English version | Test Drive: sleep

Insomnia has a profound impact on our mental health. But there’s a series of options that help to achieve the (longed for) beauty sleep and avoid disturbing the psyche. Vogue has tested some hypotheses that guarantee more nights just like A Dream Woman and less like Nightmare on Elm Street.

Promises: With lavender, vetiver, and wild chamomile oils, this spray releases relaxing vibrations that provide an environment conducive to a deep sleep. Vogue's word: Experiencing the Deep Sleep Pillow Spray after having read so many positive reviews about it is like going to the cinema to see a movie that everyone raved about - expectations are too high. This is more or less what happened in my experience with this product. What really stood out was the smell, an ultra-pleasant mixture of ingredients that is, in itself, a balm for the senses. Other than that, nothing relevant happened. The longed-for state of relaxation never came. Maybe it was just a matter of timing. Or maybe it was a casting error - people whose sleep is admittedly difficult shouldn't try things like this at home. Verdict: to me - and writing this is painful, because I am one in a million - it (didn’t) work.

Deep Sleep Pillow Spray, € 22.95, This Works, at Lookfantastic.pt.

Promises: In terms of benefits, it is an anti-inflammatory and antifungal oil, full of antioxidants that help to mitigate expression wrinkles and promote skin regeneration. It has also a calming and relaxing aroma, and that’s why lavender is regularly suggested in aromatherapy as a good option for sleep induction, because it helps you sleep better, as well as reducing insomnia, depression, stress and anxiety. Its topical use in the first trimester of pregnancy is the only time when it’s contraindicated, since studies indicate that its natural chemicals interfere with the hormonal system. Vogue's word: The aroma of lavender is predominant in this organic oil, but it is balanced with fresh notes that attenuate its character that some consider nauseating. You can apply a drop to the temples and soles of the feet, which is what I did, or diluted in water to later spray on a handkerchief that you can place near the pillow. The feeling of relaxation is immediate and falling asleep was quick and peaceful, especially for those who have difficulty falling asleep, which is my case. If you have nothing against lavender, this natural alternative is a good solution to alleviate daily struggles. 

Organic Lavender Essential Oil, € 11, Rowse.

Promises: A facial oil with distilled plants to regenerate, repair and invigorate the skin barrier at night. Vogue's word: With a light texture that is quickly absorbed by the skin, and an aroma that I associate with a state of total relaxation, this product has become a staple in my p.m. routine. I like to apply two drops every night, pressing the concentrate gently on the face, and finish with a massage, using Sarah Chapman's The Facialist for an even more pleasurable moment of self-care. And my skin is grateful for it: when I wake up, the smoothness and luminosity of the complexion are evident. 

Midnight Recovery Concentrate, 30ml, € 44.99, Kiehl’s.

*Originally published on Vogue Portugal's The Madness Issue.