Sleep position, new pillow helps prevent wrinkles

NEW YORK (WABC) -- How do you sleep? On your stomach? On your back?

What if we told you that how you sleep could give you wrinkles?

"If your face is positioned in one spot for a long time, skin gets scrunched up," said Dr. Michael Shapiro, of Vanguard Dermatology. "And as we get older, they don't disappear as quickly."

Doctors' recommendation? Sleep on your back.

And now there are also pillows to prevent wrinkles.

"So, if you're turning, there is a little bit of an incline to keep you on your back," Dr. Shapiro said.

One pillow costs about $200, while others are less. Shapiro says that can help the 70 percent of people who do not sleep on their backs. Also, for about $10, a slippery satin pillowcase can keep skin from bunching up as much.

Shapiro said often he sees patients like Nellie Andino, who are shocked to hear shuteye can lead to crows feet.

"I know, it surprised me," she said. "I sleep on my side, so I guess that's a problem."

Shapiro also recommends cleaning and moisturizing the face, neck and chest before going to bed to keep chest lines that some wake up with away. And, remember, sleep is free. During sleep, cells rejuvenate.