Sleep

How Does it Show Up on your Skin?

Sleep. That one word can be so peaceful to some and such a source of stress to others.  I have been extremely blessed to always sleep well, but still, I work at it. Years ago, I did a book review of a book called “Sleep Smarter“.  I have since implemented many of those tips, and it has helped me wake up more refreshed over the years.  So, what does all of this have to do with dermatology? 

Many skin disorders, particularly those with itching, interfere with sleep.  Plus, lack of sleep makes symptoms of skin disorders more severe.  Itching often is much worse at night.  Let’s not forget our beauty sleep! 

Why is itching so much worse in the evening and at night?  Here’s my explanation:  Itching is a sensation that the brain interprets, just like pain.  During the day, there are lots of things distracting our brains.  At night, everything gets quieter in our environment, but those signals insider our head get louder, disrupting sleep.  A more scientific suggestion is that with our natural circadian rhythm, cortisol levels drop in the evening and inflammatory skin problems flare because of the lack of cortisol. 

There are a number of studies relating to sleep in dermatology, but the most often discussed are: 

• Sleep apnea is 2-4 times more common in psoriasis patients than the general population. 
• Sleep disorders play an important role in the multidisciplinary care of kids with eczema. 
• Poor sleep does contribute to an aged appearance of the skin.  Beauty sleep is real.   

---

Follow us on social media this week for tips and articles about sleep and dermatology, and if you’re a reader check out “Sleep Smarter”.   

Does someone you care about have both skin problems and sleep disturbances?  Share this article and get them on their way to a good night’s sleep.