Skin aging linked with sleep loss
24-07-2013
The negative health effects of sleep deprivation have been long known, with heart disease and diabetes among the commonly associated conditions, however premature skin aging has now been added to that list, following research in the US. A study at the University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland found that the ability of skin in combating the effects of sun exposure and environmental toxins was reduced through chronic sleep deprivation, resulting in reduced elasticity, fine lines and uneven pigmentation.
Sixty women aged between 30 and 49 took part in the research – commissioned by Estee Lauder – with their sleep and skin quality assessed over a week long period. Half of the participants were considered to be poor sleepers.
"Our study is the first to conclusively demonstrate that inadequate sleep is correlated with reduced skin health and accelerates skin aging," said researcher Dr. Elma Baron. "While chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to medical problems such as obesity, diabetes, cancer and immune deficiency, its effects on skin function have previously been unknown."
The study was presented at the International Investigative Dermatology Meeting in Scotland.
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