Drinking alcohol can make you feel more lively, free, and like you are the life of the party. Almost like alcohol is the lifeblood of fun. However, alcohol is also a toxin that vanity may not take kindly to. Why? Well, although the effects that alcohol has on the skin (and aging in general) may not be the most dangerous, they can accelerate the aging process and make you look older well beyond your years. If your appearance is important to you, then you may want to reconsider your drinking habits.
Why Skin Health Matters
Skin, also known as the epidermis, is the largest organ on the body. You heard that right, the skin is an organ. It provides protection to all of your muscles, bones, organs, etc., so that your body is contained to, well… you, and harmful elements are kept out. When skin is not cared for properly (think about what goes into your body as well as what goes on it), it ages quicker and becomes weaker, dry, and cracked. Damaged skin is also more susceptible to bruises, cuts, discoloration, and even certain cancers. If that wasn’t enough, it also becomes saggier and resembles the appearances associated with general aging (i.e.: you look older).
How Alcohol Impacts Skin Health
Dehydration
Alcohol might be a liquid, but it doesn’t provide hydration. On the contrary, alcohol consumption leads to dehydration. When your body does not have enough water, your skin becomes dry, cracked, and scaly. Years of this type of neglect to your skin can cause irreversible damage that makes you look and feel older than you may actually be.
Weakened Immune Response
Another thing that alcohol does is it weakens your body’s immune response. How does this affect your skin? It means that any cuts, scrapes, or other injuries to the skin may heal slower. Scars may be more defined for longer and you may be at a greater risk for infections.
How To Reverse Effects of Alcohol on Skin
Depending on how bad the damage is, it may be possible to reverse some or most of the damage done to your skin by alcohol consumption. Here are 5 simple things to try:
- Stop drinking alcohol
- Start drinking more water (drink half your body weight in oz. every day)
- Use facial lotion regularly
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet high (consider a collagen protein supplement)
- Consult with your dermatologist
The Bigger Picture
While aging and skin problems are concerning on an aesthetic level, they are the least of the worries a heavy alcohol user faces. Alcohol abuse can increase the risk of physical dependence, liver disease, heart disease, relationship problems, career blunders, financial challenges, and so much more. If you or your loved one has tried quitting alcohol and failed, it’s time to get help. Save your own skin–literally–when you begin recovery at Amethyst Recovery Center.
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