Lotioning your face and hands before going to bed is a good idea for everyone, man or woman. If you’re well-hydrated, you’re going to look better. Putting lotion on and letting it soak in helps you do this. If you live in a dry climate, the difference it makes is noticible.
The skin is the largest organ in the body. When it gets dry and cracked, it’s a health hazard. This organ is your body’s first line of defense.
There is no real downside to putting on lotion before bed if it’s a fast-drying one. It’s a good idea for your face and hands, but also for your feet.
You don’t need to slather it on if you do it regularly. Take a dab in your hand and work it into your skin.
It doesn’t necessarily transfer onto your pillowcase and bedsheets, not if you sit up for awhile. You can read or stretch while the lotion gets absorbed. It only takes a few minutes.
Depending on your situation, you might want to put it on from head to toe. Most people will want to emphasize putting it on their face and hands. Those areas bear the brunt of your day-to-day activities.
Unless you’re trying to accomplish a certain purpose, the lotion doesn’t need to be anything fancy or expensive. It’s enough that it be moisturizing.
A lotion-application routine is neglected by many rational, data-driven people, especially men. It’s hard to quantify the difference it makes to your appearance. The skin on your face won’t crack from dryness (with the exception of your lips when it’s dry, windy and cold). Hands, especially if you have to wash them a lot, take a lot of abuse from dryness. In extreme cases, you’re going to want to put some fast-drying lotion on multiple times a day.
What lotion to use?
The answer depends on your goals.
General moisturizing? Any fast-absorbing lotion will work.
If you find it causes a rash or itching, don’t use it! You’re having a bad reaction. Use another one.
Good smell? Choose a smell you like. Before bed, choose a fragrance you find relaxing or neutral.
Try before you buy. You don’t want one that feels tacky when it dries.
Consider this as a commercial, a public service bulletin, or some random advice to add a little lotion to your bedtime routine.
It can make a positive difference in how you look and in your skin condition.
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James Cobb RN, MSN, is the founder of the Dream Recovery System, a top sleep blog, five years running.
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