From the Guidelines
Alcohol is not recommended for treating oily skin. While it may seem counterintuitive, using alcohol on oily skin can actually worsen the condition over time. According to a study published in Circulation 1, alcohol can dry the skin and diminish electric flow, which may not be directly related to oily skin but highlights the potential harm of using alcohol on the skin.
When considering the management of oily skin, it's essential to focus on gentle and effective ingredients that balance the skin's natural oil production. Some alternatives to alcohol-based products include:
- Gentle cleansers with salicylic acid (1-2%)
- Niacinamide (2-5%)
- Clay-based products that absorb excess oil without disrupting the skin's natural balance
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers to maintain proper hydration and regulate oil production
Using alcohol-based products can strip the skin of its natural oils, triggering the sebaceous glands to produce even more oil as a compensatory mechanism, leading to increased oiliness, irritation, inflammation, and sensitivity 1. Therefore, a consistent skincare routine with gentler ingredients is crucial for effective and healthy long-term management of oily skin.
From the Research
Alcohol and Oily Skin
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that alcohol helps with oily skin 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Oily skin, also known as seborrhea, is a common cosmetic problem characterized by excessive sebum production, giving the appearance of shiny and greasy skin 3.
- Alcohol misuse has been implicated in various skin conditions, including psoriasis, discoid eczema, rosacea, and post-adolescent acne 2, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the relationship between alcohol and oily skin is not well-established, and it is unclear whether alcohol has any beneficial or detrimental effects on oily skin.
Skin Conditions and Alcohol Misuse
- Certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis and discoid eczema, have been shown to be affected by alcohol misuse 2, 4, 6.
- Alcohol misuse may exacerbate these conditions, making them more difficult to treat 2, 6.
- The association between alcohol and skin disease is often under-reported, and alcohol misuse may go undetected in a general clinic unless specifically sought 6.