Though “beauty sleep” may sound like a fairy tale, research confirms that sleep directly shapes how our skin looks, how youthful it appears, and even how attractive others perceive us to be.
There are a number of ways your sleep, or lack of sleep, affects your skin, says Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, an Associate Professor of Neurology at the University of Pittsburgh.
The skin is your body’s largest organ, and it works hard while you sleep. Getting enough sleep promotes hydration and barrier function, helping your skin maintain moisture and resist irritation.
Not getting enough sleep increases water loss through the skin, which leaves the skin drier and more vulnerable to damage and signs of aging.
Sleep also has a direct effect on acne. Poor sleep can raise inflammation and stress hormones such as cortisol, both of which may worsen breakouts.
Consistent “beauty sleep” supports your skin’s ability to regulate oil production and recover from irritation and aids in collagen repair and skin elasticity.
Prioritizing sleep is a powerful and accessible way to support appearance and overall health.
Read the full article on The Conversation here.
Source: The Conversation