Sleep patches: a practical guide
Sleep matters, and plenty of people find it hard to come by. As interest in wellness routines has grown, sleep patches have emerged as one option: wearable products applied to the skin before bed, designed to release ingredients gradually overnight.
What are sleep patches?
A sleep patch is a topical wellness product worn on the skin overnight. Rather than swallowing a capsule, you apply the patch before bed and the ingredients embedded in it are released slowly over several hours.
Why people use them
- Convenience and ease of use
- Gradual overnight release
- Nothing to swallow before bed
- Travel friendly format
- Simple to slot into an existing routine
Sleep patches are generally used alongside other habits: a consistent bedtime, less screen time in the evening, and a calm room.
Common ingredients
Sleep patches typically contain ingredients traditionally associated with relaxation and evening routines. These may include:
- Botanical extracts with a long history of use for calm
- Vitamins involved in nervous system function
- Amino acids traditionally associated with relaxation
- Plant derived compounds used in wellness traditions
BonPatch SLEEP
BonPatch SLEEP is a lavender scented topical patch designed to be worn overnight, formulated with valerian, passion flower, hops and hemp extracts, ingredients traditionally used to support relaxation and a calm evening routine. It is melatonin free.
How to choose
Products, materials and formats vary between brands. Ingredient transparency is the thing worth checking first: a brand should tell you exactly what is in the patch and how much. Beyond that, consider the format, the adhesive, and whether the routine suits how you actually live.
Do they work?
Individual experiences vary. Sleep quality is influenced by stress, sleep hygiene, environment and lifestyle, and a patch is one component of a routine rather than a substitute for the rest of it.
Frequently asked questions
How long should you wear a sleep patch?
Most are designed to be worn overnight, typically six to eight hours.
Are sleep patches safe?
Most use ingredients commonly found in wellness products. As with anything, review the ingredient list and speak to a healthcare professional if you have questions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take other medication.
How do sleep patches compare to melatonin?
They are different formats with different ingredients. Which suits you depends on your own preferences and routine.
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