ฆสพ.สบส. ๒๙๘๓/๒๕๖๗

Why is it that when I can't sleep for several days, I always get a big, inflamed pimple?

Dr. Apinya Saokaew

No. 49465

This is clearly confirmed. Dermatological research indicates that people with chronic insomnia are more likely to experience... The acne severity score is higher. Those who get normal sleep are twice as likely to experience this, especially those with acne.

Here's why: Insomnia directly affects the acne cycle through three main mechanisms: A spike in the stress hormone (cortisol). Which stimulates the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil. A decrease in the effectiveness of the skin barrier. This makes it easy for bacteria to attack, and Transient insulin resistance. This accelerates the inflammatory process, and all of this means that when you don't get enough rest, your skin responds by... Large inflamed pimples It's more difficult to treat than usual, and importantly, it doesn't necessarily mean you have to suffer from insomnia for several days in a row. A huge, inflamed pimple can appear in just one night.

The treatment plan is summarized below by the doctor.

 This answer provides only preliminary information. Please schedule an appointment with a doctor for a detailed examination and information.

Table of Contents

Our bodies are like factories that need maintenance at night. When we don't get sleep, the factory malfunctions, the machines break down, and that's why things like this happen.

Stress hormones (cortisol) are the culprit behind oily skin and acne breakouts.

When we can't sleep, our bodies become stressed without us realizing it. The brain then signals the release of... Cortisol hormone An unusually large amount was released, as if the body was constantly preparing for battle.

  • The result This hormone will stimulate... Sebaceous gland It causes the production of oil to be "excessive".

Have you noticed, patients, that on days you don't get enough sleep, your face is oilier than usual when you wake up, even though you're using the same cream? This excess oil is perfect food for acne bacteria, leading to large, inflamed pimples.

Skin barrier breakdown

The time we are in deep sleep is the golden time for our skin to... Repair worn-out cells. And it strengthens the skin's protective barrier.

The result When you don't get sleep, this process disappears. Skin barrier This weakens the skin, making it easier for dirt, dust, or C. Acnes bacteria to penetrate. It's like leaving the doors and windows locked at night; thieves (bacteria) can easily break in and cause acne, resulting in breakouts that take longer to heal.

Transient insulin resistance

This is something not many people know, but lack of sleep makes the body manage blood sugar levels worse. The body will release... insulin It comes out higher to manage blood sugar.

  • The result High insulin levels directly stimulate oil production and skin inflammation, causing acne to become inflamed, swollen, red, and very painful.

Late at night, when we can't sleep, we often crave sweets or carbohydrates, right? That's right! Eating carbs late at night + high insulin levels = a guaranteed acne breakout.

Acne injection: 100 baht for the first pimple, 50 baht for each subsequent pimple. Inflamed acne injection at D' Lovevery Clinic.

Skin Recovery and Treatment Schedule for Those Who Suffer from Sleep Deprivation (Sleep Deprivation Recovery)

periodGoalMedical Treatment / SkincareBehavior Modification
Short term (SOS)
(First 1-3 days)		Reduces swelling, relieves pain, and speeds up recovery.
Stop the inflammation immediately.		1. Spot treatment for acne: Apply benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid topically to the affected area.
2. Acne patches: It helps to absorb liquids and prevents our hands from touching them.
3. Intralesional Injection (for acne): If the bump is large and very painful, see a doctor immediately for an injection to reduce swelling (only if necessary).		1. Apply a cold compress: Reduce inflammation and redness.
2. Avoid exfoliating your skin: Do not scrub your face.
3. Drink 3 liters of water: Replenish the moisture lost from sleep deprivation.
Mid-term (Recovery)
(1-2 weeks)		Restore the skin's protective barrier.
Reduce redness/dark spots.		1. Moisturizer: Focus on Ceramide and Hyaluronic Acid to strengthen the skin barrier.
2. Niacinamide: Helps reduce oil production and reduce redness.
3. Avoid concentrated AHA/BHA products: Stop using harsh exfoliating treatments until the acne has completely subsided.		1. Go to bed before midnight: The skin's golden hour is between 22.00 PM and 02.00 AM.
2. Avoid sweets and cow's milk: Reduce insulin stimulation that causes acne flare-ups.
Long term (Maintenance)
(1 month or more)		Prevent recurrence.
Balance hormones		1. Retinoids (Vitamin A): Apply before bedtime to control skin cell turnover and reduce clogged pores. (Consult your doctor before use.)
2. Sunscreen: Don't forget this, because skin that has been inflamed will be sensitive to light.		1. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a consistent sleep schedule every day.
2. Managing stress: To keep cortisol levels within the normal range.

Other frequently asked questions

Advanced Brightening Serum - A serum for bright, radiant skin.

Products for dry, sensitive skin (Dry Skin Set)

EXCELLENCE IN RESULTS
COMES FIRST, ALWAYS.
At D' Lovevery Clinic We understand beauty, we understand you, and treatment results are our top priority.

Free consultation. We offer facial contouring, wrinkle reduction, anti-aging treatments, acne treatment, brightening skin treatments, laser treatments for dark spots, redness, melasma, and freckles. Our clinic focuses on results, performed by experienced doctors using high-quality, certified products for your best experience.