Sleepmaxxing is a trend which is taking the internet by storm, views on TikTok are in the millions with participants aiming to improve their sleep quality and in turn, their health. Sleepmaxxing goes beyond just getting enough sleep, it's about improving the quality of your sleep. We already know that getting getting enough shut eye is beneficial for your skin health, but what about improving the quality instead of the quantity? Below we explore what sleepmaxxing actually is, and how it can improve the quality of your skin.
What is Sleepmaxxing?
Put simply, sleep + maxxing. The term 'maxxing' originates from looksmaxxing, a slang term which refers to improving your appearance. The suffix -maxxing is usually added to any term with which you seek to gain improvement and it is commonly being used among young adolescents and the internet culture as a whole.
Sleepmaxxing is therefore a way of improving your sleep and your overall health.
Notable Benefits for the Skin:
Reduction in inflammation: Good sleep quality is critical to regulate cortisol levels in the body, also known the as stress hormone. Raised cortisol levels are known to increase inflammation, which can lead to redness, sensitivity and disrupted barrier function.
Improved hydration: By keeping your skin barrier working optimally, you're locking in hydration and reducing the probability of dry, dull skin.
Reduced dark circles and puffiness: Optimal sleep quality reduces inflammation and boosts circulation, this can help with the appearance of dark circles. We also have an article on other methods to reduce dark circles.
Prevents premature aging: Whilst we're snoozing our body is working hard to rejuvenate skin cells and collagen. Missing out on sleep is therefore associated with premature aging - fine lines and wrinkles.
Sleepmaxxing for Optimal Skin Health
You can improve your sleep quality through various lifestyle changes. Sleep is one of the most important factors in reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and preventing premature aging. How to use concepts of sleepmaxxing to improve your skin health:
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Avoid caffeine near bedtimes: Caffeine is often the biggest culprit for disturbed sleep, especially if consumed in the evening. Many of us use caffeine in our day to day lives to improve mental focus and for a pleasant boost in energy, but excess consumption significantly impacts sleep quality and skin health as a result.
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Stick to a schedule: Your body follows a natural circadian rhythm which dictates when you feel tired and sleepy. By following regular bedtimes, you're staying in line with your internal clock which can improve your sleep quality and duration.
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Exercise: Physical activity is crucial for sleep quality, we've written an article highlighting why regular exercise is optimal for your skin health. Reduced risk of cancer and inflammation are just a couple of the most notable benefits, but it also boosts circulation which can support removal of waste and toxins leading to a more vibrant complexion.
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Limit screen use near bedtimes: Blue light has been known to impact the circadian rhythm, this can lead to a disturbance in your sleep schedule and affect melatonin production, the hormone responsible for feeling sleepy.
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Bedroom optimisation: A cool, dark environment is beneficial to sleep quality and can help you fall asleep faster. Try blackout blinds if you find light is seeping through at night, and turn the heating off a little sooner than you usually would.
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Use supplements: Melatonin and magnesium are two of the most commonly used supplements to aid with falling asleep faster and boosting sleep quality. Magnesium helps with stress reduction and relaxation, and melatonin is a hormone which is responsible for sleepiness. Note that long term melatonin use can impact sleep quality for the worse. Other supplements include ashwagandha and valerian root.
Summary
Sleepmaxxing is just another term popularised by social media, the meaning of which is to improve sleep quality. Reducing alcohol intake, screen time and stress are just a handful of ways to boost sleep quality, which is directly associated with better skin health. Not only will getting enough sleep improve your skin health, it will also improve your overall health, mood and energy levels.