4 Tips to Wake Up with Better Skin by Morning
If you think that beauty rest is just for fairy tales, think again. Sleeping actually does give your body a chance to rejuvenate and recuperate so that you can wake up feeling refreshed in both mind and body. But there is a bit of a science behind getting the best beauty rest possible, so following these 4 tips for getting glowing, beautiful skin overnight can be a real game-changer.
1. Use a Prescription Retinoid Cream
Retinol, one of the natural forms of vitamin A, has long been known and used for nighttime benefits. In fact, ancient Egyptians even used it to treat endemic night blindness some 3000 years ago. Now, retinoids are very commonly used as anti-aging treatments for the skin, as they have been shown to prevent the harmful oxidation of free radicals in the skin. They also promote collagen production, which is primarily responsible for the youthful fullness and smoothness of the skin. (Clinical Interventions in Aging)
If sun damage, age spots, lines, and wrinkles are a concern for you, consider talking with your dermatologist about prescription retinoid creams. These are typically applied before you go to bed, giving your skin an extra boost while you sleep.
2. Use SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
Another great night time skincare cream that can work anti-aging wonders is the new SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 formula. The 2:4:2 ratio refers to its innovative combination of 2 percent ceramides, 4 percent cholesterol, and 2 percent fatty acids. These three ingredients are all types of lipids, which are natural compounds already found in the skin. As lipid production declines with age, lines, wrinkles and volume loss in the face can result, which is why applying the right blend of topical lipids to your skin can have such a dramatic effect. (Dermato Endocrinology)
This particular formula has been shown to significantly improve skin smoothness, laxity, evenness, radiance, and pore appearance, based on a dermatologist controlled eight-week clinical study. At Acqua Blu Medical Spa in Pittsburgh and Wexford, we offer a variety of SkinCeuticals products, including the new Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2.
3. Sleep in a Cool, Dark Room
Much research has proven that sleeping in a cool, dark room can offer a wide array of health benefits, including a boost in metabolism, a sounder, more restful sleep, and an increase in your body’s circulation. When your circulation is increased, blood can flow more easily throughout the body, helping your organs (the skin included) fight off harmful bacteria, leaving you feeling and looking more energized and rested when you wake up. That said, however, there’s also evidence that shows that sleeping in very cold temperatures may cause your blood vessels to contract, which isn’t ideal for optimal sleep or skincare. It seems to be that around 65 degrees may be the perfect sleeping temperature for most people. (Time Magazine)
4. Sleep on Multiple Pillows
To reduce puffy eyelids, sleep with your head slightly elevated on more than one pillow. This reduces fluid accumulation in the face while you sleep and minimizes puffy eyelids and a tired appearance upon waking. Eating foods rich in vitamin A, C, and E can also help to eliminate this undereye puffiness. Topical application of a retinol cream (more vitamin A) can be a beneficial addition to your nighttime routine. (CNN)
The Bottom Line
Sometimes, achieving younger-looking, healthy skin can be as simple as getting a good night’s rest. By switching up your bedtime routine ever so slightly to include things like retinoids, lipids, and the right sleeping conditions, you really can begin to notice an improvement in the overall appearance of your skin.
If the condition of your skin is a concern, you may also want to consider scheduling a consultation with our Pittsburgh board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ana Busquets, Dr. Susannah McClain, or Christopher Foti, MPAS, PA-C. Dr. Busquets and her team of experienced professionals are very passionate about skincare education and would be more than happy to discuss your skin concerns in detail, as well as design a custom-tailored treatment plan. To schedule an appointment, please contact Premier Plastic Surgery and Dermatology at (724) 933-1800.
