Credit: Adobe Stock

Disturbing Reason Why Some People’s Skin Turns Red When Drinking Alcohol

The reason why some people’s skin turns red after drinking alcohol has been revealed.

Feeling more relaxed and carefree after drinking alcohol is a common side effect, and the reason it lowers our inhibitions is a generally well understood concept.

But turning red is a lesser-known side effect that has now been explained by medical experts.

Nearly 540 million people worldwide experience the bizarre symptom, but few people know why it occurs.

And while alcohol isn’t beneficial for anyone, and it’s best to avoid drinking in large quantities, it’s particularly bad for those with this condition.

When alcohol is consumed, our liver converts the compounds into acetate, which is much safer for our bodies.

But, for those who suffer with alcohol flush, acetaldehyde lurks around for much longer as the conversion process is a lot slower.

And according to experts, for this reason, people with alcohol flush are at higher risk of the more dangerous effects of alcohol, both immediately and in later life.

But why does it happen?

The build up of acetaldehyde in the body can prompt a histamine response, leading to a range of symptoms.

One includes dilation of the facial blood vessels, causing skin discoloration.

On lighter skin tones, facial flushing may result in visible reddening.

And turning slightly red after a fair few pints may be the reason that some people partake in Dry January.

Research by the University of Sussex found that those taking part in the alcohol-free month significantly improved their health and wellbeing, even six months later.

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Dr. Richard Piper, chief executive of Alcohol Change UK, said: “We know that things are feeling uncertain at the moment, and some of us will be looking for ways to cope.

“Research consistently shows that, for many people who were already drinking heavily, our drinking habits may have taken a turn for the worse.”

He added: “Dry January offers the opportunity for a total reset.

“Sleep better and have more energy, improve your mental health and concentration, look fabulous and get brighter skin, save money, and feel an amazing sense of achievement.”

In terms of preventing alcohol flush, given that the condition is genetic, it’s not really possible.

The only way to prevent the flush and the associated risk of high blood pressure is to avoid or limit alcohol intake entirely.

It’s also important to note that even people who do not have the reaction when drinking alcohol are still at risk of the health implications that drink can cause.

These include high blood pressure, liver disease, cancer, and stomach problems.

Related Article: Flight Attendant Explains Why You Should Never Consume Two Popular Drinks On Plane

Related Article: Doctor Shares Exact Age You Should Stop Drinking Alcohol

Want more stuff like this?

Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox!