Beauty Sleep: Fact Or Fiction
A busy and stressful life you lead in a state of sleep deficit can be exhausting, but did you know it can prematurely age your skin?
The dark circles under your eyes state the obvious when it comes to a lackluster complexion however sleep deprivation can also make the skin puffy, and increases age spots.
The Science Of Sleep
Throughout your waking hours, your skin is raging a war against environmental factors such as pollution and harmful UV rays. During the deeper phases of sleep, your body produces growth hormone, a powerful component in skin repair and stimulates collagen growth.
Collagen is a protein, part of the connective tissues which helps to strengthen and improve the elasticity of the skin. This new growth lets you wake with brighter, fresher vibrant skin. Other hormones also come into play during your nighttime slumber.
When we sleep cortisol (the stress hormone) is reduced. This hormone is responsible for the thinning of skin. Additionally, melatonin (the hormone which regulates our sleep-wake cycle) is increased which acts as an antioxidant towards fine lines and age spots.
Rest & Replenishment
Sleep also produces some changes to your body's water delivery and circulatory system. In anticipation for bedtime, the body cools about a half degree and increases blood flow to the skin. You can also help replenish your skin's moisture by snacking on water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelon, and apples. While you sleep. your skin will hydrate from the inside out and release powerful free-radical fighting antioxidants.
