“But I’ve still got my makeup on at that hour!” bemoaned a fellow editor. “No one’s in bed by then!” said another. We were in the middle of a talk on sleep, and the speaker had indicated that the optimum time for cell regeneration was between 11 PM to 1 AM; to achieve deep sleep at those hours, one had to be in bed by 9 PM.
Many of us don’t even recall being asleep that early unless we were sick. Yet, the science is there: getting enough sleep is necessary for life—a healthy, productive one. Despite this, 45% of the world of the world population is affected by a lack of good quality sleep, according to literature from skincare brand Dermalogica. While humans have long been burning the midnight oil, these days it seems like more people are getting even less sleep, thanks to technology that is connecting us and keeping us plugged in, demanding more of our time while promising to save us more of it.
The effects of chronic sleep deprivation are numerous and alarming. From an increased risk of developing diseases such as hypertension and diabetes to anxiety, memory loss and even bad skin. Anyone who’s spent a night staying up knows that look: drawn, dark under eyes, pallid skin and fine lines. According to Dermalogica, “just a few nights of missed sleep can lead to dull skin and fine lines and chronic sleep deprivation leads to dark circles and early aging.” Not only are you tired, but you also look it. Their solution to this is a holistic approach to getting enough sleep. Everything from eating better, getting enough exercise, and preparing a nighttime routine that will condition the body to sleep on the regular.
Turn It Off. As tempting as it is to sleep to the soothing conversations in Rupaul’s Drag Race, it’s much better for one’s sleep to the sound of silence or white noise.
Heat Things Up. Take a warm shower or bath. Slipping into a crisp, clean sheets are also a boon.
Ritual Service. Yes, having a skincare regimen can help in getting better sleep. Like prepping one’s self for the morning by putting on makeup and clothes, getting “un-ready” (removing makeup, showering, putting on skincare) helps set the mood for rest. Adding a step such as Dermalogica’s Sound Sleep Cocoon (P4250) can aid in getting that coveted 8 hours of sleep and looking refreshed in the morning. This gently hydrating finishing treatment is formulated with motion-activated essential oils such as skin-rejuvenating Persian Silk Tree and Wu-Zhu fruits, and calming French lavender, patchouli, and sandalwood. Warm up one to two pumps of this lightweight gel cream with your palms, breathe the aroma in and out for 15 seconds, and then apply in a light, patting motion on the face and neck.
Getting into the habit of sleeping well won’t be immediately, but setting this mindset will help us get there. The end result, which is a better quality life and rejuvenated, brighter and younger-looking skin the morning, will be much sweeter.
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