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Ulrika Jonsson, Alcohol & Sun Damage: What Midlife Skin Really Needs to Thrive
Recently, TV presenter Ulrika Jonsson, 57, hit back at ageist trolls who criticised her appearance following a podcast interview. In response, she posted a bare-faced selfie wearing a sun hat, captioned: “Making people feel sh*t doesn’t make you a hero!”
At Fiji Skin Clinic, we admire her honesty. Her openness around ageing, alcohol and sun exposure reflects the reality of many of our wonderful clients. And it raises a very real question:
How much do alcohol and sun exposure affect our skin as we age?
Alcohol and Sun Exposure: What’s Really Happening to Your Skin
1. Alcohol Dehydrates and Weakens the Skin Barrier
Even a few drinks can leave skin looking dry, puffy, or dull. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it draws moisture out of your body. This dehydrates the skin and makes it more vulnerable to damage from other sources like the sun.
2. Alcohol Lowers Your Skin’s Natural Defences
Scientific studies have shown that alcohol can make your skin more sensitive to sunburn. So, the day after drinking even in typical UK weather—your skin may be more prone to burning and inflammation.
3. It Can Increase the Risk of Skin Cancer
According to Cancer Research UK, alcohol contributes to around 17,000 cancer cases each year in the UK. While people commonly associate this with breast or liver cancer, fewer realise:
Even moderate alcohol intake can raise your risk of developing skin cancer, especially when combined with UV exposure.
A large European study, including UK participants, found that people who consumed more than one small drink per day had a significantly higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma — the most dangerous type of skin cancer!
Sun Damage Isn’t Just a Holiday Problem
It’s easy to assume that sun damage only happens abroad, but even cloudy days in the UK can lead to long-term skin damage. UV rays break down collagen and elastin—the proteins that keep skin firm and youthful.
Common Signs of Sun-Damaged Skin:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Pigmentation or age spots
- Redness or broken capillaries
- Thinning or uneven skin texture
When alcohol is added to the mix, the skin’s ability to repair and protect itself becomes even more compromised.
Be Proud of Your Skin—But Also Protect It
Ulrika’s unapologetic response to criticism reminds us that skin is not meant to be flawless. It’s meant to be real.
At the same time, you can embrace your age while taking steps to care for your skin. Prevention doesn’t mean perfection—it means making small, meaningful changes that help your skin stay stronger, healthier, and more resilient.
Seven Simple Skin Habits to Protect Midlife Skin
Try This | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
Keep alcohol below 14 units per week | Less alcohol means reduced inflammation, fewer flare-ups, and lower cancer risk. |
Alternate each drink with water. | Staying hydrated supports your skin’s barrier and improves its healing ability. |
Wear SPF 30 or higher daily. | Even in the UK, UVA and UVB rays are strong enough to cause damage. Sunscreen is essential. |
Reapply sunscreen every two hours | Especially if you’re outdoors, sweating, or wearing makeup. |
Use Vitamin C serum in the morning | Helps brighten skin, reduce pigmentation and neutralise sun damage. |
Use Vitamin A at night. | If your skin can tolerate it, this helps boost collagen and fade sun damage. |
Take alcohol-free days or weeks. | Giving your body (and skin) a break can noticeably improve hydration and radiance. |
You’re Not Alone…
Many of our clients in their 40s, 50s and 60s share the same concerns:
“I just want to feel confident without makeup.”
“I wish I’d looked after my skin better when I was younger.”
“Well, I want to care for my skin, but I don’t know where to start.”
Our advice? It’s never too late. Your skin can heal, strengthen, and improve when given the right support.
What You Can Do Today
- Be inspired by Ulrika’s confidence, but also take action for yourself.
- Be sun-smart. Apply at least 2-3 finger lengths of sunscreen daily, even when staying indoors or in overcast weather.
- Be mindful of your alcohol habit.
- Prioritise treatments and products that support long-term skin health.
💡 Did you know even blue light from laptops, TVs, and mobile screens can age the skin?
Ready to Take Back Control of Your Skin?
At Fiji Skin Clinic, we specialise in helping clients undo the visible effects of past sun damage, dehydration, and collagen loss. From laser rejuvenation to targeted pigmentation treatments, we offer expert-led solutions for real skin concerns.
Whether you’re starting fresh or continuing your journey, we’re here to help.
Ready to start your skin journey?
Book your consultation today.
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