Last Updated on November 14, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
Not much is known about how melatonin works as a cream, but one theory is that when applied to the skin, it is absorbed and enters the bloodstream, which can help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.
There is some scientific evidence to support the use of melatonin for certain conditions, such as jet lag and insomnia, but more research is needed. Melatonin is generally considered safe, but there are a few potential side effects, such as headache and dizziness.
If you’re considering using melatonin cream, this article will provide you with everything you need to know, including how to use it, its science, and when to use it.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes and should not be taken as medical and professional advice, nor do we claim it as accurate or reflect the view of a homoeopath or doctor. Always consult your doctor or natural health practitioner for questions.
But First: What Is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced naturally by the body. It is involved in the body’s sleep-wake cycle, and melatonin levels increase at night and decrease during the day.
Exposure to light can reduce the body’s production of melatonin, which is why people often find it difficult to sleep when exposed to bright lights, such as those from electronic devices, at night.
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Does Melatonin Cream Make You Sleep?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as everyone’s physiology and response to melatonin differ.
Some people find that using a topical melatonin cream helps them sleep, while others find it does not have much effect.
If you are considering using a melatonin cream to help you sleep, it is best to speak with your doctor first to discuss whether it is right for you.
When To Use Melatonin Cream For Sleep?
Many factors can affect our body’s natural sleep rhythm, such as stress, travel, work schedule changes, etc. This can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. If you’re struggling with sleep issues, consider using a melatonin cream. But when is the best time to use it?
The answer may depend on the type of sleep issue you’re experiencing. For example, if you have jet lag, using a melatonin cream when you arrive at your destination can help reset your body’s clock so you can fall asleep more easily. If you have a shift work sleep disorder, using the cream can help you adjust to the new sleep schedule.
Talk to your doctor about whether a melatonin cream suits you and when you should use it. They can also guide the best dosage for your needs.
Generally, it’s safe to use a melatonin cream once or twice daily, and some people find that using it every night helps them sleep better. But do start with the lowest possible dose and increase it slowly as needed until you find the amount that works best for you.
Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about using a melatonin cream. They can help you decide if this option is right for you and provide guidance.
The 5 Major Benefits Of Melatonin Cream For Sleep
1. It May Help You Fall Asleep Faster
One of the most common reasons people use melatonin cream is to help them fall asleep faster. Melatonin is involved in the body’s sleep-wake cycle, and melatonin levels increase at night and decrease during the day.
Exposure to light can reduce the body’s production of melatonin, which is why people often find it difficult to sleep when exposed to bright lights, such as those from electronic devices, at night.
Applying a melatonin cream to the skin can help increase melatonin levels in the body, making it easier to fall asleep.
2. It May Help You Stay Asleep
In addition to helping you fall asleep, melatonin cream may help you stay asleep throughout the night. The fact that melatonin is involved in the sleep-wake cycle means it can also help regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle.
If you have a sleep disorder that causes you to wake up frequently throughout the night, using a melatonin cream may help you stay asleep for extended periods.
3. It Is Non-Habit Forming
Unlike some sleep aids, melatonin cream is non-habit forming. This means you can use it as needed without worrying about developing a dependence on the product.
With other sleep aids, such as Benzodiazepines, there is a risk of developing a dependence on it. This means you may need to take higher and higher doses to get the same effect.
With melatonin cream, you can stop using it at any time without worrying about withdrawal symptoms or other side effects, but of course, ask your doctor.
4. It Is Safe For Most People
Melatonin cream is considered safe for most people. There are no known severe side effects associated with using the product.
Some people may experience mild side effects, such as skin irritation when they use the cream. If you experience any side effects, stop using the product and talk to your doctor.
5 It May Prepare Your Skin For The Next Day
In addition to helping you sleep better, melatonin cream may also benefit your skin. Melatonin is an antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, and they are thought to contribute to the ageing process. Applying a melatonin cream to your skin can help protect it from damage caused by free radicals.
This may help keep your skin looking younger and more radiant.
How to Use Melatonin Cream
Melatonin cream is typically applied to the skin about 30 minutes before bedtime. Therefore, it is essential to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
The amount of cream applied will vary depending on the product’s strength. In general, a pea-sized amount is sufficient. The cream can be applied to any skin area, but it is typically applied to the wrists, ankles, or behind the knees.
After applying the cream, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly. You should also avoid touching your eyes or face until the cream has been absorbed into your skin.
It usually takes about 30 minutes for melatonin to take effect. Once it does, you should feel sleepy and be able to fall asleep more easily.
Side Effects of Melatonin Cream
Melatonin cream is generally safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effect is drowsiness. Other potential side effects include headache, nausea, and dizziness.
If you experience any side effects from melatonin cream, stop using it and speak to your doctor.
It is also essential to speak to your doctor before using melatonin cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there is limited safety information available.
Melatonin cream is a safe and effective way to improve sleep quality. However, as with any supplement, it is always best to speak to a doctor before starting use.
This is especially important if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking medications, as melatonin can interact with some medicines.
Top Tips When Using Melatonin Cream for Sleep
Here are some top tips to keep in mind when using melatonin cream for sleep:
1. Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
2. Apply the cream to your skin about 30 minutes before bedtime.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the cream.
4. Avoid touching your eyes or face until the cream has been absorbed into your skin.
5. If you experience any side effects, stop using the cream and speak to your doctor.
6. Speak to your doctor before using melatonin cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
7. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, as melatonin can interact with some medication.
8. Store melatonin cream in a cool, dark place.
With these tips in mind, you can use melatonin cream safely and effectively to improve your sleep quality.
FAQs
Can the skin absorb melatonin?
Yes, melatonin can be absorbed through the skin.
Is it safe to use melatonin cream every night?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as everyone’s physiology and response to melatonin differ. Therefore, if you are considering using a melatonin cream every night, it is best to speak with your doctor first to discuss whether it is right for you.
How much melatonin cream to use?
The amount of melatonin cream to use will vary depending on the product’s strength. In general, a pea-sized amount is sufficient. The cream can be applied to any skin area, but it is typically applied to the wrists, ankles, or behind the knees.
When should I apply melatonin cream?
It is typically recommended to apply melatonin cream about 30 minutes before bedtime.
The Bottom Line
Melatonin cream is a safe and effective way to improve sleep quality. However, speaking to your doctor before starting use is always best. This is especially important if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking medications, as melatonin can interact with some medicines.
When used as directed, melatonin cream is generally well-tolerated and associated with few side effects. The most common side effect is drowsiness. But if you experience any side effects from melatonin cream, stop using it and speak to your doctor.
With these tips in mind, you can use melatonin cream safely and effectively to improve your sleep quality.