You know sleep is essential for a healthy body and a strong immune system. But did you know those eight hours of beauty sleep each night benefit the skin as well? Researchers have discovered that there is indeed a correlation between the time you spend in dreamland and the signs of aging on your skin.

First of its Kind

The study conducted in 2013 at University Hospitals Case Medical Center was touted as the “first of its kind” to examine the direct link between sleep and skin aging. Researchers looked at 60 women between the ages of 30 and 49. Half of the women in the study fell into the “poor sleep” category, while the other half consistently got sufficient shut-eye. Determinations of “good” vs. “bad” sleep were made by participants completing the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index questionnaire and maintaining a sleep log during the one week duration of the study.

Researchers examined the skin of women in both groups through visual examinations and a series of non-invasive skin tests. They found that women in the “good” sleep category were able to recover more efficiently from skin stressors and even heal faster from sunburn. On the other hand, women in the “poor” sleep category had increased signs of aging on the skin, such as fine lines, reduced elasticity and uneven skin tone.

Researchers determined their findings to be “statistically significant,” by using the SCINEXA skin aging scoring system. Women who got sufficient sleep on a regular basis had an average score of 4.4 on the SCINEXA scale. Women who did not get enough sleep consistently had an average score of 2.2 on the same scale.

Time to Recover

The hours you spend sleeping are critical for the skin to be able to recover from a wide range of stressors it faces throughout the day. Lack of sleep affects blood flow, which in turn causes the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Sleep deprivation can also increase your stress levels, which can be apparent on your face and make you like tired, tense or angry.

During the sleep cycles, the skin goes through a complex process of growing new cells to replace old cells that lead to a dull, dry complexion. Hormonal changes that occur during sleep can also have a direct impact on the health of your skin. Just one good night’s sleep is all your skin needs to enjoy a full recovery process and a refreshed, healthy glow the next day.

When it comes to caring for your skin, your eight hours of shut-eye should be an important part of every day. To learn more about proper skin care or methods for reversing damage that has already occurred, contact Incredible Veins Skin & Body at 818-423-5828.