Have you ever noticed how some people’s noses turn red after they’ve had a few drinks? It’s not just a quirky coincidence but a real physiological response to alcohol consumption. A reddened nose is also a frequently observed indication of prolonged alcohol misuse, often referred to as red nose alcohol. This article will explore why drinking alcohol can cause the nose—and sometimes other facial areas—to turn red, look at other changes alcohol can cause to the face, and discuss ways to manage and treat these symptoms.
If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out!
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Why Does Alcohol Turn the Nose Red?
When alcohol causes the nose to turn red, it’s often due to allergic reactions or skin conditions that flare up with heavy drinking. Just like some people notice their nose turns red when they eat certain foods they’re mildly allergic to, a similar reaction can happen with alcohol if they’re sensitive to it.
The redness can also come from an increase in blood flow right under the skin of the nose. When alcohol enters your system, it dilates the blood vessels in your body. This dilation is more pronounced in the face, particularly in the nose, due to its higher concentration of blood vessels.
The redness can be more apparent in some individuals than others due to genetic differences in how bodies metabolize alcohol. Another reason for a red nose might be a skin condition called rhinophyma, which is a type of severe rosacea.
This leads to noticeable changes such as:
These symptoms together make up the classic look of the red nose from alcohol and point to potential health issues linked to regular alcohol use.
- Swelling and irritation around the nose
- Nose becoming larger
- Development of pus-filled bumps that look like pimples
- Purple marks on the skin
- General soreness
These symptoms together make up the classic look of the red nose from alcohol and point to potential health issues linked to regular alcohol use.
Additional Alcoholic Face Changes
Chronic alcohol consumption significantly affects the circulatory system, particularly the blood vessels. Alcohol causes these vessels to dilate, especially in areas with thinner skin like the face and nose, leading to a puffier, fuller appearance. This increased blood flow can result in visible swelling and redness across the facial skin.
Over time, this persistent swelling combined with the expanded blood vessels can create red blotches or streaks, which may darken to purple as the vessels weaken and break, mimicking the appearance of bruising. This damage is not just cosmetic but also structural, affecting the skin’s texture, which often becomes bumpy and warm to the touch due to enlarged pores.
Furthermore, any pre-existing skin conditions like acne scars can become more pronounced due to this swelling. Notably, the nose may appear larger due to merged bumps and thickening skin, a common feature in those with long-term alcohol use disorders. These changes highlight the profound impact of alcohol on facial appearance and overall skin health.
How to Get Rid of Alcohol Red Nose
Alcohol-induced redness in the face, often seen as a flushed nose, can fade as alcohol leaves the body. This flushing is common when drinking, but tends to disappear by morning due to the body reducing excess blood flow under the skin.
However, prolonged alcohol misuse can lead to lasting changes in facial appearance, including a persistent red nose. This damage can become permanent, especially if rhinophyma develops.
Minimizing alcohol intake is the most straightforward way to reduce the redness in the nose from drinking. For occasional drinkers, cooling the skin and hydration can help minimize redness. Over-the-counter antihistamines may help reduce flushing for some individuals, though they should be used with caution and not as a regular remedy for symptoms caused by alcohol use disorders.

Treatment Options Available
For those who experience severe or persistent redness due to alcohol consumption, several treatment options are available. At Kemah Palms Recovery, we offer support for managing symptoms of rosacea and rhinophyma through various therapies.
Our skilled team can help you with the cosmetic effects of alcohol-related facial changes. We can also assist with any health issues you may have. If you struggle with alcohol abuse or substance use disorder, seeking help is essential. At Kemah Palms Recovery, we provide a compassionate environment to begin your journey to recovery.
Considering the options, treatments for red nose alcohol could include:
- Alcohol Detox: Eliminating alcohol from the body can gradually restore the face’s appearance, though it may take months for noticeable improvements as the body heals from alcohol damage.
- Medication: Treatments such as skin creams and antibiotics can address rhinophyma, but their effectiveness diminishes if drinking continues.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT, alongside supervised detox, helps prevent relapse and supports recovery.
- Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy diet and exercise regimen complements alcohol detox in promoting healing.
- Alcohol Rehab Treatment: Continuing sobriety through counseling, group therapy, and holistic approaches in our Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Outpatient programs, settings aids in effectively treating red nose alcohol..
Call Us At Kemah Palms Recovery Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with issues related to alcohol use, including physical symptoms like a red nose from drinking, help is available. At Kemah Palms Recovery, located near Houston, Texas, we provide comprehensive support and treatment for alcohol-related conditions. Call us or head over to our admissions page to learn more about our programs and how we can help you or your loved one on the path to recovery.