear, in addition to pores filling up with dirt, germs and oily secretions. Use a gentle cleanser and wash the face with cold water at night, to remove grime and prevent skin infections.
Elevate Head Position
Keeping the head at a slightly higher angle than the body, using a cushioned pillow, works wonders in remedying instances of snoring, acidity, or a running nose, which impede continuous sleep. Resting in a comfortable pose on a flat, even surface also promotes blood circulation to skin cells, for a beautiful appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours of sleep do I need for beauty sleep?
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your skin and body ample time to rejuvenate.
Can lack of sleep affect my skin?
Yes, insufficient sleep can lead to dark circles, puffiness, dull skin, and an increase in fine lines and wrinkles.
What happens to my skin while I sleep?
During sleep, your skin produces new collagen, repairs damage, and increases blood flow, resulting in a healthier complexion.
Are there any tips to enhance beauty sleep?
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, keep your bedroom cool and dark, use a silk pillowcase, and follow a good skincare routine before bed.
Does sleeping position affect skin health?
Yes, sleeping on your back can help prevent wrinkles and skin creases caused by pressure on your face from the pillow.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor's Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
