Sleep is essential for the production of collagen, which is necessary for healthy and radiant skin. However, sleeping incorrectly can negatively impact the skin, leading to wrinkles and other skin problems. Dr. Munir Soumgie explains that friction between the face and the pillow can damage the outer layer known as the skin barrier. This results in excessive water loss and dryness, prompting the glands to respond by producing more oil. Excess oil can lead to the accumulation of bacteria and dirt, thus clogging pores and causing breakouts. The solution lies in using retinol—or bakuchiol, a natural alternative—at night, which will help retain moisture, address signs of aging, and target acne at the same time.
Additionally, sleeping on one side all night can affect the skin on the cheeks, potentially disrupting blood supply to the fat in the cheeks and causing damage to the underlying layers. A remedy for this issue is to perform facial massage upon waking to stimulate blood circulation. The damage is not limited to the facial skin; sleeping can also cause chest wrinkles. Over time, pulling the skin can lead to the formation of creases and wrinkles due to weakened muscles and relaxed skin. One way to address this problem is by using a specific pillow that distributes weight evenly.
You can also stimulate collagen production through microneedling with a skin roller, which tricks the body into thinking it has sustained an injury, encouraging the natural healing process. Deep lines from facial pressure on the pillow may also appear, leading to stretched ligaments, weakened muscles, and enhanced grooves in the skin. The best solution is to become accustomed to different sleeping positions, such as sleeping on your back, according to the British newspaper The Sun.
