Catching up on our Zzz’s is important. We may not realize it, but everything from our focus and concentration to our weight regulation and the strength of our immune system – they all depend on a good night’s rest. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that takes place during those vital resting hours, including repair and rejuvenation that’s absolutely essential to maintaining that natural glow that we cherish oh-so dearly.

Beauty Rest

Your skin will definitely tell on you if you’ve been cheating yourself out of a couple of hours. Not only can the skin be more susceptible to inflammation and signs of aging, but the skin actually becomes more prone to acne. Introducing Cortisol, our stress hormone. Cortisol can stimulate more oil production in the body, creating an imbalance in the skin and increasing our chances of unwanted breakouts.

The big idea is to minimize high cortisol levels. A proper night’s sleep is the perfect enabler for collagen production, restoration, healing, water retention, and hydration, as well as improved elasticity and texture. Let’s think of it this way. The last step in our nighttime routine should really be eight hours of soothing rest.

From the Inside Out

The next best thing you can do for your skin is a healthy diet. It’s important to mention that less is more with regards to our sugar consumption. One of the not so friendly foods for the skin is sugar. Sugar is actually linked to an increase in cortisol in the body – and we know what cortisol does. A diet your skin will love consists of fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish oils, and less animal-based protein.

We’re not saying to go full-on vegan or vegetarian, but replacing certain animal-based foods with more plant-based fats and proteins can actually help curb excess oil production and inflammation. Well-nourished skin equally depends on what we choose, and don’t choose, to consume.

The Long and Short

Take your vitamins and be sure to not be stingy with catching your Zzz’s! It’s okay to discover what foods work well for you, your diet, and your everyday schedule. There’s no one size fits all remedy, but great self-care is always bound to show up in your energy levels, mood, and your dewy, radiant complexion.