For some it can be hard to reach the 8-hour sleep mark every night which our skin needs to make it the best it can be. Sleep has proven to lower stress levels, reduce inflammation and help us maintain a healthy mind and body. Only 32% of adults achieve 8 hours or over of sleep per night.
So, what does our skin actually do in 8-hours of sleep…
Skin cells regenerate
In a full day our faces are hit with UV rays, pollution, sweat and grime therefore, by the end of the day our skin is in need of some rest. While we sleep our skin turns into recovery mode and it is an important time of repair and regeneration. The regeneration process is up to three times faster whilst you are asleep than during the day!
Our skin is more receptive to products
If you are wondering why most skincare products such as anti-ageing products are recommended at night, it is because our skin will most benefit from it. Whilst we sleep our skin does a renewal process so this is when your products will be most beneficial. So, apply all your skincare creams at night and your skin will absorb them to do the magic whilst you get your rest.
Your skin is able to de-stress
Sleep is not just a stress reliever for your mind and body but also your skin too. A lack of sleep increases your stress hormone putting your skin in a pro-inflammatory state. This can mean your skin can look gloomy and puffiness around the eyes. By having eight hours of sleep per night you are limiting your stress hormone and prevent these symptoms from appearing. In some cases it has been proven that lack of sleep can cause hair loss due to stress hormones.
Your body will produce more collagen
Collagen is key for keeping the skin plump and smooth. Once you go to sleep your body starts producing growth hormones. These hormones ensure that your skin is producing enough collagen, which helps your skin remain tight and bouncy. It also allows your skin repair acne and scarring across the body. Collagen not only helps your skin, it also helps your nails and hair. If you do not get the correct amount of sleep the blood in your body
Your skin can have an environmental break
Sun exposure, pollution and blue light are just a few of the everyday elements our skin is exposed to however, when the day turns to night these are all eliminated. When you sleep your skin is not getting exposed to UV damage, no smoking, no smog or temperature change. It is a clean environment and your skin is able to breathe plus it is able to have a break.
