How to sleep for better skin: Expert-approved night-time habits are the 'real anti-ageing secret' - 'better than Botox'

An expert shares the best skin care routine

GB NEWS
Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 30/05/2025

- 10:05

Boosting your bedtime routine for better sleep could be the key to looking younger

Sleep is an essential function that allows the body to recharge, stay healthy, and stave off diseases, so the importance of a good night's rest is undisputed.

But could a good kip help you look better, too? According to a sleep expert, savvy shut-eye can "transform" your skin - just make sure you're getting the right amount.


Sleep experts are declaring that proper sleep habits are the "real anti-ageing secret - forget Botox", as celebrity-inspired bedtime routines rack up millions of views on TikTok.

The rise of "sleepy girl" aesthetics has also transformed beauty sleep from basic hygiene into the "ultimate guide everyone wants to follow".

In conversation with GB News, Martin Seeley, a sleep expert at MattressNextDay, weighed in on the most popular sleep-skin strategies.

Sought-after hacks range from magnesium supplements to LED face masks, silk pillowcases, and technology-free nights.

Supplement

Investing in magnesium supplements could boost your bedtime routine for better sleep

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"Magnesium is a crucial ingredient for regulating melatonin (the sleep hormone)", Martin stated.

"It also calms the nervous system and helps reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), making it easier and quicker for you to fall asleep."

As for LED face masks, these utilise red and near-infrared wavelengths to "improve skin repair" during your night's rest.

Silk pillowcases reduce friction and pressure, which helps to "preserve skin elasticity", Martin added.

Looking for another reason to invest in one? A gentle silk pillowcase also reduces hair damage.

"Limiting screen and blue light exposure an hour before bed lets the process of melatonin happen, ready for rest," the sleep guru continued.

Encouraging Britons to improve their sleep habits, he emphasised that effective shut-eye does not require expensive products, with many strategies achievable on any budget.

For example, being strict about your phone habits and practising meditation are completely free, not to mention hugely beneficial.

"Limiting screen and blue light exposure an hour before bed lets the process of melatonin happen, ready for rest," the expert explained.

Woman sleeping with silk pillowcase

Silk pillowcases reduce friction and pressure, which helps to 'preserve skin elasticity'

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"And meditation is an activator for the parasympathetic nervous system (the body's rest and digest mode), also a reducer for cortisol and an overactive mind," he added.

The sleep guru concluded: "It's not about big price tag products, it comes from science, consistency and internal habits that support the body's natural rhythm.

"You can start small by running a warm bath with some magnesium salts and lavender spray for your pillow.

"Then you can start putting your phone in a drawer, and then you will start to see the transformation in your skin, energy and your mood."

Investing in excellent skin care products is another way to improve your complexion. Complement this with diet tweaks for an "enviable glow".