Research reveals that a spike in stress levels can wreak havoc on the skin and waistline, while a study at Duke University in the US found that poor sleep is associated with higher stress levels and a greater risk of heart disease and diabetes.
So how can improved sleep be one of your best skin and body treatments?
1 Getting eight hours can help you look younger. While you sleep, your body releases the anti-ageing hormone melatonin and human growth hormone, which increases the activity of the main antioxidant enzymes that protect cells — and skin — against free-radical damage.
2 Good sleep can boost your sense of wellbeing. A good night’s sleep helps your brain to form new pathways, which allows you to learn and remember information, enhances your problem- solving skills and kick-starts creativity. Not enough sleep, however, can lead to psychological stress, which can trigger the release of neuropeptides that can affect your complexion by increasing the production of excess sebum and inflammatory chemicals called cytokines, both of which can lead to acne.
3 Sleep deficiency can trigger skin conditions. A lack of sleep leaves you looking tired and prone to to dark circles and can also weaken your immune system, which may trigger skin disorders such as eczema. A bad night’s sleep also increases the production of the stress hormone cortisol, which blocks the formation of collagen, the main protein that keeps skin tight and toned. High levels of cortisol also affect immune cells in the epidermis, which can weaken the skin’s defences against UV light, pollutants and infections.
4 Resting can improve the look of your skin. According to the British Association of Dermatologists, a state of “relaxed wakefulness” — ie meditation or any peaceful activity — can produce similar benefits to those from sleep.
5 Sleep affects weight-controlling hormones. Leptin and ghrelin work together to control appetite. Ghrelin, which is produced in the gut, stimulates appetite; leptin, produced in fat cells, sends a signal to the brain when you’re full. Lack of sleep depletes leptin levels, which means you don’t feel as satisfied after you eat. Lack of sleep also causes ghrelin levels to rise, meaning your appetite is stimulated, so you crave more food.
6 Products are absorbed more easily at night. Research shows that your body’s blood flow increases at night, which increases the area of absorption for moisture and nutrients, too.
