With the clocks going back on October 27, the UK enjoyed a crucial extra hour of sleep, but the change in routine can affect overall sleep quality. Here’s how a lack of sleep can affect your clients' skin health.
Have your clients asked how lack of sleep impacts their skin? Here's how you can guide them toward better bedtime routines to improve both their sleep hygiene and skin health.
With sleep wellness trends on the rise and spas offering sleep retreats across the UK, it's crucial for beauty professionals to understand the role sleep plays in skin regeneration.
How the clock change affects skin
Change in routine may cause many people struggle with sleep disruptions that can affect their skin health.
Rebecca Elsdon, advanced skin specialist and owner of the re/skin clinic, explains, “Sleep disruption from changes in routine, like the clocks going back, can lead to stress on the body, which directly affects the skin by increasing cortisol levels.”
This hormonal imbalance breaks down collagen, leading to fine lines, dehydration and breakouts.
It can also reduce blood flow to the skin, resulting in a dull and uneven complexion. Elsdon emphasises the importance of focusing on hydration and products that support skin repair during this transition.
The impact of poor sleep on skin health
1. Dark circles
“Dark circles around the eyes are the most common tell-tale sign of a poor night’s sleep,” says Dr Natalie Geary, medical director of Light Touch Clinic in Weybridge, Surrey.
Increased cortisol production, often called the stress hormone, is common when the body is fatigued and deprived of sleep.
“The dark circles under your eyes become more pronounced, and bags will accumulate in this area,” adds celebrity facialist Su-Man Hsu. “Your skin will look dull and won’t glow.”
2. Cortisol causing swelling
Cortisol also leads to swelling in blood vessels, including those under the eyes.
“Sleep induces collagen production, so a lack of sleep over time often results in dark circles, fine lines, and a pallid complexion,” explains Dr Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist known as ‘The Sleep Doctor’.
“Growth hormone peaks during deep sleep, which plays a key role in initiating cellular repair.”
3. Low immune system
Sleep deprivation can negatively impact the immune system, which is vital to skin health. Dr Deepa Panchalingam notes that a weakened immune system can lead to an increase in inflammation, which can worsen conditions such as acne, eczema and rosacea.
“A good night’s sleep is crucial to keep the immune system functioning at its best. Inflammation caused by lack of sleep can also affect other organs,” she explains.
4. Reduced blood circulation
“When the quality of sleep drops, blood circulation becomes less efficient, affecting oxygen flow and resulting in a dull, tired appearance,” says Jon-Paul Hoy, clinic owner and 3D Aesthetics trainer.
Charlene Stoker, head of education at Image Skincare, adds, “During sleep, increased blood flow delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the skin. Without it, skin becomes dehydrated, and fine lines become more apparent.”
5. Skin puffiness
"Without sufficient sleep, the skin's natural repair process slows down, and toxins and fluids aren’t properly drained, leading to puffiness, particularly around the eyes," says Kirsti Shuba, co-founder of skincare brand Katherine Daniels.
"Collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production is also reduced, limiting the skin's ability to renew itself."
The importance of good sleep habits for healthy skin
Establishing regular sleep habits is key to maintaining clear, glowing skin. Massage expert Beata Aleksandrowicz says, “Sleep deprivation can reduce collagen production, leading to poor skin elasticity. It’s important to educate clients on the value of sleep – aim for eight hours a night.”
Aleksandrowicz suggests calming evening routines, such as gentle walks, lavender-infused baths, and mindful breathing exercises to promote better sleep.
She also recommends avoiding blue light from devices, as it interferes with melatonin production, which is essential for deep sleep.
Panchalingam adds that investing in a silk pillowcase can help reduce friction and retain moisture in the skin. “Sleeping on your back can also minimise the development of sleep lines.”
The time when clients head to bed is also important and it is best to try to go to sleep around the same time every day.
Hoy explains, “We generally say that we need eight hours of sleep; however, it's worth considering what time we’re going to sleep because our skin starts the repair process from around 9pm – meaning an early night is equally as important as the length of time we sleep.”
Aromatherapy for good sleep
Aromatherapy can help clients improve sleep. "If clients are looking to really relax and get the best night’s sleep possible, vetivert, camomile and sandalwood should be the go-to blend," advises Christina Salcedas, global director of education at Aromatherapy Associates.
"While lavender is most recognised as being great for promoting relaxation, I would argue that vetivert and wild camomile have the strongest sedative properties.
"If clients want to simply unwind and chill out after a busy day, a blend of ylang ylang, petitgrain and lavender is great."
Matt Taylor, brand and education manager at Eve Taylor London, adds, “Research shows that the chemical constituents within lavender can inhibit several neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain, resulting in the lowering of blood pressure, tension, and the slowing down of busy brain waves.
“Lavender can be incorporated into your daily regime and impart deeply relaxing effects to the senses, helping you drift away into comfortable stillness.”
Best skincare ingredients to counteract poor sleep
Dr Geary advises using hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which can help plump and brighten tired skin. “Hyaluronic acid holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, so it’s ideal for restoring hydration.”
Hoy recommends vitamin C and niacinamide for their antioxidant and collagen-boosting properties. “Vitamin C helps with cell repair, while niacinamide locks in moisture and strengthens the skin barrier.”
“The final hero ingredient is a retinoid,” adds Stoker. “It will help to regulate the skin, encouraging a natural glow by hydrating, brightening, strengthening collagen and increase healing.”
Top sleep tips for glowing skin
Educating clients about the connection between sleep and skin health is essential. Dr Geary says, “It’s important to help clients understand that inconsistent sleep patterns can impact the skin over time.”
Taylor suggests avoiding stimulating beverages like caffeine late in the day and opting for calming teas such as chamomile. He also recommends limiting screen time before bed to reduce stress hormones.
If clients haven’t slept well, some self-care in the morning can help.
“My advice is to make sure when this happens, you do a morning cleanse and deep massage,” shares Hsu.
“This will activate the muscles and improve blood circulation as well as increase the metabolic function of the skin. Your skin will feel more of a glow and help get rid of this dull look."
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