For two and a half years, my partner and I shared a life, but not a bed. My heavy snoring and their light sleep made co-sleeping a no-go, relegating me to the couch whenever I stayed over. Earplugs, BreatheRight strips, even a Joker-esque mask – nothing worked. Finally, I caved to my partner’s pleas and saw a sleep doctor. One night in my own bed, hooked up to a sleep-measuring device, revealed the culprit: sleep apnea. I needed a CPAP machine.
Initially, I felt a pang of disappointment, not just because of the bulky mask, but also because of a deeply ingrained societal stigma. The still prevalent fatphobia and ableism convinced me that needing a device was somehow a failure. However, the reality of the CPAP was far from monstrous. It fit neatly into a suitcase, was easy to assemble, and required only purified water. The nasal mask, though initially awkward, became second nature within months.
My sleep doctor promised increased daytime energy with regular CPAP use, and he wasn’t wrong. I feel more awake now, but an unexpected perk has been the improvement in my skin. While the machine itself might not directly cause the glow-up (although there’s evidence linking sleep apnea treatment to reduced redness and puffiness), the CPAP’s presence in my life has shifted my skincare routine to the morning.
I used to be a night-time skincare devotee, but with the CPAP, I’ve embraced a morning ritual. It’s crazy how much I neglected my expensive creams and serums, despite my collection of everything from [Insert Brand Name] to the elusive [Insert Product Name]. I’d often forget my nightly skincare routine, letting those pricey potions gather dust.
Now, my routine is simple: wash my face with my favorite [Insert Brand Name] cleanser, pop on my mask, and drift off. In the morning, I unleash the skincare magic, applying oils, serums, and a healthy dose of sunscreen, ensuring I only use my [Insert Brand Name] cream once a week (it’s pricey!).
While I sometimes miss falling asleep on my laptop, surrounded by Doritos crumbs, the restful nights, cozy bonding with my partner, and newfound skin radiance far outweigh those moments of sleep-deprived, snack-induced slumber. I wouldn’t trade my CPAP (and the accompanying glow, previously only achieved through copious amounts of [Insert Drink Name]) for anything.
