Sleep patches are gaining popularity—but why do so many people report deeper, more restorative sleep? The secret lies in how melatonin is absorbed through the skin.
How Melatonin Patches Work
1. Direct Bloodstream Absorption
Instead of being broken down by the liver, melatonin from a patch enters circulation directly.
2. Slow & Steady Release
Patches release melatonin over several hours, supporting sleep maintenance, not just sleep onset.
3. Higher Bioavailability
Studies show transdermal melatonin reaches more stable and effective levels than oral melatonin.
What the Research Shows
Improved Sleep Maintenance
One clinical study found that transdermal melatonin resulted in:
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55 minutes less nighttime wakefulness
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20 minutes more REM sleep
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Increased Stage 2 sleep (deep restorative sleep)
Better for Irregular Schedules
Researchers found melatonin patches helped with:
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Shift work
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Jet lag
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Day sleeping
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Maintaining circadian rhythm
Who Benefits Most from Sleep Patches?
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People who wake up at night
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Those who struggle staying asleep
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Travelers and shift workers
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Anyone wanting deeper, uninterrupted rest
Conclusion
Sleep patches offer a clinically supported way to improve sleep depth and continuity. With smoother absorption and longer-lasting effects, they may outperform oral melatonin for many people.