Effects of Alcohol on Skin: Does Alcohol Age Your Skin?

As we grow older and age, our skin ages. This is no secret. However, just as there are ways to keep your skin looking younger, there are factors that can contribute to the appearance of aging skin. This is especially true for people who consume alcohol. The effects of alcohol on skin and aging may not be something you have considered before, but there is a correlation.

Similar to smoking cigarettes, alcohol and aging skin are highly correlated. In fact, alcohol is considered to be one of the top lifestyle choices that can age your skin prematurely. Other causes of premature skin aging are excessive UV exposure, genetics, and illicit drug use. Thus, it’s important to practice moderation to prevent the unfortunate effects of alcohol on skin and aging.

How Much Alcohol Will Affect Your Skin?

Even moderate drinking can affect the skin, but the impact grows with frequency and quantity. Skin problems often begin to appear in people who drink heavily or regularly over long periods of time. According to general health guidelines, more than seven drinks per week for women or fourteen drinks per week for men is considered heavy drinking and can start to harm both overall health and skin appearance.

Drinking multiple days in a row, consuming large amounts in one sitting, or skipping hydration and skincare afterward can also speed up visible signs of aging. Because everyone’s body processes alcohol differently, even smaller amounts may cause redness, dryness, or breakouts in sensitive individuals.

Limiting alcohol to occasional use, drinking plenty of water, and maintaining good nutrition can help protect the skin and prevent long-term damage. If skin problems persist despite moderate drinking, it may be a sign that your body and skin are reacting strongly to alcohol.

The Effects of Alcohol on Skin and Aging

Alcohol is a substance that is made up of water, ethanol, and carbon dioxide. It is a depressant that can be found in beverages such as beer, wine, liquor, and mixed drinks. Furthermore, alcohol is considered to be a psychoactive drug, meaning it affects the mind. When consumed, it causes the drinker to feel relaxed and sometimes happy. This causes some people who drink alcohol to consume far more than what is recommended. Unfortunately, consuming too much of the aforementioned drinks can lead to an individual experiencing the effects of alcohol on skin and aging.

When you drink alcohol, the ethanol is absorbed into your bloodstream and then circulated throughout your body. It affects different areas of the body in different ways. For example, when it comes to the effects of alcohol on the skin, ethanol can cause dehydration. This is because ethanol competes with water for absorption into the cells, and when there is more ethanol present, less water is available to the cells.

Alcohol can also be considered a toxin that the body has to work hard to eliminate. After alcohol travels throughout the body, your liver then tries to break it down and remove it from your system. This process uses up valuable resources that are needed for other important functions, like repairing damaged cells. Subsequently, this can result in the following negative effects of alcohol on skin and aging:

Dehydration: Drains moisture from the skin, causing dryness and flakiness.
Loss of Elasticity: Reduces collagen and firmness, leading to sagging and fine lines.
Redness and Inflammation: Expands blood vessels, creating a flushed or blotchy appearance.
Acne Breakouts: Disrupts hormone balance and increases oil production.
Dull Complexion: Slows circulation, making skin look pale or tired.
Puffiness: Causes fluid retention, especially under the eyes.
Broken Capillaries: Repeated vessel dilation leads to visible red veins.
Premature Aging: Speeds up wrinkle formation and skin thinning.
Delayed Healing: Weakens the skin’s ability to repair after damage or irritation.
Worsened Skin Conditions: Can aggravate rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis.

Dehydration

Dehydration is always a major concern of healthcare professionals when it comes to alcohol consumption or abuse. This is because alcohol abuse is dangerous for many reasons. It can negatively impact health or affect medications a person is taking.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t end there as there are also negative effects of alcohol on skin and aging regarding dehydration. The dehydration that results from drinking alcohol can lead to many negative effects on the skin, including dryness, wrinkles, and sagging skin.

Collagen Depletion

Alcohol can also accelerate the aging process by decreasing collagen production in the skin. Collagen is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the skin, so a decrease in collagen production can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and a generally older appearance. In addition to the effects of dehydration and decreased collagen production, alcohol can also cause blood vessels to dilate, which leads to flushing and redness in the skin.

Dullness

In addition to these effects, alcohol can produce a dulling effect on the skin. This is because alcohol can interfere with the skin’s ability to absorb vitamin A, which is necessary for healthy, radiant skin.

Acne

Alcohol can also increase the production of oils in the skin, which can lead to acne breakouts. Too much alcohol intake will also increase your sebum production. Sebum is the oil secretion on your face).

