Mala McAlpin It turns out that the term ‘beauty sleep’ exists for a very good reason, and Chronobiology is one of the latest terms you may have seen buzzing about the skincare industry of late. The term refers to the field of biology that studies how living organisms adapt and change according to the solar and lunar systems. In the case of skincare, it focuses on the skin’s natural biorhythms and how they vary from day to night, and how products can complement these natural processes. During the day, skin is susceptible to damage from UV exposure and pollutants, with the damage from this exposure being repaired at night.
In most cases, skincare using the term Chronobiology is designed to be used at night, as studies suggest that during sleep, our skin transitions into a much more reparative, regenerative state, that topical products are better absorbed, even that cellular renewal, along with blood and lymph flow, rates are increased during sleep. If this renewal process is disturbed or degraded, skin can not heal as effectively, leading to further damage and in turn, speeding the ageing process.
We’re sure to continue seeing more and more of this new skincare trend, so for now, here are a few of our favourites:
Payot Blue Techni Liss Concentre
This serum fights against the effects of desynchronised skin biorhythms, bringing a daily boost with a high concentration of three sources of hyaluronic acid for visibly smoothed, plumped skin, and filled lines and wrinkles.
Sothys Noctuelle Chrono-Drestressing Sleep Mask
A formula containing a concentration of stabilised vitamin C, oxygen-like nasturtium plant extract, and other actives to brighten and restore skin, including Chaste Tree phyto-endorphins that stimulate cellular activity and Lindera Extract to restore the expression of CLOCK genes (which govern the neurological and endocrine rhythm). Also boasts a fragrance to promote sleep.
Alpha H Beauty Sleep Power Peel
Beauty Sleep Power Peel is a dynamic dual-purpose resurfacing treatment and anti-ageing skin restorative that boosts collagen and stimulates cellular renewal while helping to reduce sun-induced ageing, scarring, acne and wrinkles. A combination of Glycolic Acid, Retinol, Chronodyn (a chronobiological cell energiser) Hydranov-P and Axolight work during the night for a fresher, firmer complexion.
Black Chicken Nocturnalist Night Serum
An all natural serum suitable for all skin conditions, Nocturnalist revitalises for a fresh, radiant complexion overnight. While skin cells are most receptive to absorbing vital nutrients, intense properties of prickly pear, neroli, meadowfoam and acai are delivered deeply into skin to intensely hydrate, oxidise, treat dryness and inflammation, repair and regenerate, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and boost collagen production.
Mavala Chronobiological Day Serum
A daytime treatment to strengthen skin’s natural defensive biorhythm, Anti-Age Pro Day Serum provides skin a barrier from daily stresses and minimises the appearance of wrinkles. This advanced exceptional skincare combines chronopeptides able to mimic the benefits of daylight on the skin in order to preserve its own protective potential. Also includes Alpine Rose stem cells, whose resistance to extreme climate give them unique anti-ageing properties.
