Alcohol consumption is known to worsen flares of both eczema and psoriasis, and this effect can be particularly noticeable after facials or other skin treatments. Alcohol acts as a trigger for inflammation and immune system dysregulation, which are central to the pathology of these skin conditions. Therefore, drinking alcohol can exacerbate symptoms such as redness, itching, scaling, and discomfort following a facial.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by rapid skin cell growth leading to thick, scaly plaques. Alcohol is a recognized trigger for psoriasis flares and is associated with increased severity of the disease. Studies and expert guidelines strongly recommend limiting or quitting alcohol to reduce flare frequency and severity. Alcohol may worsen psoriasis by promoting systemic inflammation and impairing the immune response, which can lead to more intense skin symptoms after any skin trauma or irritation, including facials[1][2][3].
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition marked by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Alcohol can worsen eczema by dehydrating the skin and increasing inflammation. It may also impair the skin barrier function, making the skin more susceptible to irritation and allergic reactions. After a facial, when the skin is often exfoliated or treated with active ingredients, alcohol-induced dehydration and inflammation can amplify eczema flares, causing increased redness, itching, and discomfort[4][5].
Facials typically involve cleansing, exfoliation, and application of various products that can temporarily disrupt the skin barrier or cause mild irritation. For individuals with eczema or psoriasis, this disruption can trigger a flare. When combined with alcohol consumption, which independently promotes inflammation and skin barrier dysfunction, the risk and severity of flares increase. Alcohol can also dilate blood vessels, leading to redness and flushing, which may worsen the visible symptoms after a facial.
Medical experts emphasize lifestyle modifications, including reducing alcohol intake, as a key part of managing both psoriasis and eczema. Avoiding alcohol can help maintain skin hydration, reduce systemic inflammation, and improve the skin’s ability to recover from treatments like facials. For people with severe psoriasis, alcohol use is linked not only to worsening skin symptoms but also to increased risk of comorbidities, making abstinence or moderation even more critical[1][3].
In summary, alcohol worsens eczema and psoriasis flares after facials by increasing inflammation, impairing skin barrier function, and promoting dehydration. People with these conditions are advised to avoid or limit alcohol, especially around the time of skin treatments, to minimize flare risk and support skin healing.
Sources:
[1] Medical News Today, Severe psoriasis: Treatment, home remedies, and more
[2] Scripps AMG, Psoriasis vs Eczema: How to Tell the Difference
[3] WebMD, 11 Psoriasis Self-Care Tips
[4] Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, Factors Associated with Exacerbation in Psoriasis compared to Eczema
[5] AOL, Here’s What Happens To Your Skin After You Stop Drinking Alcohol
