What are the effects of alcohol on the face?
In France, the average alcohol consumption, representing about 36 liters per person per year, raises questions about its effects not only related to behavior but also physical. One of the concerns is the effects on the face . So, in this article, we will see the direct and progressive impacts of alcohol on the skin. First, the immediate reactions such as dehydration and inflammation, which can be exacerbated by excessive consumption. Then, the longer-term consequences, such as accelerated skin aging, which can be observed in people with chronic alcohol addiction. Our goal is to provide you with effective solutions to help you minimize the effects of alcohol on your face.
The metabolic impact of alcohol on the face
Drinking alcohol significantly affects the body 's metabolism , thus having direct repercussions on the skin of the face. It can disrupt hormonal balance and increase levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, which can accelerate skin aging . Also, the alcohol present affects the quality of sleep , an essential factor for skin regeneration. Lack of restful sleep worsens signs of aging such as wrinkles and sagging skin . Also, drinking alcohol can unbalance sebum production, leading to problems such as acne or oily skin . Finally, its diuretic effect causes dehydration, which reduces the elasticity of the skin and accentuates fine lines . To counteract these effects and not take the risk of harming your skin, it is recommended to moderate the amount of alcohol during a boozy evening for example and to favor adequate hydration with products such as Hydratis solutions.
The immediate effects of alcohol on the skin
The short-term effects of alcohol consumption on the skin are often noticeable quickly. Alcohol, acting as a diuretic, causes noticeable dehydration, which can make the skin appear dull , dry , and less elastic . This effect is often accompanied by a puffy or swollen appearance of the face, due to the dilation of blood vessels. In addition, alcohol consumption can cause temporary redness or rashes, especially in people with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as rosacea. Short-term effects also include impaired sleep quality, which can manifest as dark circles or bags under the eyes .
Long-term effects of alcohol on the skin
The long-term effects of drinking too much alcohol on your skin can be profound and varied. Over time, alcohol can increase the risk of chronic dehydration , affecting your skin's elasticity and natural glow. This dehydration contributes to accelerated skin aging, manifesting itself in more pronounced wrinkles and a loss of firmness.
Additionally, the impact of alcohol on the liver and other essential organs can decrease their ability to effectively eliminate toxins, which impacts overall skin health. Over time, alcoholic beverages can also aggravate conditions like rosacea, leading to redness and ongoing inflammation.
The cause of puffy facial appearance due to alcohol
One of the most visible effects of alcoholic beverage consumption is the puffy appearance of the face. This reaction is mainly due to the dilation of blood vessels in the face, a phenomenon again caused by alcohol. This dilation leads to an inflammatory reaction that affects both the body and the face . In addition, the sugar contained in alcoholic beverages increases blood sugar levels and interferes with cell regeneration. This exacerbates skin problems and leads to negative aesthetic consequences that gradually manifest and worsen over time. Chronic inflammation of the face, in particular, is a hallmark of this long-term reaction to alcohol consumption.
Alcohol and the appearance of wrinkles
Skin dehydration
Drinking alcohol contributes significantly to skin dehydration due to its diuretic effect, meaning it increases the elimination of water through the kidneys. This effect not only causes a "hangover" feeling, but also a loss of overall hydration in the body and, by extension, in the skin. Ultimately, the skin loses its shine and elasticity, making the lips drier and small wrinkles more visible due to this dehydration.
Acceleration of skin aging
Regular alcohol consumption accelerates skin aging, especially when combined with other factors such as an unbalanced diet, smoking, or UV exposure.
Impact on the liver
Moreover, this type of drink puts a strain on the liver , the organ responsible for neutralizing toxins including alcohol. Excessive consumption can therefore lead to general fatigue of the body and a slowdown in the cell renewal process, leading to the appearance of wrinkles.
Effect of sugar
The sugar in alcoholic beverages makes this situation worse by increasing blood sugar levels and inhibiting cell regeneration, contributing to premature skin aging.
Mitigating the effects of alcohol on the skin: tips and care
Rehydration
To eliminate alcohol from the body and reduce its effects on the skin, proper rehydration is essential. Hydratis rehydration solution, specially formulated to replenish lost body fluids, is perfectly suited to remedy dehydration caused by alcohol. It is advisable to increase your water intake, in addition to Hydratis , to ensure optimal and effective hydration .
Alcohol and tobacco
It is also important to avoid the combination of alcohol and tobacco, which can aggravate skin problems.
A tailored care routine
A proper skin care routine also plays a crucial role. Using a gentle cleanser , hydrating masks and regularly applying moisturizer will help nourish and repair the skin.
UV protection
Protection against UV rays and a balanced diet are essential to preserve the elasticity and youthfulness of the skin.
The strategy to adopt
Although reducing or stopping alcohol consumption is the most effective approach to reverse its effects on the skin, it is important to note that the detoxification process may initially intensify certain skin problems. However, over time and with regular use of Hydratis , the skin will gradually regain its natural hydration and radiance. We therefore recommend taking one tablet in a 250ml glass of water after consuming alcohol.
Hydratis plays a key role in restoring skin hydration , effectively compensating for dehydration caused by alcohol and helping to restore skin elasticity. Regular use of Hydratis also helps slow down the aging process of skin cells. In addition to reducing or stopping alcohol consumption, incorporating the solution into your routine can reduce the puffy appearance of the face induced by alcohol, promoting healthier skin and a more radiant complexion every day. Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, so we trust you to drink in moderation!
Bibliography
- Impact of Smoking and Alcohol Use on Facial Aging in Women: Results of a Large Multinational, Multiracial, Cross-sectional Survey; (2019) - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31531169/
- Reduction of harm associated with alcohol consumption, 2001, INSERM https://www.inserm.fr/wp-content/uploads/2021-05/inserm-expertisecollective-alcool2021- synthese.pdf
- Alcohol and Alcoholism, Volume 35, Issue 1, January 2000; Acute effect of alcohol on androgens in premenopausal women - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10684783/
- https://www.journaldequebec.com/2018/11/11/voici-5-consequences-directes-de-lalcool- sur-votre-peau-apres-une-brosse