From Hype to Healf : using the 'Morning Shed' care for your skin and sleep

It’s all fun and games until you look in the mirror. One TikToker describes it as an intruder's worst nightmare. Nevertheless, people are enjoying the theatrics of influencers peeling off layers of treatments from the night before to reveal a fresh face in the morning. Layer upon layer and based on the concept that “the uglier you go to bed, the prettier you wake up”, Morning Shedding is sweeping the world of beauty by a storm and sparking much debate amongst experts and beauty lovers everywhere. 

What else are the followers using?

Typical products commonly used in the "morning shed" routine include a vast array of face masks, lip serums and sleep aids. The complex ritual also combines overnight collagen wrap masks, anti-wrinkle patches, jaw straps, silky bonnets and heatless curlers. 

The catch? Many products advertised lack natural benefits for your beauty and health. Not to mention the time wasted in using all the recommended products every single night, which is not always necessary. We think we can do better.

1) CLEARstem Pregame Face Mask

Introducing Pregame, the superior replacement when it comes to generic face masks typically used in the trend. It provides a natural alternative and harnesses the exfoliating power of pineapple, AHA and bamboo to prepare the skin for overnight rejuvenation. This mask promises to leave your skin baby smooth and photo-ready as soon as you open your eyes.

2) Grace & Stella Energy Drink Eye Mask

Nutrient packed, cooling and de-puffing results achieved with the high quality and all-natural formulation of Grace & Stella eye patches. Cheaper versions of a product like this may include harsh chemicals which aren’t always safe for use. Buying from trustworthy brands, with the best quality materials used, will help you wake up looking refreshed. It fits perfectly into your Morning Shed routine but with even better results.

3) Agent Nateur holi (bright) Resurface Glass Face Mask

The strong anti-ageing agenda of the Morning Shed routine is apparent in most of its variations. We think Agent Nateur has this covered as an effective option in minimising fine lines and wrinkles and creating an enviable, glass-like and ageless glow. With top-quality ingredients proven to create a smooth texture, this product has a lower risk of irritation compared to those of conventional beauty brands containing drying ingredients such as retinol.

You don’t have to use these products every night if your skin doesn’t require this level of moisturisation. If it suits you, a few times during the week should be sufficient to see the benefits.

Editor's pick:

As the saying goes: “It’s called beauty sleep for a reason”. Good sleep helps with better brain performance, being in a better mood, and everything your body does for you to look fresh and well-rested in the morning. What’s more, not getting enough quality sleep on a regular basis increases the risk of many diseases and disorders.

Many critics and reviewers of the Morning Shed say that going overboard with restrictive beauty product applications could be too uncomfortable to sleep in and therefore defeat the purpose of waking up refreshed.

Furthermore, use of electronic devices at night interferes with both the amount and quality of sleep. Try to limit your interactions with them and create a calming and peaceful space before you sleep.

However, one thing most Morning Shedders can agree on is mouth taping. Mouth taping promotes nasal breathing during sleep, potentially reducing snoring and improving sleep quality, while supporting better oxygen flow, dental health and brain health.

Hostage Tape Mouth Tape

Ditch poorly made products that may irritate your skin or cause discomfort while you sleep and ensure you use a good quality product, purpose built with fewer risks. We love Hostage because it has a flexible fit and may be used if you have facial hair. It’s also hypoallergenic for sensitive skin and available in multiple shades.

When you are sleeping, your body is rejuvenating, and the best products will help to amplify this process. A night time routine is very personal. But, natural products are always the best choice, especially when you are exposed to them throughout the night in your sleep.

Queen of the Thrones Golden Organic Castor Oil & Castor Oil Head Wrap

The organic castor oil head wrap will give your scalp and hair a real boost, serving as a 100% organic and powerful alternative to chemical treatments. The head wrap helps keep the oil in place for maximum hydration and hair strength — ideal if you're looking to step up your morning shed treatment with a more natural solution.

A word of advice: Be aware you will probably need to wash the castor oil out of your hair in the morning as it is thick in consistency. You may do this around once a week or once a month, depending on the texture of your hair.

You can also use castor oil to make a castor oil patch over the abdomen . This is a popular step amongst Morning Shedders, recognised anecdotally for its ability to reduce bloating and improve digestion. The scientific evidence for castor oil packing illustrates its ability to reduce constipation and there is a large amount of anecdotal evidence to support its use in relieving bloating associated with menstrual discomfort.

Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

This lavender pillow spray is designed to induce deep, restorative sleep and calm any night-time anxiety. It's a natural aroma that enhances your bedtime wellness routine by making it easier to relax and fall asleep quicker, so you wake up refreshed.