If it were up to some beauty experts, every night before we go to bed, we'd all be thoroughly cleansing (twice), toning, moisturising, applying serum or face oil and giving ourselves a facial massage.

In reality, most of us don't have the time (or the patience) for a multi-step routine, but we could really benefit from some winding down time, away from phone or TV screens - especially those who struggle to fall asleep at night.

Incorporating lavender into your evening regime could be just what you need, because the scent of the purple flower, and more specifically a component called linalool, has been shown to have a sedative effect. Brands have quickly cottoned onto the benefits of this clever plant, which is why you can now find all kinds of masks, moisturisers and bathing products that are effective in skincare terms and help you nod off, giving a whole new meaning to the term beauty sleep.

For the best results, take a few deep breaths, so you can really inhale the soporific scent and let it work its magic.

Here are three lavender beauty products to get you started...

1. Temple Spa Repose Aromatherapy Resting Cream, £40

A luxurious night cream that moisturises and delivers antioxidants (for fighting the signs of ageing), this so-called 'spa in a jar' is infused with chamomile, frankincense and lavender, all of which are intended to calm your mind and make it easier to fall asleep.

2. Lush Twilight Bath Bomb, £3.95 each

Another fan favourite from the slumber specialists at Lush, the Twilight bath bomb contains a similar scent blend, with the addition of benzoin resinoid, which has a warm vanilla-esque quality. Sit back and relax in the tub as the pink and violet bomb dissolves and the dreamy aroma is released.

3. Neal's Yard Lavender Bath Salts, £14.50

Neal's Yard's new range of bath salts help to soften your skin and soothe your muscles and your mind. Pour a generous helping of the lavender-infused sea salt crystals into a warm bath to unleash the relaxing floral fragrance.