Did you know that one of the most important things you can do for your beauty routine is sleep? That's right! A good night's sleep can do wonders for your hair and skin.
First things first: why is sleep so important for our beauty routine?
It’s pretty simple - when we sleep, our body goes into repair mode. This is when cells are hard at work, repairing and rejuvenating themselves. This is especially important because both our hair and skin are constantly exposed to environmental stressors (like pollution, UV rays, and free radicals) and other internal factors such as hormone imbalance, diet and underlying medical conditions. If you are trying to look toned by building muscles for summer, the magic also happens when you sleep - of course, after the heavy lifting in the gym!
Sleep is also important for the proper functioning of the immune system, which plays a critical role in maintaining healthy hair & skin. Plus, when we're well-rested, our body produces less of the stress hormone cortisol, which can contribute to hair loss and thinning or skin barrier weakening and inflammation!
Sleep also plays a crucial role in hair health, because that’s when our hair follicles get a chance to rest and recover. Adequate sleep helps to improve your blood circulation, and this brings essential nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth. This can also help prevent hair breakage, split ends, and even hair loss.
Asides from all of these points, lack of sleep can lead to dehydration, which can cause your hair to dry out quickly and become brittle and more prone to breakage. Getting adequate sleep helps to keep the body hydrated, thereby keeping your skin and hair healthy and properly moisturised.
Without adequate sleep, your skin doesn't have enough time to repair itself, which can lead to dullness, fine lines, and even breakouts.
Here are a few tips to ensure you get a good night’s sleep:
1. Invest in high-quality bedding:
The right bedding can make all the difference when it comes to a good night's sleep. Look for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or silk, and make sure your pillowcase is gentle on your hair and skin.
I would personally recommend using silk pillowcases because they are known to help maintain moisture levels in your hair, stopping it from becoming static. They are also helpful for those with sensitive skin as silk is naturally hypoallergenic. If you have one of ours, you know silk is the way to go!
2. Wind down before bed:
Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down and prepare for sleep. This could include things like reading a book, taking a bath, or practicing some gentle yoga stretches.
3. Get enough sleep:
The average amount of sleep needed varies based on age and individual needs. However, most adults require an average of 8-9 hours of sleep per night to feel rested and alert during the day. Children and teenagers typically require more sleep, with younger children needing up to 12-14 hours of sleep per night and teenagers needing 8-10 hours per night. Sleep deprivation can lead to irritability, mood swings, overeating, and a decreased ability to cope with stress. Not getting enough sleep can also impair your cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and decision-making skills.
So make sure you're giving yourself enough time to rest and recharge as this is essential for optimal physical and mental health.
4. Use hair products that work while you sleep:
Look for products that are designed to work overnight, like a nourishing hot oil hair treatment with our Khalila or Leccino olive oil.
Remember, taking care of your hair and skin is an inside out job too - So go ahead, get a good night's sleep - your beauty routine will thank you for it!