Learn how alcohol affects your appearance

We all know that drinking too much alcohol can be incredibly damaging to our health. Sadly, many people ignore this fact until it’s too late, because we convince ourselves we’ll be OK as we can’t see what’s going on inside our bodies.

Alcohol can have a huge effect on our appearance as well, which is a clear sign that it might be time to cut back. If you look in the mirror and recognise any of these symptoms, consider reducing your alcohol intake, the number of days per week you consume alcohol, or even try cutting it out completely for a while.

Tired eyes

Typically, REM sleep cycles last between six and seven hours. REM sleep is a crucial part of our cycle and ensures that we wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested. Alcohol cuts this cycle down to just one to two hours, which is why no matter what time you wake up after a night on the booze, you’ll always feel tired, your eyes might be puffy and chances are that you’ll have dark circles as well.

Grey skin

Alcohol is a diuretic; it makes your kidneys pass more fluids, which is why we feel so dehydrated after a night of drinking. Skin needs moisture in order to stay healthy and it can therefore become dull and start looking grey if you regularly drink more than the recommended limits.

Saggy skin

Dehydration not only makes your skin look dull but it can also leave it missing the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to keep it elastic and smooth. Heavy drinkers tend to look much older than moderate and light drinkers, and those who abstain completely.

Skin problems

Alcohol dilates the small blood vessels in the skin, which can cause some people to develop red blotches. Rosacea is another symptom of heavy drinking and can lead to persistent redness, visible blood vessels, red bumps and pus-filled spots on the face.

If you think that you or someone you know could have a problem with alcohol, please feel free to visit our alcohol addiction treatment and rehabilitation page for more information about the signs, symptoms and treatments that are available.