There’s nothing that makes your skin glow quite like a satisfying romp between the sheets. Blood flow, circulating hormones, and a decrease in stress levels make up the perfect recipe for clearer, brighter skin. But what’s the science behind your glow? And can your skin reap long-term benefits from regular orgasms? We break it down below.

Step 1: Blood flow

Sex does involve a little cardio (or a lot depending on the couple 😉), but all that moving around isn’t the only thing that increases blood flow. Your blood vessels also dilate to increase blood flow to the genitals which has the pleasant side effect of bringing blood flow to the surface of your skin. You may find that your face, neck, or chest become flushed during arousal in a way that has nothing to do with exertion. That’s your body prepping for sex. All this extra blood pumping brings fresh oxygen to your skin and boosts collagen production (the stuff that gives skin its bounce. That leaves you looking refreshed and awake.

Step 2: Hormones

Although fluctuating hormone levels can be a root cause of acne, hormone fluctuations during and after sex can actually contribute to clearer skin. Serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and prolactin constitute a hormonal cocktail that is released during and after sex that fights the effects of cortisol (a stress hormone) on your body. Too much cortisol can increase your skin’s oil production and lead to breakouts – it’s the reason you always get a zit before a big event or during a stressful time at work.

Step 3: Relaxation

As mentioned earlier, stress leads to cortisol which leads to breakouts (good thing sex is a great way to relax!). Aside from the effects of cortisol, stress also contributes to inflammation in the body. Inflammation contributes to acne, wrinkles, dullness – basically everything you don’t want in your skin. More sex means less stress, less inflammation, and better skin.

At the end of the day, adding an orgasm to your routine may be the best decision you make for your skin. It’s fun, it’s effective, and it’s free – you can’t beat that.

Use the code MAUDE for $20 off any Apostrophe medication.