We’re constantly reminded of the importance of getting at least seven hours of sleep per night. However, many struggle to meet this recommendation due to stress-related insomnia or external disturbances.
Recently, sleep technology company Simba used artificial intelligence to analyze the effects of sleep deprivation on the body. The findings reveal troubling consequences, prompting experts to warn about the serious impact of insufficient rest.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Simba conducted a survey of 2,175 UK adults, gathering data on their sleep habits, physical health, and appearance. This information was processed through an AI system, which visually demonstrated the effects of sleeping more or less than seven hours per night.
“A lack of sleep doesn’t just leave you tired — it shows up all over your body,” said Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of Simba’s charity partner, The Sleep Charity.
“When you’re sleep-deprived, cortisol levels — the stress hormone — rise, exacerbating inflammatory skin conditions, worsening conditions like eczema and psoriasis, leading to irritation, redness, and itching,” explained Artis.
Various Skin Problems
One of the most visible signs of sleep deprivation is its effect on the skin. “When sleep is compromised, reduced blood flow causes the skin to appear sallow and lack vibrancy, stripping it of its natural glow and vitality,” said Artis.
Among those who reported insufficient sleep:
- 24% experienced increased skin sensitivity
- 16% suffered from eczema
- 7% had psoriasis
- 10% noticed a dull complexion
“At night, the skin works overtime to regenerate and repair itself,” Artis added. “During rest, blood flow increases, supporting its natural repair processes and promoting a healthy, radiant complexion.”
Brittle Nails
Chronic sleep deprivation may also affect nail health. The study found that 15% of those who lacked adequate sleep reported brittle nails. Experts suggest that poor rest may disrupt the body’s natural repair processes, weakening nail strength over time.
