Looking bright-eyed and bushy-tailed isn't just about your morning routine. It begins the night before, with your evening habits. Bedtime rituals can set you up for a glowing complexion, good hair day, and overall well-being. We asked dermatologists and a celebrity makeup artist for their top recommendations.
1. Cleansing Your Face
Don't skip washing your face, even when exhausted. Dr. Joyce Park, a board-certified dermatologist, says, "A good cleanse removes sunscreen, makeup, and daily buildup that can cause inflammation and dullness. Clean skin at night leads to calmer, clearer skin in the morning." Dr. Aanand Geria adds that a gentle cleanse supports skin barrier repair, reducing redness and improving texture. A simple routine of cleanse, treatments (like tretinoin), hydrating serum, and moisturizer is sufficient.
2. Drinking Peppermint Tea
Celebrity makeup artist Cat Mignano drinks hot peppermint tea to soothe her stomach, hydrate, and unwind. While research is limited, peppermint tea may aid digestion, promote relaxation, and is caffeine-free, making it an ideal nighttime ritual.
3. Going to Bed With Dry Hair
Wet or damp hair increases friction and breakage. Dr. Park recommends ensuring hair is fully dry before sleep. Jonathan Palmer, hair health expert, confirms that sleeping with dry hair is better for hair health.
4. Sleeping on a Silk Pillowcase
Silk pillowcases reduce frizz, prevent breakage, and help hairstyles last longer. They also reduce sleep creases and keep skin hydrated. Wash pillowcases weekly to avoid breakouts. Silk bonnets or head wraps are also beneficial for curly hair.
5. Using an Overnight Face Mask
Apply an overnight face mask for radiant skin by morning. Mignano recommends Medicube and COSRX masks, saying, "I wake up with glass skin."
6. Sleeping on Your Back
Back sleeping reduces sleep lines, puffiness, and under-eye swelling by improving lymphatic drainage. However, prioritize sleep quality over position if back sleeping is uncomfortable.
7. Prioritizing a Good Night's Sleep
Seven to nine hours of sleep boosts skin repair, collagen production, and hydration. Sleep deprivation causes dark circles, pale skin, and puffiness. Even going to bed 30-60 minutes earlier can show benefits. Mignano says, "The real beauty hack is getting sleep!"
For silk pillowcases, consider options from Amazon, Brooklinen, Zima Silk, Eucalypto, and Thnxsilk, as recommended by HuffPost Shopping.
