How alcohol affects the skin

Although the occasional glass of wine won't age your skin, unfortunately, regularly imbibing will. This is particularly true if you drink before going to bed.

As we age, the skin retains less moisture. Since alcohol is a diuretic, it further deprives the skin of moisture, while simultaneously causing the small blood vessels to dilate and become more porous. This porosity causes leakage of fluids, which in turn cause puffiness, especially around the eyes. (This is different from the moisture that is retained in the lower epidermis and dermis, which helps the skin look plump and fresh.) When you are lying down, the leaking fluids have no chance to drain downwards under the effect of gravity. Constant puffing up and dehydration of the skin can lead to early superficial wrinkling.

Since women process alcohol differently from men, it stays around in our systems longer. (This is because alcohol is stored in fat cells, and women generally have more fat cells than men.)

So what should you do if a social occasion results in too-late drinking? Have a couple of glasses of water. This will help flush the alcohol from your body. Adding an extra pillow when you retire will help drain fluids from your face.

Alcohol also inhibits the body's absorption of vitamin A and C, which are integral to a healthy, firm and youthful skin.