Millions of people across the UK are ditching the booze this month and taking part in Dry January. By abstaining from alcohol, people report all kinds of benefits, from improved sleep to having more money.
One of the lesser-known benefits of Dry January is the effect it can have on your skin. According to Danielle Louise, beauty expert on the Fresha app, alcohol is a huge disrupter of hydration levels, inflammation hormones and gut health. All three of these have a direct impact on your skin. She says that those who choose to go sober in January will see many benefits – and one of those is better skin.
She said: “When people stop drinking, they’re often surprised by how quickly their skin responds.
“Alcohol affects everything from oil production to collagen breakdown, so removing it gives the skin a chance to reset.”
She said there are five improvements people will see when they choose to stop drinking, and the first is a change in colour.
By stopping drinking, people will notice a reduction in skin redness and puffiness. She said: “Alcohol dilates blood vessels and triggers inflammation.
« Cutting it out often reduces facial flushing, under-eye puffiness and blotchiness — especially around the cheeks and nose.”
Another benefit is better hydration, Danielle said: “Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it pulls water from the body. Without it, the skin holds moisture more effectively, helping fine lines appear softer and the complexion brighter.”
Ditching the booze may also lead to fewer breakouts. This is because alcohol can spike cortisol and blood sugar levels, which can increase oil production. When you stop drinking, you may notice you have fewer spots, especially hormonal or stress-related breakouts.
Over time, drinking can interfere with your collagen production and vitamin absorption, so when you give yourself a break, you let your skin barrier strengthen. This can lead to a smoother skin texture and a more even tone.
The final change people may notice is a reduction in dark circles under their eyes. Danielle said: “Improved sleep quality and hydration can make under-eye darkness less pronounced — something many people notice by week three or four.”
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