Wake Up To Better Skin

Expert Skincare Advice from Avant Garde Harlow

We’ve all heard the phrase ‘beauty sleep’, but did you know, it’s not just an old saying – it’s backed by science. While you’re snoozing, your skin is working overtime, repairing, renewing and rejuvenating itself.

Skimp on sleep, and it’s not just your energy levels that take a hit. Your skin shows it too. The good news? A few smart habits (and a little skincare know-how) can help you wake up glowing every morning. Here’s how…

Is your skin is running on empty?

If you’re not getting enough shut-eye, it shows. Look out for:

Dark circles and puffiness under eyes
Skin that looks dull, dry or just… meh
Fine lines and wrinkles look more pronounced
More breakouts or increased sensitivity
Loss of skin elasticity
Blemishes healing more slowly
What happens while you snooze?

At night, your skin switches into repair mode, working to undo the damage caused by stress, pollution and UV exposure.

While you’re dreaming:

1. Collagen production increases, helping to keep skin firm and smooth, while softening fine lines.

2. Blood flow improves, giving your complexion that fresh morning glow.

3. Skin cell turnover speeds up, replacing damaged cells with fresh, healthy ones.

4. Hydration levels rebalance, reducing dryness and dullness.

5. Cortisol (your stress hormone) drops, reducing inflammation, breakouts and premature ageing.

On the flip side, poor sleep leads to more stress hormones, dehydration and slower skin repair, leaving your complexion looking tired, puffy and less radiant. Over time, a lack of sleep can even weaken your skin’s barrier, making it more sensitive, prone to irritation and speeding up the signs of ageing like uneven pigmentation, wrinkles and sagging.

Your bedtime glow-up routine

Your bedtime routine plays a huge role in how your skin looks and feels in the morning. A few simple steps before bed can work wonders.

Double cleansing – because once is not enough

We’ve all been tempted to crash into bed with makeup still on, but it’s just not worth it. Sleeping in makeup clogs pores, traps dirt and stops your skin from breathing.

We recommend double cleansing to get your skin squeaky clean:

Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and SPF.
Follow up with a gentle face wash using Crystal Clear Soothing Cleansing Gel to remove any leftover residue.

Hydrate hack

Your skin naturally loses moisture overnight, so a hydrating night cream or serum is a must. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides to keep your skin plump and nourished. Not sure what’s best for your skin type? Ask your therapist for a recommendation.

Tired eyes?

The delicate skin around your eyes is often the first to show signs of tiredness. A good eye cream with caffeine or vitamin C can help reduce puffiness and lighten dark circles. 

Silk pillowcases. Worth the hype?

Silk pillowcases are gentler on your skin than cotton, reducing friction and preventing those annoying sleep creases. They also help tame frizz and keep your hair smoother overnight. Win-win!

Try a facial massage before bed

A gentle facial massage after cleansing can boost circulation, reduce puffiness and help you relax before drifting off to sleep. Just a few minutes can make a difference.

The one beauty treatment you can’t afford to skip

“Getting enough sleep is one of the best (and totally free) beauty treatments for your skin”. During those precious hours, your skin repairs, hydrates and regenerates – so don’t skimp on sleep.

Need an extra boost? Book a hydrating facial with us to refresh and revive your skin. We’ll help you achieve that fresh, well-rested glow – no matter how little sleep you’ve been getting.

Book a Facial Appointment at Avant Garde Salon in Harlow

For expert advice and facial treatments at the best skincare salon in Harlow - Book online or call us on 01279 451219