{"id":1045,"date":"2016-06-15T15:01:51","date_gmt":"2016-06-15T15:01:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.acquablumedicalspa.com\/blog\/\/?p=1045"},"modified":"2016-06-15T15:01:51","modified_gmt":"2016-06-15T15:01:51","slug":"truth-beauty-rest-really-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.acquablumedicalspa.com\/blog\/truth-beauty-rest-really-work\/","title":{"rendered":"The Truth about Beauty Rest: Does It Really Work?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Have you ever wondered if there\u2019s actually any truth behind the age-old advice to \u201cget your beauty rest\u201d? Well, if you think that beauty sleep is just for fairy tales, think again. As it turns out, our bodies are hard at work burning the midnight oil, repairing all sorts of things as we sleep. And yes, our skin is one of those overnight repair jobs, making beauty rest a real phenomenon. <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

So just how does it work? Getting a good night\u2019s sleep can come along with a whole host of skin benefits, including these four biggies.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Boosts Collagen Production<\/span><\/h3>\n

During the third and fourth stages of deep sleep, your body actually increases its production of collagen, the protein in our connective tissue that\u2019s responsible for our skin\u2019s firmness and structure. With a boost of collagen, your skin can begin to repair and heal itself, reducing lines, wrinkles and other imperfections, thus having the effect of waking up looking refreshed, bright, and even younger. <\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the other hand, if you don\u2019t sleep well, your body won\u2019t trigger this extra collagen boost, which is why a poor night\u2019s sleep can make you wake up looking \u00a0tired, groggy, and lackluster the next morning. (<\/span>Medical Hypotheses<\/span><\/i><\/a>)<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Increases Blood Circulation<\/span><\/h3>\n

As you sleep, your body also begins to cool down, which helps to increase your blood circulation, which is not only healthy for your skin but also gives it that bright, rosy glow. Not getting enough sleep can decrease the blood flow to your skin, having the opposite effect.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Reduces Under Eye Circles<\/span><\/h3>\n

Puffy, dark eyes are one of the most common characteristics of sleep deprivation. When your body does get a good, deep sleep, it reduces the inflammation that causes under eye circles. But when you don\u2019t get adequate sleep, your blood vessels become dilated, creating the dark, puffy appearance under your eyes. <\/span><\/p>\n

4. Ups Your Antioxidant Count<\/span><\/h3>\n

Don\u2019t be afraid of the dark when it comes to sleep, because your body\u2019s natural repair system actually thrives in the dark. In fact, some healing mechanisms won\u2019t even activate unless your body senses darkness. This is the case for melatonin, a key hormonal ingredient to your nighttime repair routine. But not only does melatonin help to repair your skin, much like collagen, studies have found that it may also act as an antioxidant, preventing the harmful oxidation of other molecules in your body. (<\/span>HHS Public Access<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Maximize Your Skin Care Routine<\/span><\/h3>\n

Although your body can work wonders on its own with the right amount (and quality) of sleep, there are a few simple things you can do to help your natural skin repair process. Our Pittsburgh dermatologist suggests trying these professional skin care tips:<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n