Experts Share 7 Bedtime Habits for a More Radiant Morning Appearance
Simple evening routines can significantly impact your complexion, hair, and overall well-being.
Maximizing your appearance and well-being doesn't solely depend on morning routines; evening rituals play a crucial role in setting the stage for a refreshed look and feel.
Evening Skincare Routine
Dermatologists emphasize the importance of a thorough facial cleanse before sleep. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Joyce Park highlights that washing the face at night removes sunscreen, makeup, and daily buildup that can lead to inflammation and dullness. "Clean skin going to bed usually means calmer, clearer skin in the morning. Gentle and consistent is far more effective than aggressive cleansing," Park stated. This practice also supports skin barrier repair, resulting in reduced redness, smoother texture, and a more visible glow by morning, according to Dr. Aanand Geria of Geria Dermatology.
A basic nighttime skincare regimen, as recommended by Park, includes cleansing, applying any necessary treatments (such as tretinoin), an optional hydrating serum, and a moisturizer.
Hydration and Digestion
A cup of peppermint tea before bed can help soothe the stomach, hydrate the body, and promote a sense of calm, according to celebrity makeup artist Cat Mignano. While specific research on peppermint tea is limited, it is known to be naturally caffeine-free and may offer digestive benefits and promote relaxation.
Hair Care Before Sleep
For optimal hair health, it is advisable to go to bed with dry hair. Sleeping with wet or damp hair can increase friction and breakage. "Sleeping with dry hair is always better for our hair from a hair health perspective," noted Jonathan Palmer, founder of HairKnowHow. Swapping a cotton pillowcase for a silk one can also lead to less frizz, reduced split ends, and help styled hair last longer. Mignano added, "People really underestimate the power of silk for your hair health."
Silk pillowcases have also been linked to improved skin hydration and a reduction in sleep creases. For those with acne-prone skin or conditions like eczema, regular washing or changing of pillowcases is recommended. Additionally, wearing a silk bonnet or head wrap can minimize friction, protect hairstyles, and prevent moisture loss.
Overnight Treatments and Sleep Position
Applying an overnight face mask can help achieve radiant, well-nourished skin by morning. "The real beauty hack is getting sleep!" Mignano emphasized. "Don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s rest."
Sleeping on one's back is recommended for smoother skin, as it reduces compression that can lead to sleep lines and morning creasing, particularly on the face and décolletage. Back sleeping also aids lymphatic drainage, potentially reducing puffiness and under-eye swelling. However, if back sleeping is not comfortable, prioritizing overall sleep quality is more important.
The Importance of Sleep
Dermatologist Dr. Aanand Geria underscored the critical role of sleep, stating, "Sleep is essential for beauty." Obtaining seven to nine hours of sleep nightly allows for peak skin repair, collagen production, and growth hormone release. Aligning bedtime with circadian rhythms can boost hydration, reduce dark under-eye circles, and enhance facial fullness.
Conversely, sleep deprivation is associated with negative effects on facial appearance, including heavy or red eyes, dark circles, a pale complexion, and drooping mouth corners, as indicated by a 2013 study in the journal Sleep. Chronic insufficient sleep can lead to dullness and puffiness. Even small adjustments, such as going to bed 30 to 60 minutes earlier, can yield visible benefits.