By Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini
While you were sleeping
As the sun sets, your skin calls for an extra layer of protection, so we’ve collected an arsenal of products that will slave away while you snooze. Here are our fave sleep saviours…
1/ The SilkLady Pillowcase (R235, travel size)
Ever wondered why Sleeping Beauty woke up flawless? We’re putting our money on the fact that she used a silk pillowcase. Snoozing on silks slows down visible signs of ageing and the fabric sucks less moisture from your skin than cotton or polyester cases do. Try these 100-percent organic silk pillowcases to look like a princess from sunrise to sunset.
READ MORE: FYI — You’re Using WAY Too Much Of These 7 Skin And Hair Products
2/ Skinderm Brightening+ Elixir (R580)
To even out your skin tone, revitalise your skin’s surface and continue looking like a PYT, you need doses of vitamin C and retinol. This serum combines the power of this magic vitamin as well as mulberry extract to get you looking fresh for the start of your day. Tip: use an SPF during the day because, as with any retinol product, the elixir will make skin more sensitive to the sun.
3/ Dermalogica Daily Resurfacer (R1 020)
If you’re a fan of treatments you can sleep in, try this leave-on exfoliator. The packets of presoaked sponges are designed to fit on your index finger. All you have to do is apply it to your skin using circular motions and by morning your skin will be brighter.
READ MORE: When You Have The Best Skin Days Each Month, According To Your Cycle
4/ Lipidol Overnight Face Oil (R80)
This well-priced oil is rich and luxurious. It contains ylang-ylang and black- pepper essential oils and has a refreshing scent. If your skin feels dry, this oil will give it the extra boost it needs.
5/ Vichy ProEven Night (R450)
Essentially a facial in a tube, it can be used two ways: first, as a nightly treatment applied in a thin layer to your cleansed face. The second way is to use it once or twice a week as a mask. Both methods will help reduce dark spots in four weeks.
READ MORE: 6 Things That’ll Happen To Your Skin If You Don’t Moisturise
6/ SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 (R1 188)
There is no magic pill for perfect skin… But retinol comes pretty close. This highly concentrated night cream can help diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and acne.
7/ Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant Nighttime Miracle Moisturizer (R365)
Inspired by the award-winning formula of the Original Eight Hour Cream, this new, advanced, lightweight overnight moisturiser hydrates the skin by sealing in moisture, as calming lavender helps to relax and soothe the senses before bedtime to ensure a peaceful sleep.
READ MORE: Which Face Oil Is Right For Your Skin Type?
8/ Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil (R650)
Kiehl’s signature ingredient, squalane, doesn’t disappoint – it helps to restore skin’s natural moisture balance, keeping it soft and supple. This lightweight oil cleanser removes make-up and impurities, leaving skin balanced, soothed and prepared for an optimal night’s rest.
9/ Nuxe Nuxellence Detox (R675)
For some serious restorative work while you snooze, try this nightly detox that promotes cell renewal. Its secret power lies in repairing your skin’s mitochondrial DNA – the DNA that’s responsible for the energy supply in cells. It’s perfect for rehydrating and faking a good night’s sleep the morning after.
READ MORE: These Are The Exact Hours Your Skin Looks Its Best — And Worst — Every Day
10/ Environ Hydrating Oil Capsules (R660)
Fight fatigue face with these capsules — they provide a concentrated burst of hydration, antioxidants and retinolin an easily absorbed, oil- based formula. A real treat for dry and fragile skin.
11/ Dior Prestige Le Nectar De Nuit (R6 660)
It’s the skincare equivalent of layering on a chilly day. This night serum improves the condition of your skin, layer by layer. It has a concentration of Rose de Granville extract — pressed from the 800 roses grown in the Dior garden — and, over an eight-hour period, it helps to regenerate skin cells and erase signs of ageing. It’s definitely on our wish list!
Looking for more? Here are seven easy hacks for your best nights sleep ever.