Say hello to that booze-free glow.
Whether it was the result or stress or boredom, it's safe to say lockdown was a time for indulgence, in every sense. While we have zero regrets and it was necessary to get through the alarming news notifications, we're using the ease of restrictions to kickstart some healthier habits, to help us feel more energised and look better. And where better to start, than with our skin?
To our bodies, alcohol is a toxin, which means when we ingest it, our bodies will work to metabolize the alcohol before other sources of energy. Not to mention, alcohol is a dehydrator and can cause sugar cravings. So, if you're keen to be your glowy self come December 1, scroll down to see how a Sober October could get you there.
THE BAD
Alcohol is metabolised into an acetaldehyde compound by the body, which makes all the body's blood vessels relax, but that doesn't actually mean good things for our skin.
What isn't news is the dehydrating effects alcohol (you know, that desert-dry mouth feeling, when you wake up at 4am after a heavy night). All booze acts as a diuretic, meaning you lose more water than normal by going to the toilet more frequently and the ahem trickle-down effect on that on our skin means a duller appearance and more prominent fine lines and wrinkles.
Alcohol also reduces vitamin A levels in the skin, which works as a powerful antioxidant and plays a huge part in our production of collagen. So, in short, boozing is fast-tracking the aging process of the skin.
Add to that the huge sugar levels in wine and cocktails which can cause insulin spikes in and breakouts as a result.
THE OKAY
On a more positive note, if you do go sober for October and swap out wine for tea, you will see an improvement in both your skin and overall health.
The process of your skin renewing itself takes approximately 28 days, but it can vary from person to person and is age dependent, so to see a real difference in the condition of our skin, we'd probably need to start today.
THE GOOD
Come November though, we should expect skin that feels more hydrated, and plumper - and healthier, more even complexion.
And while we're on this wellness buzz, better choices when it comes to nutrition, sleep and exercise can also up the ante of that booze-free glow.
For more information on how to stop drinking for good, check Drink Aware's website here.
If you or someone you know is seeking help for substance use, call the HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline: 1800 459 459 or Samaritans on 116123 / or email: [email protected].
Main image by @tildalindstam on Instagram
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