Lines or markings on your face and upper body after waking up, often called "sleep wrinkles," may not solely be the fault of your pillowcase. Experts suggest these temporary creases can be subtle indicators of your overall health.
One potential cause is fluid shifts within the body. Dr. Christopher Allen, a sleep science advisor, explained that slight overnight fluid changes can lead to puffier skin, making lines more prominent. Conditions such as sleep apnea, heart failure, kidney disease, certain liver diseases, chronic venous insufficiency, and lymphedema can contribute to these fluid shifts. Allergies or sinus inflammation can also cause swelling around the face and eyes.
Fluid retention, influenced by factors like high salt intake, dehydration, or lack of movement, can cause fluid to pool in lower body parts due to gravity. When lying down, this fluid can shift to the upper body, stretching the skin. Dr. Scott Nass, a family medicine physician, noted that medical conditions affecting the kidneys, heart, thyroid, or inflammatory processes can increase the risk of such retention.
As people age, skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity, making it less able to rebound from pressure. This decreased elasticity, combined with dryness, can cause sleep lines to linger longer. A 2022 study in Dermatology Practical and Conceptual suggested collagen supplements might help improve elasticity in aging skin, while body butters can address dryness.
Beyond internal factors, external pressure from sleeping positions and bedding plays a significant role. Allen stated that prolonged pressure from bedding is the most common cause. Nass added that pillows, sheets, sleepwear, and sleeping in an unusual position for extended periods can create temporary creases. Sleeping on the stomach or side is more likely to lead to these lines compared to sleeping on the back.
The texture of bedding can also exacerbate the issue. Rougher fabrics or textured pillowcases may contribute to more prominent lines than smoother materials. Opting for silk pillowcases and sheets can reduce friction and localized pressure, potentially minimizing sleep wrinkles.
Contrary to popular belief and social media trends, sleep lines do not necessarily indicate the quality of sleep achieved. Nass clarified that these lines simply show where pressure was applied during sleep and do not reflect sleep stages or quality. Individuals can experience poor or interrupted sleep and still wake up with lines.
While temporary sleep lines are generally not a cause for concern, persistent puffiness, pain, skin discoloration, or marks that do not resolve should prompt a conversation with a healthcare provider, as they could signal an underlying medical issue.