How to sort your bedtime skin routine and be a sleeping beauty

The phrase "getting your beauty sleep" really isn’t a myth. Expensive night creams may make you feel pampered but there's little point if you don't get enough of the one treatment that doesn't cost a penny! l Experts all agree that a lack of sleep speeds up the ageing process. So make sure you get enough. Start following this easy routine and it should help you wind down and start to feel sleepy...

• Carry out regular pre-bedtime tasks, drawing the curtains and cleaning your teeth -in the same order, and try to go to bed at roughly the same time each night. Your body then gets to recognize that sleep is near.
• Remove all traces of make-up and cleanse your face thoroughly, not forgetting the area around your nose and the crease of your chin, where dirt and grease build up.
• Clip your hair back, too dirt from your hair can transfer to your face overnight and lead to spots.
• Take a warm bath, adding some scented bath salts will help you wind down.
• Finally, apply moisturiser to your face and neck, or a night cream if you prefer, to keep your skin hydrated.

Last-minute boosters

• Open your bedroom window- your skin needs fresh air while you sleep.
• Always sleep with a pillow. Raising your head above your body prevents fluid from accumulating under the eyes.
• Sleeping on your back prevents constriction of the blood vessels under the eyes, which leads to dark circles.
• Once in bed, try to clear your mind and relax.

Revive tired skin, If you've had trouble sleeping, or too many late rights, try the following:

• Pat icy water on and around the eye area.
• Drink lots of water.
• Don’t assume that because you look tired there's no point applying make-up. A touch of colour will make you look and feel better.
• Never leave home without a concealer - essential for disguising under-eye bags and dark circles.