There are many occasions when we want to celebrate and enjoy some good drinks, but have you ever stopped to think about the effect of alcohol on your skin?
After all, overindulging in alcohol can have several consequences for your skin, and it’s essential to understand the effects in order to minimize the impact as much as possible.
Let’s learn how to prepare to enjoy yourself safely without harming your appearance or your health!
What is the Effect of Alcohol on the Skin?
Initially, the main effect of alcohol on the skin is dehydration.
This happens because molecules are sent to the body to metabolize the alcohol. As a result, various parts of the body receive fewer fluids, including the face.
In addition, alcoholic beverages are diuretics, which cause more water to be eliminated through urine, leaving our skin dull and even more lackluster.
Another well-known effect is the infamous “hangover face,” due to the inflammatory effects caused by alcohol. It’s common for the face to become puffy and show temporary redness.
If you’re prone to acne, it’s important to stay alert, as one significant effect of alcohol on the skin is the appearance of blackheads and hormonal imbalance.
The inflammation also worsens with the sugar in drinks, triggering pore dilation and exposing pimples that may have been hidden.
Causes and Consequences of Alcohol on the Skin
The effect of alcohol on the skin occurs due to our metabolism, which uses up certain nutrients to correctly synthesize the alcohol.
If we don’t drink enough water, several parts of the body become dehydrated, including the skin on the face and body.
Additionally, inflammation is a result of lowered defenses, with increased insulin levels needed to metabolize the components of a drink or beer.
Excess alcohol can also affect the levels of microbiomes in your body. These are important bacteria in your gut that help regulate the immune system, which fights harmful agents.
In the long term, alcohol consumption can cause more serious damage to the skin, such as premature aging, dryness, and worsening of dermatitis.
How to Minimize the Damage of Alcohol on the Skin?
To minimize the effect of alcohol on the skin, you don’t have to stop drinking! The main tip is to know how to take care of your skin properly.
Therefore, maintain a good skincare routine to ensure your skin is well-protected and cared for. This way, you won’t feel the full impact of alcohol all at once.
Moreover, it’s recommended to drink water along with alcohol. This helps prevent skin dehydration and, as a bonus, can also reduce the risk of a hangover or worse consequences.
If possible, before going to bed, do a thorough cleanse and apply a night moisturizer to replenish the lost water.
The next day, if you notice that your skin is a bit damaged, try a facial massage with tools like facial cups and cold compresses to help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Finally, the key to everything is balance. The effect of alcohol on the skin can be a nuisance, but enjoying responsibly and safely helps minimize and even prevent these undesirable results.