Scientific studies involving photographic tests have proven that sleep deprived individuals may be found to be less attractive to onlookers. As if not looking your best is not enough of a reason to hit the sheets; what about not feeling your best? Lacking adequate rest can potentially wreak havoc on your body and health from the inside out.

What can result from a lady not getting enough rest? Sleep deprivation has been linked to disease, depression and even weight gain. With the winter months behind us and bikini wonderland right around the corner a few extra pounds is probably not what most of us women want.

So then, how much sleep does the average adult need to look well-rested and function properly? The recommended amount of sleep for adults is 6 to 8 hours a night. Anything less and you’re not letting your body — let alone your skin — fully rejuvenate. Therefore, be sure to get your beauty rest and your skin and health will thank you.

Many find it difficult to fall asleep at night. Here are a few quick tips to help you slumber:

• Workout daily. Even 20 minutes of walking can help keep stress hormones from interfering with your sleep.
• Don’t binge right before bed. Yes, that fare looks good, but it has the potential to make you restless because an active digestive system can disrupt sleep. Yet don’t go to sleep hungry, either. Instead, have a balanced meal of sleep-promoting foods such as tuna, almonds and eggs to lull you into Snoozeville.
• Kanye may want to see all of the lights, but your body doesn’t. Minimize light, noise and temperature extremes; (your bedroom should be kept at about 68 degrees) anything that might disrupt a comfortable environment.
• Beds are for sleeping and physical relations only. Sleep specialists recommend not reading, watching TV, working or discussing important issues in bed.
• Consume Starbucks and Coffee Bean in the morning hours. Caffeine, nicotine or other stimulants should be avoided within four hours of bedtime. Caffeine effects can take up to eight hours to wear off.