Are wrinkles inevitable? How much does sleep matter?
Sufficient sleep is often touted as being essential to health and wellbeing, but does it also affect our skin?
Did you know that insufficient sleep can cause the following problems:
- Reduced moisture levels and lower PH levels which can leave your skin looking dull and lacklustre
- Increased redness and tendency to breakouts
- Dilated blood vessels leading to dark circles.
Factors affecting sleep
Given the above, it really does make sense to look at our sleep hygiene. Below are a few things to be aware of:
- Drinking alcohol within 90 minutes of falling asleep can mean that we never enter REM sleep. REM (Rapid Eye Movement) Sleep is when cell regeneration occurs so without it, your skin can start to look thin and crepey.
- Using devices at bedtime means that you are being exposed to Blue Light, similar to that produced by the sun. This has the effect of tricking your body into believing it’s daytime and hence inhibits sleep.
So, to ensure you can enjoy your full 8 hours, turn off those iPads and enjoy a soothing cup of herbal tea! If cutting out the booze doesn’t sound particularly realistic over the Christmas holidays, try and intersperse your party nights with alcohol-free evenings.
Does sleeping on your back avoid wrinkles?
I am often asked about the truth of sleeping on your back to avoid wrinkles. I am afraid to say that the rumours are true.
Sheets, particularly low thread count cotton, can pull on your skin contributing to fine lines and wrinkles. Sleeping on either your stomach or your sides also means that there is constant pressure on your face which will eventually cause sleep lines.
Do silk pillows have anti-aging benefits?
Apparently, it is possible to “train” yourself to sleep on your back but if, like me, you’ve never mastered the art, you might prefer the silk pillowcase solution.
Originally something of a cynic when it came to the anti-aging benefits of silk pillowcases, I am now a regular user and a complete convert. Silk pillowcases really do help to prevent fine lines and wrinkles. They also keep the skin hydrated and prevent frizzy hair – so what are you waiting for?
For further information on the best pillowcases, why not take a look at this article in the Independent, “Five best anti-wrinkle silk pillowcases”.
Still need a little help to revitalise your skin?
We all know that in the real world, with the pressures of work and family, and whatever our best intentions, it can sometimes be a real challenge to get enough sleep. So, if you feel that your skin could do with a little extra assistance, why not book a consultation at our Marlow clinic.
iS Clinical GeneXC Serum
We are also delighted to announce that we are now stocking iS Clinical’s latest skincare innovation, GeneXC SERUM. The official product launch will be in January 2020 but we have managed to secure some pre-launch stock.
This is genuinely a ground-breaking serum with clinical trials showing that it supports gene activation to enhance skin cells’ ability to respond to stress, enhance cell renewal, brighten the skin, and improve overall skin function.
Our genes are the command centres of every skin cell. Studies prove that GeneXC speaks to our genes, which, in turn, direct skin cells in positive ways to improve skin health, vitality and beauty. With its preventative, regenerative and protective benefits, it works from the inside out as well as the outside in, supporting our skin cells to return to youth.
I am genuinely excited about this product and its benefits. I have been using it for three days and my skin already feels smoother and looks brighter. It will undoubtedly help to enhance the effect or our treatments.
Look out for our new year blog, in which one of our patients will share her experience of using the serum.
To find out more about our innovative treatments and products visit our website or book an appointment on 01628 303020.
