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As a dermatologist, I love “Dry January” because it’s one of the rare wellness trends that often gives people fast, visible results—not just on the scale or sleep tracker, but right in the mirror.
If you’ve ever woken up after a night of drinking and thought, “Why do I look puffy, dull, and older?” — you’re not imagining it. Alcohol has real biological effects that show up in the skin quickly, and heavy or frequent drinking can accelerate long-term skin aging.
Let’s break down what alcohol does to the body, what it does to your skin, and why even a few weeks off can be a game changer.
Alcohol’s Toxic Effects on the Body (It’s More Than a Hangover)
Alcohol affects nearly every organ system. And while “toxic” may sound dramatic, it’s an accurate term—your liver must metabolize alcohol as a toxin, and that process impacts inflammation, hydration, nutrient balance, and cellular repair.
1) Alcohol dehydrates the body
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases urination and fluid loss. That dehydration affects more than just thirst—it impacts circulation, energy, sleep, and skin hydration.
2) Alcohol disrupts sleep quality
Even if alcohol makes you sleepy, it commonly reduces restorative sleep and increases nighttime waking. Poor sleep translates to slower tissue repair and a more tired, inflamed appearance the next day.
3) Alcohol increases inflammation
Inflammation doesn’t just affect the inside of your body—it shows up on the skin as redness, puffiness, and flare-ups of conditions like acne and rosacea.
4) Heavy drinking strains the liver (and skin can reflect it)
When alcohol contributes to liver dysfunction over time, skin changes can become visible (such as jaundice or prominent facial blood vessels), because the liver plays a key role in processing waste and maintaining balance in the body.
The Skin Effects of Alcohol (What I See Most in Dermatology)
Alcohol doesn’t just “dry you out.” It affects multiple pathways that influence skin texture, tone, inflammation, and aging.
1) Dehydration = dullness + fine lines
When skin loses water, it can look:
- duller
- more textured
- more wrinkled, even if you don’t have deep wrinkles yet
Many people notice that within just a week or two without alcohol, their skin looks more “plump” and even-toned simply because hydration stabilizes.
2) Puffy face and under-eyes
Alcohol commonly causes fluid shifts and inflammation, which can lead to:
- a swollen or bloated face
- puffiness around the eyes
- softer jawline definition
This is one of the first improvements people notice during Dry January: less puffiness, more definition.
3) Flushing and redness (especially in rosacea-prone skin)
Alcohol can widen blood vessels and trigger flushing, which can look like:
- redness across the cheeks and nose
- warm, irritated skin
- worsening rosacea over time
If you’re someone who gets “wine face” or persistent redness, Dry January can be surprisingly therapeutic.
4) Breakouts and congestion
Alcohol can worsen acne for several reasons:
- sleep disruption
- inflammation
- dehydration (skin overcompensates with oil in some people)
- sugary mixers and high-glycemic foods consumed while drinking
The result is often more:
- clogged pores
- inflamed pimples
- “random” breakouts that feel hard to control
5) Accelerated skin aging over time
When alcohol exposure is frequent, the combination of:
- inflammation
- oxidative stress
- dehydration
- impaired repair processes
may contribute to more visible aging such as laxity, rough texture, and uneven skin tone over the years.
6) Worsened chronic skin conditions
In dermatology, alcohol is a known trigger for flare-ups in many patients, including:
- rosacea
- psoriasis
- seborrheic dermatitis
Not everyone flares, but if you do, removing alcohol can be one of the most impactful lifestyle changes you can make.
Why Dry January Pays Off! If you have problems with flushing or redness and need better skin this year, please schedule your consultation! Here is to your most beautiful skin yet!
Dr. Tanya Kormeili is a nationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist and Clinical Professor of Dermatology at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine. With prestigious training and extensive experience in both medical and cosmetic dermatology, she is renowned for her expertise in skin cancer treatment, laser and surgical procedures, and advanced aesthetic care. An accomplished researcher and frequent speaker, Dr. Kormeili has contributed groundbreaking work to dermatology literature and earned numerous international awards for her clinical excellence. Dedicated to educating patients and advancing the field, she combines cutting-edge science with a personalized approach to help every patient achieve healthy, radiant skin.