Dull complexion or redness? Alcohol sometimes has an unexpected impact on our skin. Find out how this festive treat marks your face and the pro tips to save it.
A glass of wine after work, a cocktail with friends, a glass of champagne to celebrate… alcohol often finds its way into our moments of relaxation. But beyond its well-known effects on the body, it also interacts with an organ that we observe very closely every day: the skin. Complexion, texture, radiance… what you consume can sometimes be read on the surface, without you really realizing it. What if alcohol was one of those harmless habits that deserves to be looked at a little more closely?
First of all, it is important to distinguish between short-term and long-term effects. When you consume alcohol, the skin is one of the first organs to react. We can quickly observe redness on the face, due to the dilation of blood vessels. Furthermore, alcohol also promotes water loss in the body, which is reflected on the epidermis. The skin appears less supple, less luminous, sometimes more uncomfortable. In the short term, the complexion may appear duller and the features less rested, as if the skin was struggling to regain its natural balance. Once metabolized, alcohol generates free radicals and inflammation, which can worsen skin problems such as acne and rosacea. “In people with reactive skin, even small amounts may be enough to cause symptoms“, explains Dr Derrick Phillips, dermatologist, to the British version of the media Marie Claire.
Beyond its immediate action, alcohol influences the skin in a more discreet way, through its impact on sleep, diet and the body’s internal balance. A shortened or less restorative night often results in a duller complexion and more pronounced dark circles. Likewise, alcohol can disrupt some of the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, which are essential for maintaining its radiance and texture over time. Without being instantly visible, this progressive influence can end up being visible on the skin, especially when consumption becomes regular.
In the long term, the effects are a little more devastating. Indeed, consuming too much alcohol, too often, causes accelerated aging. All of the mechanisms mentioned above damage the production of collagen and elastin. “Drinks high in sugar promote glycation, a phenomenon that stiffens collagen and accelerates aging“, continues the expert. But that’s not all, according to the professional, the drink weakens the skin barrier, which then allows hydration to escape more easily. Result? An irregular skin texture.
Finally, not all alcoholic drinks have the same impact: those rich in sugar, such as certain cocktails or wines, tend to accentuate adverse effects. Spirits appear to be a little less aggressive, without being harmless. To reduce the damage, Dr. Phillips advises alternating each glass of alcohol with water to maintain proper hydration. “When you return home, apply a hydrating serum then a cream rich in ceramides: this can help limit water loss during the night“, he specifies. Ultimately, the best solution still remains moderation.
