Have you ever jumped out of bed and noticed some weird lines on your face? They weren’t there when you went to sleep, right? These are called sleep wrinkles, and they can be pretty pesky. We all know that getting a good night’s sleep is super important for feeling good, but did you know that how you sleep can also change how your skin looks?

Does my Sleeping Position Matter?

Guess what? It sure does! There are 4 basic sleep positions and they can affect not just your skin, but also your overall health.

• Sleeping on your back: This is often thought to be the best way to sleep. It lets your head, neck, and spine rest straight, which means less chance of waking up with aches. Back sleepers also have less chance of getting wrinkles because your face isn’t squished against the pillow. But, it can make snoring and sleep apnea worse. If you have these problems, try sleeping on your side.
• Side sleeping: This can be a great way to sleep for many people, especially those who snore or have sleep apnea. Plus, pregnant ladies can feel better from heartburn by sleeping on their left side. But, be careful, as side sleeping can cause facial wrinkles and numbness in your arm.
• Sleeping on your stomach: This isn’t the best way to sleep because it can cause neck and back pain. It can also cause wrinkles and, for women, sagging breasts over time. On the plus side, it can help with snoring and some cases of sleep apnea.
• The fetal position: This is when you sleep on your side, but with your legs curled up towards your chest. It feels cozy and safe, but too much curling can make it hard to breathe and cause discomfort. Also, it can lead to wrinkles and sagging breasts. To avoid this, try not to curl up too tight.

Will Sleeping On My Side Change the Shape of My Face?

Sleeping on your side or stomach may potentially impact the shape of your face, although there isn’t a definite conclusion on this matter. According to Dr. Rosmy Barrios, a medical advisor, there is some evidence suggesting that the pressure exerted by the weight of your head and face can stretch the skin and soft tissues over time, potentially leading to facial asymmetry or changes in facial contours. However, experts assure that these changes are not life-threatening and do not affect the structure of your bones, such as cheekbones. Dr. Po-Chang Hsu, a medical content expert, emphasizes that it is unlikely for side-sleeping to cause serious changes or deformation in your bone structure.

What Can I Do If I Sleep on My Side Best?

Side sleeping has its drawbacks, but it also comes with several benefits. These include relief from back pain, a reduced risk of sleep apnea and snoring, and overall comfort. It’s important to note that we can’t always control how we sleep, so it’s understandable if you stick with your usual position. 

However, experts suggest that you can still sleep on your side while taking care of your face and skin. According to Dr. Wu, if you’re a side sleeper, it’s important to wash your pillowcase frequently. Additionally, consider switching to a silk pillowcase instead of a cotton one. Dr. Wu explains that a silk pillowcase can minimize friction and pulling that a regular pillowcase may cause. Above all, Dr. Wu emphasizes that getting enough sleep is crucial for your skin, regardless of your preferred sleeping position. So, prioritize your shut-eye to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

What Are Some Other Things I Can Do To Combat Sleep Wrinkles?

If you’re worried about sleep wrinkles, here are some things you can do:

• Use a neck pillow or body pillow to fill in the space between your neck and shoulder.
• Try an anti-aging pillow designed to support your head and keep you on your back.
• Switch to a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.
• Drink plenty of water during the day to keep your skin hydrated.

Bottom Line

Sleeping on your side or stomach can affect your skin, leading to temporary lines and wrinkles that may become more prominent over time. But, don’t fret! Just wash your pillowcase regularly, consider using a silk one, and keep your skin moisturized. And remember, a good night’s sleep is the best thing for you and your skin!