If you drink a lot during the day, your radiant summer skin may be out of reach.
DC-area dermatologists say you might want to consider an alternative to your favorite beverage this summer, at least when the sun is at its hottest.
doctor at Kaiser Permanente. "Alcohol is really dehydrating," said Randa Khoury. Khoury is a dermatologist and chief of dermatology for the Mid-Atlantic Permanent Medical Group's Northern Virginia region.
While she admits that the DC area's beaches, boats, rooftop bars, and countless other restaurants are the perfect excuse to say it's five o'clock somewhere, she cautions: soaking up the sun and heat can do more than dehydrate you. This can cause a lot of inflammation.
This inflammation can be detrimental to your skin, especially if you're prone to acne, redness, blemishes, and other conditions. Khoury says the effects can start with the first drink.
"Just because you've had one cocktail, not only are you getting dehydrated a little more, but you're more likely to have another one," she said. "Then we forget things like seeking shade or putting on sunscreen."
Lack of sunscreen can lead to burns, blemishes and even skin cancer, especially during the hot summer days, as harmful UV rays penetrate more frequently and more intensely at this time of year.
Another side effect of these side effects, according to Khoury, is forgetting to drink water throughout the day, which is essential for healthy skin. Recommend a fun alternative.
"Mocktails are a great way to combine the fun and refreshment of a summer cocktail while giving your body and skin what it needs," Khoury tells WTOP.
Blending and pureeing certain foods can actually have positive effects on your skin and body in general, she says.
"Blueberries are great for mixing into drinks and have great antioxidant effects," Khoury said.
She adds that mint and basil have excellent anti-inflammatory properties which, when paired with a soft drink, are just what you need to stay cool while feeling refreshed.
"Skin never forgets," she said. "He has a very long memory and likes to hold grudges."
Whatever you do, she says, do it responsibly this summer. But he adds that the reduction can be felt even with small amounts and only during the day.
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