8makeup.com » Skin Care

Wednesday, 18-04-2012 19:16

Sleep Your Way to Better Skin

News related: sleep

Writing about beauty products means you get some weird stuff to try. Example: a few weeks ago, I received a pillowcase, something called SkinGlow, infused with minuscule copper fibers that supposedly improve skin.

It seemed so far-fetched, that I gave it a shot.

The company says that while you sleep, your body's moisture activates the copper ions, which help reduce the appearance of fine lines and other skin issues. I called New York City-based dermatologist Yael Halaas to see if this was all a bunch of hooey. Here's what she thinks.

"Copper is naturally antibacterial, so it can definitely help with acne," she says. "It'll help breakouts appear less red." Well, in my own experience, after using this thing for a month, the oh-so-lovely breakouts on my chin have nearly disappeared (although I've also been using a topical antibiotic that my derm prescribed for me, so it's hard to tell which is responsible).

Halaas says that the idea of sticking copper fibers in fabric makes sense, unlike other dubious examples. (Remember those cellulite-busting leggings and moisturizing tights?) "Since copper is a metal, it won't break down, unlike other ingredients which have an expiration date," she says. (As long as you don't use fabric softener, the effects of the bedding won't be diminished even after washing.)

Bottom line? I figure I use a pillowcase every night anyway, so it certainly can't hurt to try this one. It's soft, too, in case you were wondering.

--Jill Schuck Taylor