From detox water to cleansing tonics, have you ever wondered why we instinctively save all our self-care rituals for the morning? It is not just that skincare or detox routines feel right in the morning; rather, we do it because it aligns with the sun cycle.
Advisors and Healthcare explains, “As the sun rises, our circadian rhythm switches on several physiological processes — cortisol and insulin rise, melatonin shuts down and the body gets ready for activity.”
After a 10–12 hour overnight fast, she says, the digestive system is clear, hormones are active, and the body has just finished repairing itself during sleep.By morning, the body has done its housekeeping. Once you pass your bowel movement, your system is clean and ready to take in nutrients. This is when herbal drinks, lemon water, seeds, or detox potions actually work.
However, in contrast, everything slows down in the evening. “As the sun sets, digestion, elimination and even hormone activity begin to drop. The body shifts from doing to repairing, which is why these detox rituals don’t add much value at night.
WHY SKINCARE LOVES THE MORNING TOO
Not only our gut but also our skin follows the body’s natural circadian cycle, responding differently at various times of the day. “In the morning, the skin is quite ready to receive nutrients and antioxidants and it needs protection the most.”
She stresses that you don’t need 12 or 15 steps. “I believe in minimalism when it comes to skincare. The less you give, the more your skin absorbs. A simple four-step routine is enough.”
That our skin shows the effects of our sleep , most certainly in the morning. “If you’ve had beauty sleep, you wake up glowing. If not, your eyes sag, you see dark circles your skin looks dull, and it’s more prone to sun damage.”
For targeted care, she suggests vitamin C for pigmented, tanned or freckle-prone skin, and niacinamide for oily, open-pored skin where sebum is hard to control. And whatever you do, don’t skip sunscreen. “Just make sure you cover your face, neck, and hands thoroughly,” she adds.