QQ: Does Sleeping on Your Stomach Cause Wrinkles?

There are a lot of weird ways your skin can develop wrinkles, and one of them has to do with what kind of sleeper you are. According to New York City-based dermatologist Patricia Wexler, M.D., stomach sleepers are more prone to develop certain fine lines than people who sleep on their sides or back. Keep reading to find out more about this unexpected cause of wrinkles, including how to prevent it (because changing your favorite sleeping position isn’t always possible).

Can Stomach Sleeping Cause Wrinkles?

“When sleeping on your belly, there is constant pressure on your face and body, therefore, creating unwanted sleep lines,” Dr. Wexler explains. This can be exacerbated by certain fabrics of pillowcases and sheets. “Fabrics containing higher friction forces are more likely to create and mold wrinkles and fine lines,” she adds.

What Types of Wrinkles Might Be Caused by Sleeping on Your Stomach?

Wrinkles and fine lines on the cheeks and around the lips are the most prominent type that emerges from sleeping on your stomach. “For example, when you wake up after sleeping that way, a lot of times there are vertical lines and sleep marks on your face, which are caused by the long duration and pressure of the folds and creases on your pillowcase,” says Dr. Wexler. 

How to Avoid Overnight Wrinkles

To help prevent overnight wrinkles, Dr. Wexler suggests trying to sleep in alternative positions, specifically on your back. We know how hard that directive is, though, so luckily she has a few other suggestions: “I would also recommend changing your pillowcase to either a silk or satin fabric. These fabrics make it so that your face can glide on the pillow when you’re moving around, rather than create the folds and friction of other types of material.” We love our Slip Silk Pillowcases if you need a recommendation! 

Chronic stomach sleepers should also carefully consider their topical, overnight skin-care products to help fight premature signs of aging. “Look for products that include hyaluronic acid, peptides or retinoids, which are great to use while you’re sleeping because they help fight aging lines and wrinkles.” We like theL’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum With Pure Retinol and theGlow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum for starters.

Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn

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