My Essentials for a Better Night’s Sleep
Let’s talk about sleep. I’ve written in detail about how I prefer to sleep in complete darkness , surrounded by comfort , but to do this you need to have the right tools. Here are the devices, resources, and products I recommend—nay, even require —for perfect sleep.
Sleep in comfort
The first part of good sleep is comfortable sleep. There are several ways to do this, all of which I use every night. You must have the following things:
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Silk sheets are a must-have and usually cost less than you think ($30.99). I have different colors so I’m rarely without them, but my main tip is to wash them before using them to soften them a little.
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A fluffy blanket is also necessary. I have the UGG Alondra ($278), which also comes with two fluffy pillowcases, but it’s pricey. (I told you I take this seriously.) You can buy cheaper fluffy blankets that will keep you warm. Try this item from Sasttie for $38.99 , which also comes with pillowcases.
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ThisWorks Deep Sleep Pillow Spray ($20) is a mainstay in my home that I struggle with all the time. Has a soothing aroma; If you spray it on your pillowcases it will knock you off your feet.
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I need a humidifier so I don’t wake up with an uncomfortably dry mouth. It doesn’t actually improve sleep, but it does improve waking up, which is why I’m putting it on the list. I can’t find the little one I use anymore, but this one from Comfort Zone ($20) is super cool because it can be used with a disposable plastic water bottle, which is a good way to be eco-friendly.
Sleep in darkness and silence
Respect to everyone who falls asleep with the TV on, but it will never be me. Historically, the debate over whether or not to turn on the (bright and noisy!) TV before bed has rocked my relationships. I found workarounds:
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You need an eye mask, but I’ll tell you right now to stay away from the ones that have beads in them that need to be heated in the microwave or chilled in the refrigerator. They are good as long as the temperature lasts, but that doesn’t last long. Sometimes, depending on the material, they still transmit light. In addition, beads deteriorate over time and simply become unusable. Instead, go for the classics. Here’s a four-pack of satin eye masks ($9.99) that I prefer because they glide perfectly onto my silk pillowcases when I roll over. You don’t need any friction when you’re in deep sleep.
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When it comes to earplugs, you don’t have to spend money. Cheap foam earmuffs are fine and I’ve always found them sufficient to block out noise. Here are 60 pairs from Lysian for $8.89.
Effective sleep
Finally, I rest better knowing that I am accomplishing something even when I sleep. If you’re beauty-conscious, you’ll need the Overnight Curling Rod ($6.99) and Brow Tint ($15.99), but here are some grooming products that aren’t as glamorous or intense:
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A silk cap is key to keeping your hair from getting dirty overnight. Even if you sleep on silk pillowcases, your hair will be a mess in the morning unless you tie it in a ponytail, which is awkward and causes you to wake up with a bad hair day. A silk bonnet is your answer, but make sure it has an adjustable band to keep it from slipping at night. This one from Chlins ($9.99) ties securely in the front to prevent shifting.
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Acne patches take a few hours to work (but they do work), so they are best applied at night. I love Mighty Patch’s hydrocolloid treatments ($11.97), which actually suck out the dirt from pimples and leave your skin feeling smoother and less inflamed by morning. They also stick well no matter how rough you sleep, so you’re guaranteed not to wake up to stickers hidden all over the bed.
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Finally, your nightly skincare routine should end with some kind of nighttime product, depending on your needs. If you’re new to skin care, don’t worry: CeraVe is always a safe entry-level choice. Try their Skin Renewal Night Cream ($15.38) to boost your skin’s elasticity and moisture levels while you sleep.