Skin Deep: Unveiling the Impact of Excessive Drinking on Flawless Skin

When I made the decision to give up alcohol, my primary focus was on improving my overall health rather than expecting any specific benefits for my skin. However, it was around four or five weeks into my sobriety journey when my husband unexpectedly complimented my complexion. Until then, I hadn’t really paid much attention. But it was at that moment, I realized that cutting out alcohol had an additional, positive impact on my skin. Without putting in any extra effort, I noticed that my skin appeared smoother and more hydrated.

Alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on the skin. It can lead to dullness, dehydration, and various skin issues. From premature aging and increased inflammation to an overall compromised complexion, the effects of alcohol on the skin run deeper than what meets the eye.

From accelerating the aging process and causing heightened inflammation to compromising the overall health of your complexion, here’s a list of the adverse effects that alcohol can have on your skin.

Reduced Acne

Alcohol consumption can increase the production of oil in the skin, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. These are things you don’t think about when you are drinking, but it’s something we all notice after a night out. By backing off alcohol, you can reduce the production of oil in your skin and prevent breakouts. I couldn’t believe how much my skin calmed down when I cut alcohol out of my life.

Better Hydration

Don’t be mistaken! Just because alcohol is a liquid…it’s not HYDRATING YOU! Alcohol consumption dehydrates the body, which has a direct effect on your skin. Dehydration leads to dry, flaky, and itchy skin. In other words, dehydrated skin will accentuate those cute, little wrinkles we love to hate. By cutting out alcohol, you can drastically improve your hydration levels. Your skin will look healthier and more radiant.

Improved Skin Elasticity

Did you know alcohol consumption can lead to a reduction in collagen production? Well, that is not good news for our skin. Who would’ve thought that cocktail before dinner or that bottle of wine you shared with friends is also contributing to wrinkles and sagging skin? No wonder Jennifer Lopez looks so good (Did you know she’s a teetotaler too?)! It’s actually pretty simple. Collagen is a protein that gives skin its elasticity and firmness. By cutting out alcohol, you can improve your skin’s elasticity and help prevent premature aging.

Reduced Inflammation

Drinking can result in redness, acne, and other skin conditions. By not drinking alcohol, you can significantly reduce the inflammation in your body. When I stopped drinking alcohol, I definitely saw a reduction in puffiness, leading to clearer, healthier and happier skin.

Better Sleep

Quite frankly drinking alcohol really messes with your sleep schedule. Not to be “no fun,” but if you want that glowy and fresh, no-makeup look, than reducing or cutting out alcohol is the way to go. And yes! It’s totally possible. Alcohol can disrupt your sleep, which can have a negative impact on your skin. When you don’t get enough sleep, your skin can become dull and tired-looking. By cutting out alcohol, you can improve the quality of your sleep and wake up with refreshed skin.

Reduced Risk of Skin Cancer

I am sure by now you already know that alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of cancer – but did you realize it’s linked specifically to skin cancer too? By not drinking alcohol, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and other skin conditions.