Alcohol can definitely make inflammation worse in acne-prone skin, especially after facials. When someone has skin that is already sensitive or prone to breakouts, adding alcohol into the mix—whether by drinking it or using products that contain it—can cause the skin to react more strongly. This is because alcohol triggers inflammation in the body, and when the skin is already in a delicate state after a facial, it becomes even more vulnerable.
Facials are designed to help clear out pores, exfoliate dead skin, and improve the overall look and health of the skin. But after a facial, the skin is often more sensitive than usual. The treatments used during a facial can temporarily weaken the skin’s natural barrier, which is the protective layer that keeps irritants out and moisture in. When this barrier is compromised, the skin is more likely to react to things that would not normally bother it, including alcohol.
Drinking alcohol after a facial can increase inflammation in the body, which can show up on the skin as redness, swelling, or even more breakouts. Alcohol causes the body to release certain chemicals called cytokines, which are involved in the inflammatory process. These cytokines can make existing acne worse and can also trigger new breakouts, especially in people whose skin is already prone to inflammation [1]. This is why some people notice their skin looks worse or feels more irritated after drinking alcohol, especially if they have just had a facial.
Alcohol also dehydrates the body, and this dehydration can affect the skin as well. When the skin is dehydrated, it can become dry, flaky, and more sensitive. This can make acne-prone skin even more likely to become inflamed and irritated. Dehydration can also make the skin look dull and tired, which is the opposite of what most people want after a facial [4].
In addition to increasing inflammation and dehydration, alcohol can disrupt sleep. Poor sleep is another factor that can make acne worse. When people do not get enough rest, their bodies produce more stress hormones, such as cortisol. Cortisol can increase oil production in the skin, which can lead to more clogged pores and breakouts. So, if someone drinks alcohol after a facial and then does not sleep well, their skin may be even more likely to flare up [4].
There is also evidence that alcohol can affect how well certain skin treatments work. For example, some people with chronic inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may find that their treatments are less effective if they drink alcohol regularly. This is because alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to heal and respond to treatment. While this research is mainly focused on more severe skin conditions, it is possible that alcohol could also reduce the effectiveness of acne treatments or make it harder for the skin to recover after a facial [2].
Some studies have looked at the relationship between alcohol and acne specifically. The results are not always clear, but there is some evidence that drinking alcohol can increase the risk of developing acne or make existing acne worse. This is likely because alcohol triggers inflammation and can disrupt the balance of bacteria on the skin, which can lead to more breakouts [1]. Other research has found that certain foods and drinks, including alcohol, can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, which can show up on the skin as redness, swelling, or pimples [3].
It is important to note that not everyone will react the same way to alcohol. Some people may notice that their skin looks worse after drinking, while others may not see much of a difference. However, for people with acne-prone skin, especially after a facial, it is generally a good idea to avoid alcohol or at least limit how much is consumed. This can help reduce the risk of inflammation and keep the skin looking healthy and calm.
In addition to avoiding alcohol, there are other things people can do to help reduce inflammation and protect their skin after a facial. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is important, as is getting enough sleep and managing stress. Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods can also help keep inflammation under control. These lifestyle choices can make a big difference in how the skin looks and feels, especially after a facial [3].
For people who are concerned about how alcohol might be affecting their skin, it can be helpful to talk to a dermatologist or skincare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on a person’s skin type and medical history. They may also recommend certain products or treatments that can help protect the skin and reduce inflammation.
In summary, alcohol can increase inflammation in acne-prone skin, especially after facials. This is because alcohol triggers the release of inflammatory chemicals, dehydrates the body, disrupts sleep, and can interfere with the skin’s ability to heal. For people with sensitive or acne-prone skin, it is best to avoid or limit alcohol consumption, especially after a facial, to help keep the skin calm and healthy.
References
[1] Dr Rachel Ho, Alcohol & Dermatology: The Asian Flushing Syndrome, https://www.drrachelho.com/blog/skin-alcohol-flushing-syndrome/
[2] Lifestyle Medicine for Dermatologic Disease: Emerging Evidence, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12571796/
[3] Acne & Inflammation: Inflammatory Acne Causes & Treatments, https://www.flawlessbymelissafox.com/blog/acne-and-inflammation/
[4] Your Holiday Skin Survival Guide – Doris Day MD, https://dorisdaymd.com/blogs/dr-days-blog/your-holiday-skin-survival-guide
