Yahoo Lifestyle 
How bad sleep can actually make you age faster
Many of us have heard the phrase “I need to get my beauty sleep!”, but it turns out those sleeping beauties might be on to something.
Research suggests that the quality of sleep we get does indeed impact our looks, and the pandemic has also had an impact on this.
Sleep Expert Elina Winnel tells Yahoo Lifestyle sleep is the closest thing we have to a 'youth elixir'.
"It is the time our body heals, regenerates and rejuvenates. If we get sufficient quality sleep, we stay youthful looking. If not, we age exponentially," she explains.
Getting enough quality shut-eye that will rejuvenate our bodies as well as our complexions can be tough.
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Elina, an Emma Sleep ambassador, says we need to prioritise sleep the same way we would our diet or exercise. We also need to focus on the foundations of a healthy night’s sleep, such as a balanced nervous system, relaxation time, and bedding such as a mattress that supports optimal sleep.
The Science of Beauty Sleep
Sleep Expert Dr Carmel Harrington adds that during a deep sleep, the body will secrete a hormone called the Human Growth Hormone (HGH), which plays a key role in healing cells and tissues throughout your body.
“Not getting the required amount of sleep is stressful to the body and can cut the crucial repair time short,” Dr Harrington, an In Essence ambassador, tells Yahoo Lifestyle.
“Instead, our body produces higher cortisol levels during sleeplessness, normally extremely low production during night hours, which results in an increase in the production of sebum. Sebum is a natural oil that lubricates the skin and when too much is produced, it can cause blockages that lead to pimples and/or acne.”
A lack of sleep can also reduce the skin’s barrier to keep moisture locked in, which can lead to dehydration and cause fine lines to look more evident, as well as trigger signs of sleep deprivation including dark under eye circles.
Sleep Hacks
Dr Harrington is an advocate for using an essential oil for sleep is a tried and tested natural way to help you rest and relax. She recommends In Essence's latest 'Sleep No Lavender Essential Oil Blend, which combines a calming blend of ingredients that have been traditionally used in aromatherapy for the relief of symptoms associated with sleeplessness, including mild anxiety, stress, tension and fatigue.
“Going for a walk at lunch time to get at least 20 minutes of light movement is also essential in preparing the body and mind for sleep, as well as other factors including no caffeine after midday, no day time naps (a nap of 20 minutes is okay) and no large meals within 3 hours of bedtime," she adds.
Elina also stresses you should consider your sleep set up, all the way from your mattress and sheets to your pillow.
“Spinal alignment is important. Pain, discomfort or movement can easily wake people during the night, so a supportive mattress can be a simple and quick win to improve sleep," Elina says. "When you are in bed, ensure any thoughts you are having are ones that place a smile on your face.”
So that fantasy you have about sleeping on a bed of fairy floss, or being chased by playful puppies, may actually be good for you. Sweet dreams!
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