Are you constantly looking for healthy, glowing skin? Of course, you could include topical vitamin C and similar active brighteners in your skincare regimen… but there are other *creative* ways to achieve a glow-from-within complexion. Perhaps the most fun of the bunch: regular bedtime activity.
Yes, the sex glow is completely legal, peer-reviewed and scientifically backed. Even better, the benefits of sex and orgasm will not only translate to your skin but also to your mood, relationship satisfaction and more. Read on to find out why having more sex could be the gift that makes you glow.
The Sex Afterglow Study
In most cases, sex can make you feel really good… and researchers tried to quantify exactly how good might be by pooling data from studies on sexual activity among newlyweds. Over the course of two weeks, 200+ couples were asked to report their daily sexual activities and sexual satisfaction, as well as their basic marital satisfaction. They also measured their marital satisfaction four to six months later.
Results? Sexual satisfaction remained strong for 48 hours after copulation. (Note: If you’re struggling with Sunday dreads or Monday blues, consider this your cue to get busy in the bedroom once the weekend rolls around.) What’s more, couples who felt a stronger glow—that is, more satisfaction and bonding after sex — felt happier in their marriages both initially and in the months afterward.
All things considered, this 2017 study in the magazine Psychological Science suggests that sex could put more of a spring in your step and keep some fun in your relationship over time. And it turns out that the same hormonal changes that drive these perks could also equate to skin wins.
3 Reasons Why Post-Sex Glow Benefits Your Skin
Let’s unpack what the sex glow is when it comes to your skin. “Post-coital glow is characterized by shiny or shiny skin that appears after sexual activity. It can last up to 48 hours after sex,” says the NYC board-certified dermatologist. Michele Green, MD. “In addition to visible, glowing skin, regular sexual activity can also lead to healthier skin overall.”
Here’s a closer look at why sex is so good for your skin:
1. Sexual activity enhances blood flow
ICYMI, sex can count as a mild to moderate cardiovascular training, which is good news for your skin and overall well-being. “Sex is considered a form of physical exercise as it increases heart rate and blood flow,” explains Dr. Green. “With increased blood flow, nutrients and oxygen are distributed to cells throughout the body more quickly,” which can result in brighter, fresher, more revitalized skin. (If you’ve ever noticed that your skin looks better after exercise, the same idea is at play.)
2. Estrogen does its skin-enhancing magic
While you may be more familiar with estrogen as it relates to other aspects of sexual (and menstrual) health, the hormone also offers a variety of benefits for your skin. “Estrogen levels rise during sexual arousal,” says Dr. Green. (side note: for better hormone balance, check out HUM’s Hormone Balance supplement.)
The dermatologist says that estrogen is responsible for countless aspects of skin health, including:
- Regulates oil production for clean, balanced skin
- Maintenance of skin barrier function
- Regulates inflammation, thus offering defense against acne, rosacea and eczema
- Prevents the reduction of collagen and elastin, thus helping to maintain skin thickness and firmness
Therefore, we can see that the enhancement of estrogen from sexual activity is powerful in promoting many indicators of skin health. (Vice versa, research shows that a lack of estrogen—including the steep drop that occurs after menopause—accelerates unwanted skin changes such as dryness, wrinkles, and difficulty healing wounds.)
3. Oxytocin soothes and relieves stress
If you feel closer to your partner after getting busy in the sheets—but also through innocent activities like holding hands—you can credit oxytocin for those happy heart-eye emoji vibes. “Oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone’, is released during an orgasm, reducing stress levels and inflammation.” says Dr. Green. Naturally, this release can promote healthier, brighter skin from stress and inflammation they stand in the way of skin clarity, integrity and moisture. Additionally, similar to estrogen, oxytocin can aid in the production of collagen and elastin anti-aging, anti-healing benefits. (With these points in mind, feel free to engage in cuddling, sex, or both… if not for love, then at least exposed skin wins.)
“Lower cortisol levels [also known as the ‘stress hormone’] can lead to less breakdown of collagen and elastin, improving skin thickness and elasticity,” adds Dr. Green.
Final thoughts on sexiness and skin health
Based on the sexual glow study (which looked at newly married couples) and the effects of oxytocin on pigeon bonding, you may be wondering if you need to be snubbed to achieve the full potential of lust and post-coital satisfaction.
“Being in love and being loved releases oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin into your system,” shares Dr. Green. Dopamine is most often associated with reward, motivation and reinforcement. In addition, “it can help restore the skin barrier and improve microcirculation, or blood flow in the small blood vessels,” he continues. “Increased microcirculation supports proper skin function, providing essential nutrients and oxygen to skin cells.” As a behavioral neuroscience researcher and certified sex therapist Nan Wise, PhD, who previously shared a deep dive into orgasms and brain activity, dopamine is what he affectionately considers “the naughty neurotransmitter,” and it’s not just limited to love. That said, lust can also work to strengthen the skin barrier, boost circulation and nourish your cells.
Next, serotonin is not only responsible for regulating mood and supporting mental health. “Serotonin is a natural antioxidant that can help fight free radicals and oxidative stress in the body,” adds Dr. Green. Oxidative stress is one of the main drivers of accelerated aging throughout the skin and the entire body, so antioxidants—including your vitamin C serum, delicious nutrient-dense antioxidant-rich foods and drinks, and natural chemicals like serotonin—can all work wonders to maintain skin, your mood and overall health at peak condition.
Take the HUM quiz
The post Sex AfterGlow: Is it really a thing? appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.
