What causes breakouts on the face after drinking alcohol, and what should be done about it?

Generally, developing bumps on the face after drinking alcohol may be caused by factors such as alcohol-induced blood vessel dilation, increased sebum production due to alcohol, alcoholic acne, alcohol-triggered contact dermatitis, or alcohol-exacerbated rosacea. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to determine the underlying cause and, under a doctor's guidance, improve the condition through general management, medication, and other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Alcohol-induced blood vessel dilation: Alcohol causes rapid facial vasodilation, triggering local inflammatory responses that lead to red bumps. Immediately stop drinking, apply a cold compress using a towel-wrapped ice pack to the face for 10 minutes to reduce swelling, avoid scratching, and subsequently use a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer.

2. Alcohol-aggravated sebum secretion: Alcohol affects hormone levels, stimulating excessive sebaceous gland activity, which can clog pores and result in bumps. The day after drinking, cleanse the face with an oil-control facial wash, reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, maintain regular sleep patterns to prevent hormonal imbalances, and lower the risk of abnormal sebum production.

3. Alcoholic acne: Acetaldehyde, a metabolite of alcohol, irritates hair follicles and triggers acne outbreaks, often presenting as slightly swollen, inflamed bumps. Patients should follow medical advice to apply benzoyl peroxide gel, adapalene gel, or clindamycin gel after daily cleansing in the morning and evening, and avoid squeezing the bumps.

4. Alcohol-induced contact dermatitis: Allergic reactions to alcohol or additives in alcoholic beverages activate the immune system, causing bumps accompanied by itching and a burning sensation. Patients should take antihistamines such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine capsules, or fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets as prescribed, identify the allergen, and avoid consuming alcoholic drinks containing known allergens.

5. Alcohol-induced worsening of rosacea: Alcohol stimulates facial nerves and blood vessels, aggravating inflammation in rosacea. Bumps appear light red and are often accompanied by visible capillary dilation. Patients should use metronidazole gel, azelaic acid cream, or doxycycline tablets as directed by a physician, and avoid strong alcoholic beverages such as white liquor and red wine, as well as spicy and irritating foods.

Before drinking, consume a moderate amount of food to line the stomach and slow alcohol absorption. After drinking, drink plenty of warm water to promote alcohol metabolism, and avoid using irritating skincare products. When going outdoors, practice proper sun protection to minimize UV exposure on inflamed skin, thereby reducing the frequency of facial bumps after alcohol consumption through scientifically sound skin care.