Dermatologist and psychiatrist Amy Wechsler, M.D. says that her patients who are looking to improve their skin’s appearance are often surprised when she asks them about their sex lives during a consultation. However, it turns out that you should consider sex as part of your skincare routine. And here’s why.

Why sex is part of skincare, according to an expert

Everything you do will have an impact on your skin. Stress and poor sleep hygiene, for instance, will have a negative effect on your skin, resulting in dullness and fine lines, while practicing mindfulness and healthy eating will rejuvenate your skin, giving it a more vibrant glow.

Having a healthy sex life is also good news for your skin (and for other things as well).

Increases good-for-skin hormones

Studies show that women who are sexually active, whether with a partner or solo, tend to have higher levels of estrogen because estrogen levels increase during orgasm. Estrogen is essential for healthy skin, blood vessels, hair follicles, oil glands, and melanocytes.

Reduces stress

Oxytocin, the hormone responsible for lowering cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, is released along with your orgasm. Less cortisol means less breakdown of collagen and elastin, which results in fewer wrinkles. One study that explored the link between sex and overall health in 3,000 participants, found that those who had sex at least three times a week appeared between seven to 12 years younger than their actual age.

Gets the blood flowing

Since sex is a physical activity, it can easily become a form of exercise. If you’re working for your pleasure, then your body will release nitric oxide, which increases blood flow and oxygen throughout the body.