The Beauty Benefits Of Sex: 9 Ways Sex Can Nourish Your Skin, Hair & More

The increase in the hormone estrogen through orgasm, as well as the physical activity involved in sex, can promote healthy skin, hair, and overall healthy aging. We chatted with holistic dermatologist Keira Barr, M.D., to explain some of the beauty benefits of sex:

Overall, she says estrogen promotes skin health, hair health, and vitality. "It also plays a role in supporting normal skin barrier function, maintaining skin hydration, keeping oil gland production at bay, improving wound healing, and modulating inflammation2," she adds. 

One study on over 3,500 men and women even found those who had sex three times a week appeared seven to 12 years younger than their actual age.

Not only does it enhance the skin, but "estrogen also helps keep your hair in the growing (anagen) phase, which helps you have those luscious locks," Barr says. While studies haven't looked at the effects of sex on hair growth specifically, pregnant women who have increased levels of estrogen have been shown to have thicker, fuller hair5.

With naturally flushed cheeks and a little tinge of dewy sweat, who needs makeup? 

"Oil gland secretion and inflammation are two of the primary contributors to acne formation," Barr says. In other words, managing stress may lower the chance of developing stress-induced breakouts.

Since stress impairs college synthesis and repair, Barr says by lowering stress, regular sex might even promote wound healing, including acne lesions. So long, dark spots! 

This thinning of the skin not only happens externally but also in the vagina, which can lead to pain during sex. Having sex more frequently can promote estrogen production and elasticity in the vagina, so tightness and pain may be reduced, according to gynecologist Lynley Durrett, M.D. In fact, research has shown that having sex regularly may even delay menopause.

For those who are into this sort of thing: The breasts can swell up to 25% during sex, according to internist Michael Roizen, M.D. This change occurs due to increased blood flow during sexual activity. They'll generally go back to their normal size following an orgasm. Nipple height can also increase (aka become erect) through stimulation.

If you're not used to doing this, clinical sexologist Cyndi Darnell, recommends spending conscious, intimate time with your body. "It could be as simple as creating space in your week to lie in bed and run your hands over yourself, either for pleasure or simply for exploration," she once told mbg. This can support your sexual self-esteem and overall confidence.

Editor's Note (June 24, 2022): This article was originally published on May 10, 2021 A previous version of this article indicated that a study included over 3,000 participants. We have since clarified this to indicate the study included over 3,500 participants.