There once was a woman who agreed to try out a skin fix trick (and without too much complaining, we imagine). The quest was to have 30 orgasms in 30 days¹. That’s right, this woman set off to conquer the daunting task of getting herself off – whether alone or partnered – for an entire calendar month. The curious result she sought? Luminously clear & vibrant skin. Even more curious? It worked. And upon delving further into this perplexing discovery, I found that she was not the only one to have such an experience. Hey, who knew that, all along, the fix for prettier skin has been as easy as setting aside some special “me” time – and that an orgasm a day can do your skin wonders!

It has long been known that having an orgasm daily or on a regular basis is extremely good for one’s health – both mental & physical. But how is it good for your outward appearance, and why does it work? I did some deeper research on the topic, and here is a summary of my findings —

1. Keeps You (Looking) Young

Our skin is in a constant cycle of damage & repair, and – as we get older – that scale tips more towards the latter. Your skin is exposed to damaging factors (both internally & externally) everyday, so being able to repair itself is vital to its health. And it turns out, some of the hormones released during an orgasm promote just that. Oxytocin and beta-endorphins release anti-inflammatory molecules, while also boosting collagen production (thus reducing wrinkles). A study conducted at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital¹ monitored couples over the course of ten years. Behind a two-way mirror, the couples with active sex lives were judged to be between 5-7 years younger than their actual age. This was simply one study of many that have hailed similar results. And well, if that isn’t already proof enough…

2. Dons Dewy Glow

This one seems relatively simple. When you start getting aroused, your blood starts pumping and oxygen circulates. The increase in oxygen makes your skin look brighter and also flushes out toxins – which, rumor has it, may even have the benefit of plumping up your lips. The rush of blood to your face & cheeks, in particular, will last long beyond the intimate workout sesh, and the light film of moisture on your face will give you a dewy fresh-out-of-the-gym look. Actually, I think might be blushing right now just writing about it ☺️

3. Zaps Zits & Dryness

Oxytocin, which I mentioned earlier, decreases any skin inflammation associated with persistent acne. A regular release of this hormone will clear up skin, even reducing the visibility of more severe conditions (such as rashes or eczema). Not to mention the effect that lowering stress levels can have on clearing up acne… and I can speak from personal experience on this one. You can also think of increased blood circulation as an increased circulation of water. Water flows directly to your largest organ – yes, I’m talking about your skin ? – and we all know how crucial hydration is for a radiant complexion.

Related Article: How to Help Dry and/or Dehydrated Skin

4. Strips Away Stress

“Pimples retreat, screaming in fear of Aphrodite’s hormone of love…” What on earth am I talking about? Oxytocin again, which works against zits & stress alike. You know that momentary feeling after sex (or masturbation) where all your fears fly away and all is right with the world? Then you’ve felt it. Stress-relief in the flesh – and on the flesh. Freeing yourself from stress and anxiety will clear your skin, help you sleep, and prevent time-worn worry lines.

5. Helps You Get Your Beauty Sleep

Aha! So that’s what Sleeping Beauty was up to before her eternal snooze… Individuals who orgasm more often sleep more deeply and wake up feeling more refreshed. I think many of us may have noticed this more blatantly after penetrative sex; after the penis ejaculates, the body produces a hormone called prolactin. This basically knocks you out right away. So if your sweetie passes out directly after love-making, there’s actually a scientific explanation for it. Prolactin is produced after vaginal orgasms as well, although the effect is slightly less intense. A good night’s sleep is associated with a whole host of health benefits, such as an increased metabolism, longer life expectancy, and keener cognitive functioning. Also? No puffy skin with ugly purple circle raccoon eyes. Yes, it’s decided: sleep is mandatory for beautiful skin.

6. Zeroes in on Cellulite

Sex-ercising is definitely a cardio workout. We burn enough calories during sex for it to be considered moderate exercise. From an arterial stand point, having sex is the same as going to a zumba class. But more importantly, every time you orgasm, you’re working out your glutes, butt, and abs. It’s clear that stronger, well-toned muscles means less visible cellulite. Also the boost in collagen production combats the appearance of cellulite, as well. Kegels are a built-in added bonus to this whole equation, promoting pelvic floor strength, and thus, sexual health.

To clarify: I’m not saying that you should be forcing yourself or your partner to make you orgasm everyday. I’m simply pointing out that having good sex is a (very) fun & free skincare tip that just happens to have a seemingly limitless list of other benefits.

Do you have any wacky skincare tips?

Have you tried the 30-Day Orgasm Experiment?

Let us know in the comments below!

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in September 2016 and was updated in November 2019 for accuracy.

Sources:
1. You Can Get Amazing Skin By Doing THIS In The Bedroom
2. Sex is the secret to looking younger