Waking up after a bad night’s sleep and finding yourself tired is more than just an impression. Sleep has a direct impact on the health and appearance of your skin, and even how it is perceived by others. A study published in ScienceDirect analyzed the effects of sleep deprivation: (…)
Waking up after a bad night’s sleep and finding yourself tired is more than just an impression. Sleep has a direct impact on the health and appearance of your skin, and even how it is perceived by others.
Research analyzing the effects of sleep deprivation
A study published in ScienceDirect looked at the effects of sleep deprivation. In one experiment, 24 women between the ages of 30 and 55 were asked to reduce their nightly sleep time by an average of three hours for two consecutive days. As a result, there was a significant loss of natural moisture, which resulted in significant changes in the skin, including dryness, loss of elasticity, slight increase in pH, and potentially more sensitivity.
According to a study published in the Oxford Journal of Neuroendocrinology, GH, the growth hormone, is released during deep sleep stages. It promotes the repair and rebuilding process and helps increase the production of collagen, a protein involved in skin tissue repair, muscle recovery, and maintaining skin firmness and elasticity.
Additionally, cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, drops to its lowest levels during this phase. A low percentage protects collagen, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier. High levels of prolactin, a hormone that helps regulate the immune system and cell growth, enhance tissue repair and help skin recover from daily stressors.
Good sleep changes skin health
According to dermatologist Dr. Isabella Dupin, professor at Afia University of Medical Education, good sleep is one of the fundamental pillars of healthy skin. “Sleep acts like a real free ‘night treatment’. While we sleep deeply, our skin goes into an intensive repair mode, during which collagen production increases, inflammation is reduced and the skin barrier is strengthened. If we ignore this rest, these mechanisms are directly compromised and the skin shows visible signs of fatigue and aging,” he explains.
Good sleep improves social reflexes
In addition to biological effects, sleeping well also has social effects. Research by the Royal Society has proven that certain facial and body cues influence people’s impressions of us. People who are sleep-deprived report being less optimistic and sociable, have more difficulty understanding and expressing their emotions, have less empathy, and are more likely to have accidents.
sleep is a good investment
“Investing in good sleep habits is just as important as using good cosmetics or maintaining a balanced diet. When we sleep well, our bodies do us a favor. Our skin regenerates, signs of fatigue decrease, and we feel better about the world. Even the way you present yourself will be improved. Sleep is a powerful and accessible self-care tool, and understanding this can enhance the results of other beauty and health strategies,” concludes Dr. Isabella Dupin.
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