Banning the Booze? Your Hair will Thank You…

After a summer of fun and partying, many people begin to consider a break from the booze as they prepare for the colder months. Sober October was introduced in 2014 as a fundraising campaign encouraging people to go alcohol-free to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. Since its inception, the month-long campaign has not only provided vital funds for those fighting cancer but has proven invaluable for encouraging people to change their lifestyle habits.

We sat down with Alice Dawkins, Hair Expert at Milk + Blush, to find out what a period of not drinking can do for your locks…

1. Restores Hydration:

As alcohol is a diuretic, it promotes water loss through sweating and urination, which can result in you becoming dehydrated. When you’re dehydrated, your mane suffers as there is an insufficient supply of water to the hair shaft and cells, causing your hair and scalp to become dry. In turn, this can make you prone to dandruff, breakage, split ends and even lead to hair loss.

By giving up drinking for a bit, you’re giving your locks a fighting chance to rehydrate and regenerate. Add a nourishing hair mask once or twice a week for an extra burst of moisture to give your hair the pamper it deserves.

2. Boosts Nutrients and Reduces Hair Loss:

To stay healthy, hair requires a continuous supply of nutrients, including vitamins A, B, C and D, as well as Zinc, Biotin, Iron and Protein. However, according to several studies, excessive consumption of alcohol has been known to increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies as it reduces micronutrient absorption.  Not only can a nutritional deficiency result in hair loss, but drinking might see you indulge in unhealthy food choices too.

Take the time off to improve your diet by ensuring you’re eating foods rich in Protein, Iron, Omega-3, Vitamins A, C & E, Biotin, Zinc and Selenium. This includes salmon, red meat, nuts and seeds, sweet potatoes, milk, eggs, leafy greens and plenty of fruit and veg. By filling your body with the essential nutrients, you can encourage strong regrowth and prevent future hair loss or weakness.

3. Stops Premature Ageing:

It’s no secret that alcohol is a common trigger for social smoking and has been found to increase the risk of hair loss and premature greying. Inhaling nicotine can reduce the circulation of blood around the body, restricting the oxygen that is needed to promote hair growth. It can also damage the DNA in our cells, which can affect the hair follicles at the root and interrupt the hair’s ability to produce melanin during its growth cycle.

While you might not be influenced to smoke when drinking, it’s worth noting what alcohol-related social habits can do to your hair’s appearance.

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