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Alcohol and acne
What does research say?: While I found no published research specifically attempting to link alcohol with acne, researchers have performed several studies on the affects of alcohol on hormone levels in humans. Hormones are an important factor in acne development, so this research is worth a look. Several studies of both male and female humans who are “currently using” alcohol show both testosterone and estrogen levels higher than the control group. Two other studies showed the opposite--decreased testosterone. The first of these two studies used a cohort of people described as people engaging in “heavy acute drinking". The second study showed decreased testosterone levels in physically active male soldiers who are regular drinkers. While the specifics vary, we can see an overall trend toward alcohol affecting hormone balance. We do not, however, have enough evidence at this time to draw a causative link between alcohol and acne. More research is required.
Stress: Overuse of any drug, including alcohol, can cause stress. Drinking too much can leave one’s life off course, and in severe cases can cause people their jobs, friends, and family. All of these outcomes are stress inducing. We know that stress and acne are related, so this is something to think about.
Missing your daily regimen: I have received many emails from people saying they got too drunk and missed their regimen, only to then break out within the next two weeks. Missing even one application of your daily regimen can lead to breakouts.
Irritation: In order to prevent acne, it is important to avoid irritating one’s skin. Alcohol acutely affects motor skills. A person is simply not as careful when under the influence of alcohol. This can lead to increased irritation of the skin.
References
Martin CA, Mainous AG 3rd, et al. “Alcohol use in adolescent females: correlates with estradiol and testosterone.” The American Journal on Addictions.” 1999 Winter;8(1):9-14.
Sarkola T, Eriksson CJ. “Testosterone increases in men after a low dose of alcohol.” Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. 2003 Apr;27(4):682-5.
Venkat KK, Arora MM, et al. “Effect of alcohol consumption on bone mineral density and hormonal parameters in physically active male soldiers.” Bone. 2009 May 18.
