Doctor explained why skin burns faster in summer when drinking alcohol

International studies have confirmed what many vacationers have noticed intuitively: consuming alcoholic beverages at the beach significantly increases the risk of sunburn.

As BAKU.WS reports with reference to "Gazeta.ru", leading Russian surgeon Elvin Huseynov stated in an interview that this phenomenon has scientific justification.

According to the specialist, there are several key mechanisms that explain why alcohol makes skin more vulnerable to ultraviolet exposure.

"First of all, alcohol causes blood vessel dilation, which leads to blood flow to the capillaries and skin redness. Many mistakenly take this for the beginning of a tan, but in reality, this is an inflammatory reaction that reduces the skin's natural protection against ultraviolet radiation," the expert explained.

Studies have also shown that ethanol has a pronounced diuretic effect, which contributes to dehydration. As a result, the skin loses moisture, its protective barrier weakens, and the risk of burns increases significantly.

"Alcohol disrupts thermoregulation and reduces the body's sensitivity to high temperatures. The pain threshold is lowered, and a person may not feel that their skin is being burned. In addition, people under the influence of alcohol more often fall asleep on the beach and forget about the need to apply sunscreen," noted Huseynov.

Scientific research conducted in several countries demonstrates that the combination of alcohol and ultraviolet radiation enhances oxidative stress in skin cells. This accelerates the processes of photoaging, destroys collagen and, particularly concerning, with chronic exposure increases the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

To minimize risks, international experts recommend:

- abstaining from alcohol consumption before sun exposure;

- mandatory use of sunscreens with high SPF;

- wearing hats and protective clothing;

- monitoring the body's water balance;

- avoiding prolonged immobile exposure to direct sunlight;

- immediately moving to shade and beginning appropriate treatment if signs of burns appear.

"The combination of alcohol and intense solar radiation poses a serious health hazard. What many take for a quick tan is actually a burn that occurs due to the weakening of the body's natural defense mechanisms. Prevention in this case is much more effective than treating the consequences," emphasized the specialist.