Do you spend the night tossing and turning and remain wide-eyed? If you do, then chances are you're sleep deprived. Experts estimate one third of us do not get the shut-eye we need to stay on the ball.
Of course, young mums can almost wave goodbye to a good night's sleep but they're not alone. The rise of insomnia is growing and the finger of blame is pointed at looking at TV screens and phones before turning out the light. An hour before midnight is worth three afterwards - so they say. But if you're one of the many sleepy heads that just can't fall asleep, here's how to help your skin and body relax and guarantee a rested glow the following day.
Rules to rest by
● Remove make-up. I live by this rule. If you don’t cleanse off the day’s build up of grime and make-up, oils and sweat will build up which over time may lead to puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.
● Use an anti-ageing night cream. Night creams are not a marketing gimmick. The skin’s ability to absorb active ingredients peaks between midnight and 4am, so it’s worth investing in a night cream that works deep into the skin’s dermal layers. Avoid creams with SPF at night. It’s not necessary to wear sun cream in bed!
● Choose formulas that multi-task such as BRYT night cream (brytskincare.co.uk) or Guerlain Issima Midnight Secret. They contain sleep-enhancing essential oils that de-stress the mind as well as collagen boosters to aid skin repair.
● It’s been an ancient rescue remedy and it still works — a warm bath relaxes your muscles and mind. Try a bath oil for added luxury and softness to your skin or bath salts whose scent lingers for hours. My favourites are Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil and Mauli Himalayan Healing Salts.
● If you can persuade your partner to lightly massage the centre of your forehead and the back of your neck this will also prepare you for sleep.
● Dim the lights and light an aromatherapy candle. They’re less potent than fragrant sticks and the light from the wick will also help send you to sleep — but don’t forget to blow out the candle before you nod off! My go-to choice is Neom’s Scent to Sleep Tranquillity candle.
● For a cheap alternative to expensive lotions and potions, try pouring a handful of Epsom Salts (available at Boots) into a warm bath. The natural salts contain magnesium that in turn creates a feeling of relaxation (and detoxes the body too!)
● Pop a pill. Celeb-favourite natural haunt, Neal’s Yard, understands the effect a good night’s sleep has on your skin. This month sees the launch of its new Beauty Sleep supplements that promises to repair from the inside out — even if you are up all night.