Professor Ahmet Metin, Head of the Department of Dermatology and Venereal Diseases at PAU Hospitals, stated the following:

“When discussing the effects of smoking and alcohol on our skin, I believe the issue should not be evaluated solely in terms of wrinkles or aesthetic concerns. In dermatology practice, many skin findings we observe are actually external reflections of health problems developing deep within the body. A significant number of my patients consult me because of dull skin, dryness, signs of premature aging, or hair loss. However, in many cases, these problems stem from the damage caused over the years by habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Smoking primarily affects our blood vessels. When the vascular structure is impaired, sufficient oxygen and nutrients cannot reach the skin. As a result, the skin loses its vitality, becomes thinner, and gradually develops a pale and dull appearance. In some smokers, we observe that the skin takes on an almost waxy appearance. Due to impaired blood circulation, the skin becomes dry, flaky, and its ability to regenerate decreases. Because the same process also affects hair follicles, hair loss may occur. Nails become more fragile, and wounds that should heal normally take much longer to close. We can especially encounter chronic wounds on the legs and feet. All of these are among the primary causes of premature skin aging. The effects of smoking are not limited to the skin alone. It can also cause eye problems associated with certain thyroid diseases to progress more severely. For this reason, I particularly emphasize to some of my patients that one of the most important steps in treatment is quitting smoking. In addition, problems related to vitamin C deficiency are more common among smokers, and susceptibility to gum diseases may increase.”

Professor Ahmet Metin: “One of the Greatest Enemies of Prematurely Aging Skin Is Smoking and Alcohol.”

Emphasizing that the effects of alcohol on the skin are also highly significant, Professor Ahmet Metin noted that scientific studies have shown an association between regular alcohol consumption and certain skin cancers. Pointing out that alcohol can cause damage to DNA, the genetic material of cells, Professor Metin said:

“At the same time, it accelerates cellular aging by increasing the production of free radicals and reduces the effectiveness of the immune system. As a result, the skin’s ability to protect and repair itself weakens. In clinical practice, we particularly observe that alcohol consumption can trigger flare-ups in individuals with psoriasis. In some patients, sudden facial flushing, episodes of hives, and various allergic reactions may also occur following alcohol consumption. In addition, long-term alcohol use can affect the nervous system, leading to loss of sensation in the feet and paving the way for serious foot problems. Perhaps one of the most overlooked effects of alcohol is that it causes nutritional deficiencies. When the body does not receive the vitamins and minerals it needs, some of the earliest signs appear on the skin. Cracks at the corners of the lips, sores inside the mouth, a burning sensation on the tongue, hair loss, brittle nails, and various skin rashes may all be indicators of these deficiencies. Vitamin C deficiency in particular disrupts collagen production, accelerating skin aging and delaying wound healing. One common observation I have made among many of my patients is this: the damage caused by smoking and alcohol is not limited to aesthetic changes visible on the surface of the skin. Dull, lifeless, and prematurely aging skin is actually a warning signal from our blood vessels, cells, and immune system. Before focusing on creams, cosmetic procedures, or supplements for healthy and youthful-looking skin, the most important issue we need to pay attention to is our lifestyle habits. Staying away from smoking and alcohol is one of the most important steps in protecting not only our skin but our entire body.” he said.