Throw Out Your Serums: This Is the Real Key to Anti-ageing

Simple and free, this one crucial remedy is backed by dermatologists.

Finding the right skincare routine can be overwhelming. Among the many 11-step methods and countless lavish serums with extensive ingredients to pick from, getting it “right” can be a complicated and expensive venture. There is, however, one key ingredient more valuable than any high-priced cream in a pretty bottle. And guess what? It’s free.

From productivity, focus, and mood, to overall physical performance, sleep supports our overall health and wellbeing. With all of the important roles sleep plays in our lives, there is one key element where it plays a vital part – looking after our biggest organ: our skin. Sleep is perhaps the most crucial factor in keeping it healthy, thriving, and youthful in appearance.

We spoke with internationally acclaimed dermatologist and founder of Cutis Dermatology Dr Davin Lim to find out just how advantageous sleep is for overall skin health, and how much of it we should be getting to benefit from its effects

How is sleep good for your skin?

Sleep has a myriad of benefits for your skin. During sleep your skin is able to repair and regenerate cells throughout your entire body – including your skin cells. “Throughout the night, the body undergoes various restorative processes, and adequate sleep enables these mechanisms to function effectively,” said Dr Lim.

“One of the key benefits of sleep for skin health is its ability to reduce inflammation and stress levels, both of which are known contributors to skin issues such as acne, eczema, and premature ageing.” Making sleep one of the most effective (and cheapest) forms of skincare you can use.

How much sleep do you need to benefit your skin?

As nice as it would be to add in a little power nap here and there and call that enough for upping your dose of skincare benefits, Dr Lim recommends anywhere between six to eight hours for your skin to start reaping the benefits. “This duration allows the body sufficient time to carry out essential repair and renewal processes, resulting in a rejuvenated complexion and improved skin vitality.”

It’s also important to note the number of recommended sleep hours differs from person to person, “individual needs may vary depending on factors such as age, lifestyle, and overall health,” he added.

How to use sleep as skincare

As for making the most of your precious sleeping hours for your skin, here are two of Dr Lim’s top tips:

1. Proper sleep hygiene

Getting a solid 8 hours of sleep every night is never a bad thing, but making sure you’re in the right environment for that period of time will make all the difference.

“Creating an optimal sleep environment can further enhance the skin benefits of sleep. Maintaining a slightly cooler room temperature, ideally between 16.5 to 18.5 degrees Celsius (60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit), can promote better sleep quality by facilitating the body's natural temperature regulation mechanisms,” said Dr Lim.

2. Establish an evening routine

Like most things in life, consistency is key. So making sure you’re properly winding down before bed each evening at around the same time, will help your body with its healing processes. “Establishing a consistent sleep schedule helps regulate circadian rhythms, which in turn supports overall skin health.”

For more from Dr Lim, follow him @drdavinlim and @cutis_dermatology