Affect the health of skin. Most people have pale skin and puffy eyes after a night of sleep deprivation. The situation is completely due to a chronic lack of sleep can lead to dull skin, fine lines on the face, and dark circles under the eyes. If you are not getting enough sleep, your body release more stress hormones or cortisol. In excessive amounts, cortisol can break down skin collagen or proteins that make the skin smooth and elastic. Lack of sleep also can cause the body to release less growth hormone. When we were young, human growth hormones to encourage growth. In this case, these hormones help increase muscle mass, thicken skin, and strengthen bones.