Sleep is a fundamental human need and plays a vital role in overall health and well-being. Poor sleep can lead to problems, stress, obesity, and diabetes. Conversely, getting enough quality sleep can help keep people healthy. However, it can also affect people’s overall skin health.
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, so it’s no surprise that what you do (and don’t do) can have a significant impact on your health. And one of the things that can affect your skin’s health is the way you sleep. So here’s what you need to know about sleeping and skin health.
What Happens When You Sleep?
People sleep to recharge their bodies and minds. During sleep, the body’s systems operate more restful, and the brain processes information from the day. As a result, their cells repair themselves, and hormones are released that support growth and development.
There are two main types of sleep: REM (rapid eye movement) sleep and non-REM sleep. Each type has its distinct characteristics and benefits.
Non-REM sleep is the quieter, restorative phase of sleep. It makes up 75-80% of total sleep time in adults. Non-REM sleep is divided into two stages: light sleep and deep sleep. Which eventually transitions to REM sleep if the person has been sleeping long enough. Each stage has its distinct characteristics and benefits. Light sleep is the stage between being awake and asleep. During this stage, people may feel drowsy, and their eyes may droop. Deep sleep is the stage when people are hardest to wake up. People in a deep sleep often snore because the muscles in the throat relax.
REM sleep is when people dream. It is an active phase of sleep during which dreams occur. It makes up 20-25% of total sleep time in adults. During REM sleep, the brain is highly active, and blood flow to the brain increases. It helps to consolidate memories and supports learning and mood. The eyes move rapidly during this stage of sleep, hence the name “rapid eye movement.”
When you sleep, your body goes into a resting state. During this time, your body repairs and regenerates cells, which can help improve overall health. Sleep is also vital for cognitive function and memory.
Sleep has been related to all positive things in life. First, it’s related to improved functioning because you’re rested, your metabolism is better, and you have more energy.
Edward Kendall was the founder of this particular hormone, all the way back in 1946. He tested the effects of extracts from different adrenal glands on rats. Cortisol is vital for maintaining blood pressure and blood sugar levels, but when it’s released in excess, it can harm health. For example, cortisol has been linked to weight gain, anxiety, and even heart disease.
It’s also been known to be associated with skin health.
Cortisol and Skin Health
Cortisol can also break down collagen, a protein that helps keep skin looking plump and smooth. In addition, cortisol can also increase inflammation, which can lead to acne breakouts. The lack of sleep can also lead to puffy eyes, which don’t look good in the morning.
On the other hand, getting enough quality sleep can help improve skin health. When you sleep, your body produces human growth hormone (HGH), which helps repair damage and regenerate cells. HGH also helps with collagen production, so getting enough sleep can help keep skin looking youthful and healthy.
Sleep and Skin Treatment
There are a few different ways that can help improve skin health. First, getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels, which can, in turn, help improve skin health. A humidifier in your bedroom can also help keep skin hydrated and healthy. Finally, a face mask or night cream before bed can help lock in moisture and nourish your skin overnight.
You also have other options when it comes to puffy eyes due to a long night of not sleeping. First, you can consider shopping online for puffy eye creams. These creams can help reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. You can also try placing a cold compress on your eyes for a few minutes to help reduce swelling. But sleeping early is the best way to treat and avoid puffy eyes in the first place.
Sleep is critical for overall health and well-being. It allows the body to recharge and repair itself and supports learning and memory. Getting enough quality sleep can help improve skin health by reducing stress levels, increasing collagen production, and keeping skin hydrated. It’s the best skincare that money can’t buy, so make sure to get your beauty sleep!
