[Hinews] [Physician's Column] By Junsu Park, MD, Plusmi Dermatology Clinic

The position you sleep in may seem trivial, but it can profoundly influence your skin’s health and appearance over time. Various sleep postures, such as side-sleeping or lying face-down, apply sustained pressure to the face, fostering wrinkles, skin irritation, and even facial asymmetry. Recognizing the effects of your sleep posture is crucial for preserving youthful, healthy skin.

Sleeping face-down, known as the prone position, is among the most harmful for your skin. In this posture, the forehead, periorbital area, and nasolabial folds press directly against the pillow, creating conditions ripe for wrinkle development. The neck is also prone to fine lines in this position. Additionally, pillows can accumulate bacteria and dust, heightening the risk of skin irritation or acne. Over the long term, this posture may subtly alter facial bone structure, potentially leading to asymmetry or minor deformities.

Junsu Park, MD, Plusmi Dermatology Clinic
Junsu Park, MD, Plusmi Dermatology Clinic

Side-sleeping, especially in a curled-up position, carries similar risks. When one side of the face is consistently compressed against a pillow, wrinkles are more likely to form around the eyes, jawline, and nasolabial folds. This repeated pressure can also disrupt facial symmetry, as one side bears disproportionate contact.

What, then, is the best sleep position for preventing wrinkles? The answer lies in sleeping on your back, or the supine position. This posture minimizes facial contact with the pillow, significantly reducing external pressure on the skin. However, pillow selection is equally critical. A pillow that is too high or too low can strain the neck, potentially causing neck wrinkles. Choosing a pillow suited to your body’s contours is vital for proper alignment and minimizing skin stress.

Small habits can reshape your facial appearance over time. Sleep is a key period for skin regeneration, making it essential to adopt a posture that limits irritation and pressure. To avoid premature wrinkles, consider reassessing your sleep position tonight.

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