The Power of Sleep for Your Skin

Getting your beauty sleep is no myth. When you get a full’s night sleep, you are promoting good skin health. If you’re sleeping less than six hours a night, it will adversely affect your appearance. Aim for seven to nine hours nightly to maximize your skin’s potential.

When you’re not getting at least seven hours of sleep at night, the stress hormone cortisol increases. When cortisol surges, inflammatory skin conditions can flare up. Skin conditions impacted by cortisol levels include acne, dermatitis and psoriasis. Your skin may feel dry and itchy or you may notice more breakouts when you’re not sleeping enough.

As you sleep, your body produces new collagen. Collagen helps repair damage to the skin and plumps up its appearance. Without the elasticity provided through collagen, fine lines and wrinkles appear prematurely.

During the night while you’re sleeping, hydration in the body is restored. When your skin is dry, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles are more pronounced. Poor hydration also causes bags under the eyes and dark circles.

When you’re sleeping, you’re avoiding exposure to environmental toxins that could wreak havoc on your skin. With very limited exposure to smoke, UV rays, temperature fluctuations and free radicals, your skin is given a chance to rejuvenate.

When you’re tired, you’re more likely to frown more or furrow your brow. Your complexion is likely to be paler and duller as well. Without enough zzz’s, you may have red eyes and splotchy skin.

Using skincare products at night as you rest can do wonders for your skin since your body will be in healing mode. For instance, Sound Sleep Cocoon from Dermalogica is a lightweight gel that revitalizes the skin as you catch up on some sleep. With Taramind Seed Extract, the product creates a cocoon to protect and hydrate the skin. The Sound Sleep Cocoon also includes essential oils such as sandalwood, lavender and patchouli to promote a more restful sleep. Additional ingredients help improve radiance and reduce the signs of fatigue. Apply Sound Sleep Cocoon generously to the face and neck nightly at bedtime.

Healthy daily habits combined with skincare products can make a big impact on the skin. The New York Institute of Beauty instructs students on how to maximize each person’s beauty inside and outside. Contact the New York Institute of Beauty today to learn more about our programs and services.