Most of us are guilty of enjoying a glass of wine, a beer, or a refreshing cocktail at the end of a long day, but how many of us are aware of the impact these alcoholic treats have on our skin? Everything is good in moderation, but in order to take care of our health and beauty, we must be particularly careful about the amount of alcohol we consume, as it can dramatically age the skin.
FLUSHING AND SPIDER VEINS
Alcohol causes the blood vessels in the very top layers of skin to dilate, which makes the tissue flush pink or red and can emphasise the appearance of spider veins. Although getting a little rosy-cheeked under the influence of alcohol is OK from time to time, the effects can become permanent in those who consume alcohol excessively on a regular basis.
WORSENED SKIN CONDITIONS
Many dermatological conditions such as psoriasis and rosacea are aggravated by alcohol. What may seem like a few harmless drinks could cause a serious flare up of symptoms which may not only look unsightly, but could cause great discomfort too. For many chronic skin conditions, keeping alcohol intake to a minimum is one of the best ways of prevent symptoms occurring, and sufferers have to be particularly strict with themselves when it comes to drinking.
DEHYDRATION
Alcohol significantly dehydrates the body and skin. The morning after a few too many drinks, we tend to feel physically unwell as the body recovers from this dehydration, and our skin often looks dry, sallow and lacking in volume. In the long term, excessive drinking can make skin more prone to wrinkles and adds years to someone’s appearance.
PROTECTING SKIN AFTER ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
In order to keep the dehydrating effects of alcohol at bay, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after alcohol consumption. You should also make sure to nourish your skin with a high quality, deeply hydrating moisturiser, and to use SPF protection on a daily basis to avoid causing sun damage.
Although it can be tempting to reach for a burger, pizza or bag of chips after a few drinks, it’s important to remember the poor effects junk food can have on the skin too. Balance your alcohol intake with nutritious, healthy food choices, and both your skin and body will thank you for it.
GO COLD TURKEY AND SEE THE EFFECTS
It can be difficult to fully understand how much damage we’re doing to our skin through alcohol consumption until we give the habit up. Try cutting alcohol out completely for one month and take selfies without any makeup on once or twice each week to see the progress of your skin’s recovery. You’ll be amazed at the difference; skin will look brighter, smoother and more even, and it will feel softer and healthier too.