Most people would choose to wake up looking their best every morning, but that is not always a reality for a multitude of reasons. While many factors can be at play, nighttime behaviors and habits can significantly impact your appearance, sometimes leaving you looking puffy, red, or dehydrated. These habits can exacerbate existing skin issues and compromise your skin barrier, leading to dry skin, inflammation, irritation, bumpy patches, and more. Below, dermatologists share the common nighttime habits that are not doing your looks any favors.
1. Eating Salty Foods
Dr. Aegean Chan, a dermatologist and founder of More Than Nine Skincare, explains that consuming a heavy meal with a lot of salt can lead to fluid retention throughout the body. Since facial skin is thinner, puffiness from fluid retention shows up here, especially around the eyes. While it is not practical to cut out salty food entirely, limiting high-salt meals before a big event is advisable.
2. Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol consumption dilates blood vessels and leads to fluid retention, resulting in morning puffiness, particularly under the eyes and in the face, says Dr. Shelia Farhang, a dermatologist and founder of Avant Dermatology and Aesthetics. Instead of alcohol, opt for seltzer water to stay hydrated and reduce next-day puffiness.
3. Sleeping in a Dry Room
Sleeping in a dry room, common when heating is on in winter, can compromise skin health. Dr. Farhang notes that dry air increases skin sensitivity and worsens conditions like rosacea or eczema. Using a humidifier can hydrate the skin, improving its appearance and feel upon waking, adds Dr. Chan.
4. Not Getting Enough High-Quality Sleep
Poor sleep quality and quantity affect all body systems. Dr. Chan emphasizes that sleep is a time for the body to reset and recover. Restorative sleep, including REM, can reduce under-eye bags and make you look more awake. Studies show that skin resets at night, with barrier repair occurring during sleep.
5. Skipping Nighttime Moisturizers
Failing to moisturize properly at night can lead to dehydrated-looking skin in the morning. Dr. Chan recommends using thick moisturizers, night masks, or occlusives like Vaseline and Aquaphor. This technique, known as "slugging," acts like a bandage to optimize skin barrier repair, resulting in smoother, bouncier skin.
6. Allergies
Not taking allergy medication can contribute to facial puffiness, especially around the nose and under the eyes, explains Dr. Farhang. Environmental allergies cause swelling due to sinus congestion. Taking antihistamines can help combat this swelling.
7. Mouth Breathing at Night
Breathing through the mouth at night leads to dry mouth and chapped lips, says Dr. Farhang. It is important to consult a doctor to determine the cause, which may be allergies or untreated sleep apnea. Addressing these issues can improve both sleep quality and morning appearance.
While you do not need to overhaul your life for the sake of morning beauty, adopting these healthy habits can benefit your body holistically, not just your looks.
