More than an expression, beauty sleep can refer to the science of sleeping in a way to enhance physical beauty features. According to Sleepdex, a nonprofit organization devoted to raising awareness of sleep problems, it is during stages of sleep that cells and tissues are repaired and rebuilt, allowing the body to rejuvenate.
Moisturize While You Sleep
Take advantage of uninterrupted down time to moisturize your skin, especially the areas that experience the most wear and tear during the day---your hands and your feet. Slather your hands and feet with a rich moisturizer or olive oil, then cover with gloves and socks. The covering not only protects your clothing and sheets from oil residue, it helps keep the moisturizer on your hands and feet to be absorbed. Moisturizing your feet is one of the best ways to treat and prevent cracked heels, according to the Foot Health Network at Foot.com, which is a site run by podiatrists dedicated to public education and awareness of foot conditions.
Change Your Position
Beauty sleep can do you more harm than good if you sleep in the same position every night. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, repeating the same position can lead to wrinkles called sleep lines. Over time, these lines grow deeper into the skin and do not disappear after being up for a while. Sleeping on your side with your face in the pillow may cause noticeable lines on your cheek and chin. The best position for avoiding sleep lines and wrinkles is on your back. In this position, gravity may help smooth your face out for you.
Use A Satin Pillowcase
A satin pillowcase has smooth fibers that serve a couple of purposes for beauty sleep. Satin pillowcases don't gather and wrinkle like cotton or polyester pillowcases, so they aren't as likely to leave crease imprints in your skin. Satin's smooth fibers also don't tug and pull on your hair. When you toss and turn at night, and hair gets caught on pillowcase fibers, it can pull and stretch even if you don't feel it, which can cause breakage. The American Cancer Society recommends satin pillowcases for patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments as the satin fabric can prevent the hair from falling out in large clumps.
Watch What You Drink
If you drink caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea or soft drinks, stop drinking them by early afternoon. According to an article by dermatologist Dr. Nicholas Perricone, published Jan. 28, 2010 on "The Huffington Post" website, drinks that contain caffeine, or sugary drinks such as alcohol, will interrupt your sleep pattern and your quality of sleep. Sugary drinks can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which will inhibit the production of anti-aging growth hormone that is produced during the sleep cycle. End caffeine, alcohol and sugary drink intake by early afternoon.
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