You Look Tired...

Part of our Healthy Habits Series

Read the article reviewing the study here.
Sleep deprivation is a merely another symptom of a fast-paced on-go-life. Many of us wish we had a couple of extra hours of Z’s during the night. As much as we try to convince others that everything in our lives is wonderful, our face may convey another story. Sleep deprivation is not something that can easily be hidden away from others; a recent study showed that people were able to associate certain characteristics in faces with sleep deprivation. Participants picked out certain features in photos of sleep deprived individuals, and found certain commonalities. Features such as swollen eyes, low hanging eye lids, droopy corners of the mouth, and paler skin were all related to sleep deprivation in the photographed faces.  

 What can we take away from this study? Humans are experts at examining the faces of other humans. As intensely social creatures, we pay close attention to others’ facial expressions and facial features. If we are tired or sleep deprived, chances are that everyone else can see it. No amount of makeup can keep your eyelids from sagging, or your mouth from drooping, but some skincare products can improve skin dullness. If you are going to be in a situation, such as a job interview, that requires that you be at your best, depriving yourself from sleep will not help. In this study, individuals also related sleepiness with sadness and, in some cases, incompetence. Sleep deprivation can also cause a wide array of other health problems, so make sure you get the proper sleep, not only for your face, but for your health. 

Our Recommendation: Try to get more sleep, as hard as it may be. In the meantime, our nightly renewal or brighten me cream can help even out some of the dark circles and wrinkles associated with sleep deprivation. To incorporate more relaxation into your daily routine why not try a back treatment or a relaxing Euro Facial? 

 This article is from our Healthy Habits topic. Every week, for one month, we post articles to help cultivate healthier skin and a healthier you.