The Right Way to Get Your Beauty Sleep

Beauty sleep is very real. It's during sleep that skin damage from daily stress and pollution is repaired, dermal layers are rejuvenated, and even facial muscles are relaxed and gravity is shifted so wrinkles become less pronounced. Without enough sleep skin can look sallow and dry with uneven skin tone and more defined wrinkles. Wake up looking your best with these basic tips.

    * Get a head start Make a habit of washing your face and getting the rest of your nighttime beauty routine out of the way well before you're actually ready to go to bed, like a couple of hours ahead of time, so when you're really tired later you won't be tempted to blow it off.
    * Sleep on your back because laying on your side or stomach can literally press wrinkles into your face as you sleep.

    * Consider elevating your head, either on a couple of pillows or by raising the head of the bed by 2-3 inches. This will help prevent fluid from accumulating in the face and encourage lymphatic drainage.
    * Slather on the moisturizer Since there's no makeup to smear or products to block the absorption of key ingredients overnight is the perfect time to apply rich, thick eye and skin moisturizers. You can also moisturize your hair overnight by applying a moisturizing treatment, sleeping with a cap on, and rinsing it out in the AM.
    * Avoid carbs in the evening and wake up with less puffiness and more defined cheekbones. According to one dermatologist foods high on the glycemic index (rice, pasta, potatoes) can leave you waking up with a "soft, doughy appearance."
    * Sleep on a satin pillowcase to reduce frizz and have shinier healthier hair. Satin is smoother than cotton so there's less friction and rubbing on the hair shaft. (It can work for your skin too, but sleeping on your back is better.)