When this excess sebum mixes with dead skin, dirt, or bacteria, it forms blackheads which later turn into whiteheads or pimples. Pimples may appear even if you are not breaking out because these bumps are blocked pores filled with excess sebum mixed with dirt, skin, or bacteria.

Blood Vessel Dilation

Blood vessel dilation is another one of the effects of alcohol on skin and aging. Alcohol causes the blood vessels to expand, which may lead to redness and flushed skin. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can also cause spider veins or broken capillaries due to the effects of the alcohol on blood vessels.

Capillaries are extremely small blood vessels that deliver oxygenated blood throughout the body; however, drinking too much alcohol over a long period of time can damage these tiny vessels. This is where the trope of the red-faced alcoholic in television and movies is derived from. As the capillaries rupture, areas around the cheeks, nose, and mouth become red. These may go away with time or treatment, but only if the individual stops drinking alcohol.

Sugar Spikes

Many types of alcohol contain large amounts of sugar. Wine and mixed drinks in particular have high sugar content. Subsequently, this leads to one of the other effects of alcohol on skin and aging: spiking your levels of insulin.

High levels of insulin contribute to aging effects because they prevent collagen production and increase collagen breakdown in the skin, which would normally occur at a slower rate than this spike in insulin levels. The effects of high insulin levels on the skin are visible first on the face, neck, and body. The effects of this include facial flushing, saggy skin, and wrinkles.

Premature Aging

The effects of drinking too much alcohol don’t stop at collagen destruction and spiking insulin levels. Excess drinking has been linked to an increased risk for contracting diseases that are more commonly contracted as humans age. These can include cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and osteoporosis.

DNA Damage

Drinking too much alcohol can also affect the DNA in your cells. It does this by causing permanent or chronic inflammation within the body that continues to damage cells as time goes on. Inflammation is caused by high levels of free radicals. Free radicals are breakers of chemical bonds and cause oxidative stress brought about by drinking too much alcohol. These effects of alcohol on skin and aging contribute greatly to premature aging effects such as wrinkles and age spots.

Skin Disorders

Alcohol is also known to cause or worsen many different skin disorders such as:

Flushing
Rosacea
Psoriasis
Seborrhea
Urticaria (hives)
Swelling (edema)
Erythema (redness)
Sunburn susceptibility
Dermatitis (including dermatitis acneiform)

In addition, it has effects on your immune system which can lead to a worsening of autoimmune conditions such as lupus erythematosus.

Internal Aging

The effects of alcohol on the skin aren’t the only consequences of consuming too much alcohol too frequently. Inner effects from drinking too much alcohol have been linked with brain damage leading to memory loss and neurological issues including Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, anecdotal evidence suggests that Alzheimer’s may be accelerated by years of problem drinking. Furthermore, research concludes that alcohol can contribute to the development of dementia.

Does Alcohol Age Your Skin?

Alcohol can have a noticeable impact on your skin’s appearance and overall health. While an occasional drink might not cause lasting harm, frequent or heavy alcohol use can accelerate visible signs of aging. This happens because alcohol affects hydration, collagen production, and circulation, all key factors in keeping skin looking firm and youthful.

Over time, alcohol can leave visible marks on the skin that signal premature aging. These signs often develop gradually but can become more noticeable with continued drinking. Common symptoms include:

Dry, flaky skin: Alcohol strips the body of water and essential nutrients, leading to dryness and a rough texture.
Fine lines and wrinkles: Dehydration and loss of collagen make the skin less plump, allowing wrinkles to appear sooner and more deeply.
Dull or uneven tone: Alcohol affects circulation and oxygen delivery to the skin, creating a tired or grayish complexion.
Redness and broken capillaries: Repeated dilation of blood vessels from drinking can cause visible red veins on the face, especially around the nose and cheeks.
Puffiness or swelling: Alcohol causes inflammation and fluid retention, leading to puffiness under the eyes or around the face.
Sagging skin: Collagen breakdown and dehydration contribute to loss of firmness, especially around the jawline and cheeks.
Acne or rosacea flare-ups: Alcohol can trigger or worsen skin conditions, leading to frequent redness or breakouts.

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Face?

Alcohol has several noticeable effects on the face, many of which develop gradually with regular drinking. Because facial skin is thin and sensitive, it often shows early signs of alcohol-related damage.

Alcohol causes blood vessels in the face to expand, which leads to redness, flushing, and visible broken capillaries, especially around the nose and cheeks. This can give the skin a permanently flushed appearance over time. Dehydration from alcohol also makes the face look dry, dull, and tired, while reduced collagen levels can cause fine lines, sagging, and puffiness around the eyes.

In some people, alcohol can trigger or worsen acne and rosacea, leading to breakouts and persistent redness. Swelling or bloating may occur the next day due to water retention and inflammation. Over time, these effects can make the skin look older and less firm.

