The skincare treatments that do their best work when you’re sleeping

There aren’t many jobs that can be done better when you’re sleeping, but looking after your skin is one of them. In fact, skin expert Kaye Scott says the heavy lifting with a skincare regimen should be done at night – and not just before bedtime. “Try cleansing and doing your evening routine after dinner as many of us are too tired to do it properly if we leave it until just before bed,” she says.

Following this routine will also give the most powerful products more time on your skin while it’s in repair mode. “Research has shown that repair of DNA-damaged skin cells peaks, skin cells turn over more quickly, and there are increased rates of skin blood flow and skin permeability, at night,” dermatologist Dr De Anne Harris Collier explains.

So take advantage of the skin’s innate repair system and combine it with a replenishing skincare and haircare routine that works while you dream. Here is an after-hours beauty arsenal to cover you from top to toe.

It all begins with mulberry silk: swap your cotton pillowcases for a pair of Slip Silk Pillowcases ($95) with great slippage for well-rested skin and hair that’s sleek rather than frizzy. Then, once a week, apply a hair serum like Kérastase Nutritive Magic Night Serum ($72) from mid-lengths to ends (keep it next to your bed as a visual reminder to actually use it). To avoid messing your pristine pillows, try Silke London Hair Wrap ($98) or use a silk scarf to contain your serum-soaked hair.

When it comes to skin, it all begins with a thorough double cleanse to clear away make-up and the grime of the day. Next comes a clarifying retinol serum (we love No7 Pure Retinol Night Repair Cream, $62), which combines the firming power of peptides and retinol to address signs of ageing like fine lines, wrinkles and skin texture.

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This should be followed by a hydrating moisturiser such as CeraVe’s award-winning Moisturising Cream, ($22), which is full of ceramides to help maintain hydration and softness while the retinol works its magic.

For a weekly boost, sleep masks are our latest obsession as they create a seal on top of your skin to lock in active ingredients and help them penetrate better. Try Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Rehydrating Mask ($82), which is a rich, nourishing squalene balm that will leave your skin looking plump. So, get primed and sleep tight.