[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. Sleep postures such as side-sleeping or lying face-down place prolonged pressure on the face, increasing the risk of wrinkles, 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 are compressed against the pillow, promoting wrinkle formation. 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 time, consistent pressure from this posture may contribute to subtle facial asymmetry.

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. Repeated compression on one side may gradually affect facial symmetry.

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 contributing to discomfort and fine lines in the neck area. Choosing a pillow suited to your body’s contours is vital for proper alignment and minimizing skin stress.

Daily habits, including sleep posture, can gradually influence your facial appearance. 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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