The importance of a night-time routine

Preparing yourself for going to bed can mean the difference between a great night’s rest or waking up exhausted. “Establishing a consistent and soothing night-time routine is essential to ensure a restful sleep and to maintain your health,” notes Clere skincare brand manager Su-Marie Annandale. She shares some tips to help you prepare for a restful night:

1. Create a welcoming sleep environment

Transform your bedroom into a calm, inviting space with the help of paint, curtains or blinds, pictures and a bedside lamp. Cover your bed with the right type of bedding for the season. Spring and summer call for light sheets and thin quilts, while soft blankets, flannel sheets, and cosy duvets are must-haves for colder months.

2. Set a consistent sleep schedule

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your internal clock and improves the quality of your sleep.

3. Wind down with a relaxing bath or shower

Taking a warm – not too hot, as this can strip your skin of its natural oils – bath or shower before bed can help relax your muscles and prepare your body for sleep. The drop in body temperature after you get out of the bath signals to your body that it’s time to sleep.

4. Moisturise your skin

Moisturising should always be a key part of your night-time routine. Apply a nourishing crème or lotion after your bath or shower to lock in moisture. Pay special attention to areas prone to dryness, such as your hands, feet, and elbows. Clere’s Repairing range of crèmes and lotions are enriched with nourishing Tissue Oil and moisturising Glycerine to reduce the appearance of stretch marks*. The range is available in three indulgent fragrances, including Vanilla Honey Cream which is further enriched with Argan Oil.

5. Enjoy a warm beverage

Sipping on a warm beverage, like herbal tea in warmer weather or hot milk when it’s cold, can be a soothing way to end the day. Avoid caffeinated drinks in the evening to prevent disruptions to your sleep.

6. Practice relaxation techniques

Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga into your night-time routine. These practices can help calm your mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.

7. Dim the lights and avoid screens

Exposure to bright lights and screens before bed can interfere with your sleep. Dim the lights in your home as you approach bedtime and avoid using electronic devices at least an hour before you sleep. Consider using blue light filters on your devices if you must use them.

8. Use a humidifier

Running a humidifier in your bedroom can help maintain moisture in the air, preventing your skin and respiratory system from drying out.

9. Comfortable sleepwear

Choose comfortable sleepwear made of breathable fabrics like cotton or flannel.

10. Prepare for the next day

Spend a few minutes before bed preparing for the next day. Lay out your clothes, pack your bag, and make a to-do list. This can help reduce morning stress and make your mornings run more smoothly.

By incorporating these habits into your night-time routine, you can create a peaceful and relaxing environment that promotes restful sleep and overall well-being throughout the year.

*8 out of 10 users saw an improvement in their stretch marks and it helped even their skin tone in 12 weeks.