If you thought you liked booze before, you’re going to love what it can do for your face.
Turns out there are properties in some of your favourite top-shelf alcohols that are great for your skin. From wine and sake, to vodka, absinthe and even beer, slathering booze on your skin isn’t a terrible idea.
That said, we’re not suggesting that you drink it. While these products are actually formulated with alcohol to moisturize, cleanse and regenerate your skin, drinking booze can seriously dehydrate your skin. So next time you feel the urge to reach for that glass of red wine, try one of these beauty products instead.
Red wine
If vino is your go-to drink after a long day at work, think about adding a night cream with resveratrol to your pre-bedtime regime.
Resveratrol is an antioxidant found in red wine that can help regenerate the skin. A 2008 study found that when applied topically, resveratrol can fight against skin disorders and deliver therapeutic effects to the skin.
Cosmetic brand Caudalie is known for its patented Vine Resveratrol used in many of their skin care products. Its anti-aging benefits have been acknowledged by a number of dermatologists who applaud its ability to improve skin quality, firmness and smoothness.
Sake
Another brand that has hopped on the booze-infused beauty bandwagon is Japanese SK-II. Its entire line is inspired by sake – the traditional rice wine available at your favourite sushi joint.
According to SK-II’s website, Pitera, which is derived from a natural fermentation process, is sake’s magical secret ingredient. It’s “full of vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids that work together to allow the skin’s natural surface rejuvenation process to function at its prime.”
And they’re not making this stuff up.
A 2009 study highlights sake’s high anti-oxidant content along with its ability to protect the skin. Skip your trip to the sushi place tonight, and relax with this sake-infused treatment essence instead. It renews the skin’s surface, and made with 90% Pitera, diminishes wrinkles, firms the skin and radiates your complexion.
Vodka
If you’re go-to drink is a Cosmo or a Caesar, this Rasmopolitan body scrub may strike your fancy. Infused with raspberry extract, sugar, rice bran oil and organic vodka the deep-cleansing exfoliator will leave your skin soft and refreshed.
Since vodka is an antiseptic – it has been used to clean wounds for ages – it works to remove dirt and oil, and even minimize pores. But since it has natural astringent properties, it can also dry out the skin. It’s best to use it mixed with hydrating ingredients to get the best benefits.
Absinthe
The Body Shop, known for using raw, natural ingredients recently introduced an entire hand care line made with absinthe extract. Promising refreshing hydration and moisturizing benefits, this boozy cream is worth the hype.
Beer
If you’re more of a beer gal, we’ve got just the thing for you.
In her book Return to Beauty: Old World Recipes for Beautiful Skin, dermatologist Narine Nikogosian notes how the hops in beer have a “relaxing, cleansing effect on this skin.” She recommends a homemade ‘hopped-up sweet potato mask’ for those with normal-to-oily skin.
Czech company Saela, makes a line of products infused with beer, and their hydrating face mask will allow your skin to reap all of its boozy benefits. Created especially for normal, dry and sensitive skin, the mask hydrates, refreshes and soothes your complexion for a soft finish.
So go on, get your booze on.
