Acne is a skin condition that affects about 60 million Americans, according to the Acne Resource Center. Acne forms when pores become clogged with bacteria, dead skin cells and oil. While it has been established that certain medications can affect sleep, researchers in recent years have been looking into links between acne, depression, sleep problems, anxiety and more.
Insomnia
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute explains that insomnia is a condition characterized by having difficulty falling or staying asleep. It can be a chronic condition that lasts at least three nights a week for more than a month, or can occur once in a while. According to Mark A. Deuber, MD, a board certified plastic surgeon, everyone needs at least eight hours of sleep. MayoClinic.com reports that lack of sleep can affect work performance, slow reaction time, cause depression or anxiety and even cause weight gain and damage the immune system. According to Dr. Deuber, lack of sleep can take a toll on your complexion as well.
Acne Medications and Sleep
Certain medications have side effects that can get between you and a good night's sleep. For instance, in 1988, the "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology" published a review by Michael Bigby, MD, indicating that isotretinoin, closely related to vitamin A, causes adverse reactions involving the central nervous system. The most commonly reported reaction was severe headaches. Due in part to this review and recent studies, isotretinoin now comes with warnings indicating that the drug can cause depression, trouble concentrating, sleep problems and other dangerous side effects.
Acne and Psychiatric Disorders
DermNet NZ, the official website for the New Zealand Dermatological Society, reports that acne can have profound and significantly disabling social and psychological effects. People who suffer from acne, whether it's mild or severe, can experience lethargy and wakefulness. A 2009 study published by BMC Public Health by Jon A. Halvorsen theorizes that mental distress associated with acne also could worsen your complexion.
Preventing Acne
The best way to prevent acne, according to KidsHealth, is by keeping your skin clean by washing off excess surface oils, bacteria and dead skin cells. Avoid using products that can clog your pores and wash after you sweat. A medication like benzoyl peroxide, available over the counter, also can prevent breakouts by killing the bacteria that causes acne. Benzoyl peroxide is safe to use and does not cause fatigue or disrupt sleep.
How to Sleep Better
To improve your chances of getting a better night's sleep, MayoClinic.com recommends establishing a reliable sleep/wake schedule by going to sleep and waking up the same time every day. Avoid eating and drinking before bed. Exercise regularly and make your bedroom cool, dark, quiet and comfortable. If your anxiety gets between you and sleep, make an appointment with your doctor to come up with ways you can treat your acne as well as your sleep issues.
References
- Acne Resource Center: Statistics
- The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: Sleep Insomnia
- Mark A. Deuber, MD: How Lack of Sleep Can Affect Your Appearance
- Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology: Adverse Reactions to Isotretinoin
- Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin: Acne, Isotretinoin and Depression