When Are Skin Issues from Alcohol a Problem?

Occasional dryness or redness after drinking is common, but when these symptoms become frequent or persistent, they may signal a deeper issue. Skin problems caused by alcohol become a concern when they no longer fade after a few days or when new issues continue to appear even with moderate drinking.

You may be experiencing a problem if you notice constant redness, visible blood vessels, breakouts that do not heal, or a dull, tired complexion that does not improve with skincare. These signs suggest that alcohol is affecting your circulation, hydration, and the skin’s ability to repair itself.

Severe or ongoing skin changes, such as swelling, itching, or sores that take longer to heal, can also point to more serious health effects related to the liver or immune system. If you see these symptoms or feel that your skin health is worsening despite efforts to care for it, it is important to speak with a doctor or dermatologist. They can help identify whether alcohol is the cause and guide you toward treatment and recovery options.

How Are the Effects of Alcohol on Skin Treated?

Treating skin affected by alcohol involves both lifestyle changes and targeted skincare. The first step is reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption. This allows the body to rehydrate, restore nutrients, and begin repairing damaged skin. Drinking plenty of water and eating a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports skin healing from within.

Topical skincare can also help. Moisturizers, gentle cleansers, and products containing hyaluronic acid or vitamin C can improve hydration, reduce dullness, and support collagen production. For redness, broken capillaries, or persistent inflammation, dermatologists may recommend treatments such as laser therapy, chemical peels, or other professional procedures to restore skin tone and texture.

Addressing underlying health issues is important as well. Chronic alcohol use can affect liver function and overall immunity, which in turn impacts the skin. Managing these conditions with professional guidance improves long-term skin health. Consistent self-care, protection from sun exposure, and avoiding additional skin stressors will help maintain a healthier complexion after alcohol-related damage.

Can Skin Issues From Alcohol Be Reversed?

Many of the skin problems caused by alcohol can improve once drinking stops or is significantly reduced. The body begins to restore hydration and rebalance nutrients, allowing the skin to recover its natural glow over time. Improvements can often be seen within a few weeks of sobriety, though deeper damage may take longer to heal.

When alcohol use ends, collagen production slowly increases again, helping skin regain some firmness and elasticity. Redness and puffiness often fade as blood vessels and inflammation return to normal. Consistent hydration, a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and good skincare habits can speed up recovery.

While certain long-term effects, such as deep wrinkles or broken capillaries, may not fully disappear, they can become less noticeable with proper care. For lasting improvement, combining sobriety with medical-grade skincare treatments, sun protection, and balanced nutrition can help restore a healthier and more youthful appearance.

Getting Treatment for Alcohol Addiction with Harmony Place

Recognizing the signs of alcohol addiction is crucial, and changes to your skin due to excessive alcohol consumption can be a warning signal. The impact of alcohol on aging and skin health may indicate that your drinking habits are more frequent or heavier than is healthy. If you find quitting or reducing your alcohol intake challenging, this could suggest a physical dependency or even an addiction. At Harmony Place, conveniently located near Los Angeles, California, we offer a wide range of resources on our website to help you understand and address alcohol addiction.

Our facility provides a comprehensive array of alcohol addiction treatments tailored to meet individual needs. These include both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation options, ensuring that every patient receives the care level appropriate for their unique recovery journey. We blend evidence-based practices with compassionate care to create personalized treatment plans designed to foster lasting sobriety. Whether you are exploring the cost of alcohol detox, wondering how to pay for alcohol addiction rehab, or considering the specific options available through Anthem BCBS Colorado alcohol rehab treatment and Anthem BCBS Nevada alcohol rehab treatment, Harmony Place is here to guide you through each step.

Navigating insurance coverage can often feel overwhelming, but Harmony Place is here to assist. Our team works with several major providers, including Anthem BCBS alcohol addiction treatment, Cigna alcohol addiction rehab, and Optum alcohol rehab, to help you determine your insurance coverage levels. By accessing our resources, you can understand how to leverage your insurance to support your recovery journey. We are committed to making the process as smooth as possible, providing detailed information on alcohol rehab treatment costs and how to pay for alcohol rehab.

If you find yourself unable to stop drinking on your own, know that you are not alone, and there is help available. Harmony Place offers alcohol addiction treatment to help you or a loved one reclaim your life from the grip of addiction. Contact us today for an alcohol assessment and explore which treatment option will work best for you. Visit our website to learn more about the comprehensive support we offer and take the first step toward a healthier, addiction-free future.

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Last Updated: October 7, 2025