We all know the rejuvenating power of a good night’s sleep, but when it comes to skin health, rest is nothing short of transformative. While the body unwinds, the skin, our largest organ, enters an active phase of repair, renewal, and regeneration. Neglecting sleep can show up instantly on the face, while prioritising it can help maintain a radiant, youthful complexion.

“Sleep is one of the most important factors in maintaining healthy, youthful skin,” explains Dr. Milena Denisenko, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist and Founder of Dubai-based Milyne Aesthetic Center. “Going to bed by 10pm helps your body produce melatonin, a powerful hormone that supports cell regeneration, reduces stress, and regulates circadian rhythms.”

Melatonin production, she adds, is essential for slowing down skin ageing, improving hydration, and enhancing elasticity. During deep sleep, circulation improves and collagen production ramps up, helping to reduce inflammation, repair damage, and strengthen the skin barrier. The results? A plumper, smoother, and more luminous complexion by morning. On the flip side, insufficient or poor-quality sleep can wreak havoc on the skin. Lack of rest increases cortisol levels, a stress hormone that triggers inflammation and accelerates the breakdown of collagen. This can lead to premature wrinkles, sagging, dark circles, and dullness. Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can also compromise the skin’s protective barrier, leaving it more sensitive, reactive, and prone to breakouts.

Fortunately, skincare can work in parallel with sleep to optimise these natural repair processes. Nighttime is when the skin is most receptive to active ingredients, which is why a structured evening routine is crucial. Dr. Denisenko recommends beginning with thorough cleansing to remove makeup, pollution, and impurities, followed by a balancing toner. Then, focus on products formulated to enhance overnight recovery.

Retinoids are considered the gold standard of nighttime skincare, stimulating cell turnover and collagen production while reducing fine lines and pigmentation. Exfoliating acids such as glycolic or lactic acid help resurface the skin, refine texture, and unclog pores. Peptides support firmness and repair, while niacinamide calms irritation and strengthens the barrier. To lock in moisture, hyaluronic acid and nourishing oils like argan, rosehip, or squalane replenish hydration and restore lipids.

Since these powerhouse ingredients can increase sun sensitivity, they should be reserved for nighttime use and paired with SPF in the morning. Products like retinol serums, overnight peptide creams, and hyaluronic-rich sleeping masks are designed to synchronise with the skin’s circadian rhythm, maximising benefits as you rest.

Ultimately, glowing skin isn’t just about what you put on your face;  it’s also about how you treat your body. Adequate, quality sleep remains the foundation of any effective skincare regimen, turning bedtime into the most luxurious beauty treatment of all.

Overnight products to try: 

Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

La Mer The Rejuvenating Night Cream

The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

CAUDALIE Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Night Cream

Estée lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Bounce Night Crème

Elemis Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix

Lancôme, Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Face Cream

LaPrairie Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask