Are you continually in search of healthy and glowing skin? Of course, you can include topical vitamin C and similar brightening actives in your skincare regimen… but there are other *creative* ways to achieve a lit-from-within complexion. Perhaps the most fun of all: doing a regular activity before bed.
Yes, Sex Glow is totally legit, expert-vetted, and scientifically backed. Better yet, the benefits of sex and orgasm will not only translate to your complexion but also your mood, relationship satisfaction, and more. Read on to find out why having more sex could be the brilliant gift that keeps on giving.
The study on sexual radiance
In most cases, sex can make you feel really good… and researchers have tried to quantify only as Well, it may be gathering data from studies on sexual activity among newlyweds. Over the course of two weeks, more than 200 couples were asked to report their daily sexual activities and sexual satisfaction, as well as their initial marital satisfaction. They also measured their marital satisfaction four to six months later.
The results? Sexual satisfaction remained strong for a full 48 hours after copulating. (Note: If you’re struggling with Sunday fears or Monday blues, consider this your cue to get busy in the bedroom once the weekend arrives.) Additionally, couples who felt a stronger glow—that is, greater satisfaction and bonding—after sex felt happier in their marriages both at baseline and in follow-up months.
All things considered, this study 2017 In the diary psychological science suggests sex could put more pep in your step and Keep some enthusiasm in your relationship over time. And it turns out that the same hormonal changes that drive these benefits could also equate to improvements in your skin.
3 Reasons Why Postcoital Glow Benefits Your Skin
Let’s discuss what a sexual glow is when it comes to your skin. “Postcoital glow is characterized by radiant or glowing skin seen after sexual activity. It can last up to 48 hours after sex,” shares the New York board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. Michele Green, MD. “In addition to visible, radiant 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 increases blood flow
ICYMI, sex can count as a light to moderate cardiovascular training, which is good news for your skin and your overall well-being. “Sex is considered a form of physical exercise because it increases heart rate and blood flow,” explains Dr. Green. “With increased blood flow, nutrients and oxygen are delivered more quickly to cells throughout the body,” which can result in a brighter, fresher, and more rejuvenated complexion. (If he’s ever noticed that his skin looks better after working out, the same idea is at play.)
2. Estrogen works its magic to improve skin
While you may be most familiar with estrogen when it comes to other aspects of sexual (and menstrual) health, the hormone also offers a variety of skin benefits. “Estrogen levels increase during sexual stimulation,” says Dr. Green. (side note: for better hormonal balance, check out HUM’s Hormone Balance supplement).
The dermatologist says estrogen is responsible for countless aspects of skin health, including:
- Regulate fat production for clear and balanced skin.
- Maintain the skin’s barrier function.
- It modulates inflammation, thus offering defense against acne, rosacea and eczema.
- Prevent the decrease in collagen and elastin, thus helping to maintain the thickness and firmness of the skin.
As such, we can see that the increase in estrogen from sexual activity is powerful in promoting many markers of skin health. (Instead, investigation shows that a lack of estrogen, including the significant drop that occurs after menopause, accelerates undesirable changes in the skin such as dryness, wrinkles and difficulty healing wounds).
3. Oxytocin calms and eliminates 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 the feel-good heart-eyes emoji vibes. . “Oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone,’ is released during orgasm, reducing stress levels and inflammation.” says Dr. Green. Naturally, this release can promote healthier, more radiant skin from stress and inflammation. They interfere with the clarity, integrity and moisture of the skin.. Additionally, like estrogen, oxytocin can help the production of collagen and elastin to Pro-aging and healing benefits. (With these points in mind, feel free to go for cuddling, intercourse, or both… if not for love, at least win for visible skin.)
“Lower cortisol levels [also known as the ‘stress hormone’] “can cause less breakdown of collagen and elastin, improving skin thickness and elasticity,” adds Dr. Green.
Final Thoughts on Sexual Radiance and Skin Health
Based on the sexual glow study (which investigated newlywed couples) and the effects of oxytocin on romantic bonding, you may wonder if you need to be booed to reach the full potential of postcoital glow and 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. Additionally, “it can help repair the skin barrier and improve microcirculation, or the circulation of blood in small blood vessels,” he continues. “Increased microcirculation promotes proper skin function, supplying necessary nutrients and oxygen to skin cells.” As a behavioral neuroscience researcher and certified sex therapist. Nan Wise, PhD, which she previously shared in a deep dive on orgasms and brain activity, dopamine is what she lovingly calls “the slut neurotransmitter” and it’s far from just limited to love. That said, lust can also act to strengthen the skin barrier, stimulate circulation, and nourish cells.
Next, serotonin is not only responsible for helping regulate 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 throughout the body, so antioxidants (including vitamin C serum, deliciously nutritious foods and drinks rich in antioxidants, and natural chemicals like serotonin) can work wonders in maintaining the complexion, the state mood and general health in optimal conditions. condition.
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The post Sex AfterGlow: Does it really exist? first appeared on the HUM nutrition blog.
