In today’s fast-paced society we often feel that we have to rely on beauty treatments to look
and feel our best. For most, skin peels and Botox are all the rage, and getting a full eight
hours of sleep is a rare commodity.
It’s no wonder, then, that we’ve forgotten just how much a good night’s sleep can do for our
appearance – perhaps even surpassing the effects of some of our most loved beauty
treatments.
So, why is sleep so important?
First, let’s cover the basics. Sleep is crucial for supporting our biological processes as it
repairs cells, supports brain function, and helps to eliminate any toxic waste. Not getting
enough sleep can have serious consequences for both our minds and bodies, and will leave
us more susceptible to life-threatening illnesses including heart disease and obesity.
Complexion
While you’re busy sleeping, your body is getting to work producing collagen, a protein best
known for adding plumpness to our skin – you may have heard of it, as it is often added to
make up products and skin creams. It is the substance that starts to gradually decline as we
age, and the one we have to thank for wrinkle-free faces while we are young. It goes without
saying, then, that if your body doesn’t get enough time to produce collagen at night, it can
inevitably lead to premature fine lines and wrinkles.
One of the more immediately seen (but potentially long-term) effects of not getting enough
good-quality sleep are dark circles under the eyes. The better you sleep, the brighter your
under-eyes will be, and the fresher-faced you will seem – leaving no need for concealer or
night creams.
Weight
The less sleep you get at night the hungrier you are likely to feel, as your body is in need of
extra fuel to sustain it. Even just a couple hours less than usual, or a sleep cycle that is
disrupted, can leave you feeling ravenous for the rest of the day.
Similarly, studies have shown that poor sleep quality can wreak havoc on our metabolic rate
– meaning that, essentially, the better your quality of sleep, the more efficiently your body is
able to burn calories.
Hair
For strong, luscious hair, a good night’s rest is important. Melatonin is a hormone that helps
our hair to grow, and as with collagen, our body uses the time that we are asleep at night to
produce it. In extreme circumstances, sleep deprivation can cause severe hair loss – whether the stress
of insomnia plays a part here is arguable – but either way, it is all the more reason to make
sure you’re getting those eight hours in each night.
What makes a good night’s sleep?
For optimal wellness benefits, you should aim for at least seven hours of deep, uninterrupted
sleep each night – that way, your body has enough time to get to work repairing your skin
and hair, as well as all the other processes that keep you alive.
While it can be a nice treat to indulge in a facial, there’s something to say for just having a
good night’s rest. Sleep makes you look good because your body is feeling good on the
inside – meaning that beauty sleep is one of the best gifts that you can give to yourself.