The appearance of wrinkles while sleeping depends on your sleeping position. In youth, these wrinkles are temporary and quickly smooth out. However, as we age, our skin loses its elasticity, and such wrinkles can gradually form an unwanted pattern on the face.
Is it possible to minimize this process? Researchers from the University of Queensland (Australia) believe it is entirely feasible. Here’s what they had to say about it.
Sleeping on Your Side
Human skin undergoes deformation for various reasons. These include natural aging, sun exposure, smoking, poor hydration, the habit of making facial expressions (like pouting, frowning, squinting, etc.), and the position you sleep in.
When you sleep on your side or stomach, the skin on your face is compressed much more than when you sleep on your back. Gravity presses your face against the pillow, causing the skin to deform.
Fortunately, you can reduce the impact of external forces that make our faces look older by morning. First and foremost, try sleeping on your back or frequently changing positions.
The time spent in each sleeping position, the pressure on each area of the face, and the surface area of skin in contact with the pillow also influence the nature and speed of wrinkle formation during sleep.
Skin health experts assert that those who prefer sleeping exclusively on one side tend to have a flatter face on that side and more pronounced sleep lines.
Can Skincare Help Prevent Wrinkles While Sleeping?
Collagen and elastin are the two main components of the dermis—the inner layer of the skin. They form its structure and maintain elasticity.
Therefore, incorporating collagen into your daily skincare routine can help prevent wrinkles, according to Science Alert.
Don’t forget about hyaluronic acid: this natural substance is found in the human body. It helps keep collagen and elastin in our skin in the right configuration. Additionally, it stimulates collagen production and provides hydration, which also slows down wrinkle formation. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most common active ingredients in creams, gels, and lotions for skincare.
Should You Invest in Silk Pillowcases?
Silk pillowcases help prevent wrinkles by allowing the skin to glide more easily. With this type of bedding, the skin avoids friction and pressure on one area of the face. So, if possible, invest in silk sheets and pillows.
Research has also shown that specialized pillows designed to reduce mechanical stress during sleep can help prevent skin deformation.
To keep your skin looking fresh and smooth for as long as possible, it’s essential to maintain healthy habits. This includes quitting smoking, staying well-hydrated, eating a balanced diet (with plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, healthy fats, and fermented foods), and regularly using sunscreen.