What causes red spots on the face after drinking alcohol?

Generally, red spots appearing on the face after drinking alcohol may be caused by factors such as alcohol-induced blood vessel dilation, irritation from alcohol metabolites, alcohol allergy, worsening of seborrheic dermatitis, or rosacea. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Alcohol-induced blood vessel dilation

After entering the body, alcohol stimulates facial capillaries, causing them to dilate and become congested, resulting in scattered red spots. Immediately stop drinking, apply a cool towel gently to the face to constrict blood vessels, drink plenty of warm water to accelerate alcohol metabolism, and avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol again.

2. Irritation from alcohol metabolites

Alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde in the body, which is irritating and can damage the facial skin and mucous membranes, leading to red spots. Reduce alcohol intake, consume light foods while drinking, and eat more water-rich fruits such as pears and watermelon after drinking to promote acetaldehyde elimination.

3. Alcohol allergy

The immune system identifies alcohol as a foreign substance and triggers an immune response, releasing histamine that causes red spots on the face accompanied by itching. Complete abstinence from alcohol is required. Follow medical advice to take medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine syrup, or ebastine tablets, and avoid scratching the affected area.

4. Worsening of seborrheic dermatitis

Alcohol stimulates sebaceous glands to produce more oil, exacerbating inflammatory responses in seborrheic dermatitis and causing inflammatory red spots on the face. Stop drinking immediately, follow medical advice to use ketoconazole cream, tacrolimus ointment, and vitamin B6 tablets, and keep the face clean and dry.

5. Rosacea

Alcohol is a well-established trigger for rosacea, activating facial blood vessels and inflammatory cells, leading to persistent red spots. Strict abstinence from alcohol is essential. Follow medical guidance to use metronidazole gel, azelaic acid cream, and doxycycline capsules, and avoid spicy and irritating foods.

In daily life, control the frequency and amount of alcohol consumption—ideally avoiding alcohol altogether; maintain a bland diet and reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods; ensure proper facial moisturizing and sun protection, avoiding excessive cleansing; after red spots appear, avoid hot compresses and use of irritating skincare products.