It’s often the small, unnoticed routines that shape how we look over time. From the way you rest at night to habits you barely think about, these patterns can leave subtle marks that only become visible years later.
Many people invest in skincare products hoping to slow ageing. But according to medical experts, what happens while you sleep may play a surprisingly important role.
A nightly pressure
According to a report by LADbible, NHS doctor Dr Raj Arora has highlighted how a common sleeping position could contribute to faster visible ageing.
Sleeping on your side places continuous pressure on the same areas of the face for hours.
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This repeated contact with a pillow creates friction that can gradually form lines in the skin. Over time, these marks can deepen, especially if the same position is repeated night after night.
Uneven ageing signs
As reported by LADbible, Dr Arora also points out that consistently favouring one side may lead to uneven ageing across the face.
Skin naturally loses elasticity as people get older, making it harder for it to recover from repeated compression. This can result in one side developing more pronounced lines than the other.
Sleep neurologist Rachel Salas has also noted in broader sleep research that lying on your back is generally considered the most protective position for the skin, as it avoids direct facial pressure.
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Simple daily fixes
Experts referenced in the LADbible report suggest that small, consistent adjustments can help reduce these effects over time:
- Switching to silk or satin pillowcases to minimise friction
- Wearing SPF daily to protect against UV-related ageing
- Drinking enough water to support skin elasticity
- Avoiding nicotine, which can reduce blood flow to the skin
While ageing is inevitable, these everyday habits may influence how quickly visible signs appear.
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