New app shows you the toll drinking has on your looks

January 21, 2013

New app shows you the toll drinking has on your looks
New app shows you the toll drinking has on your looks

You've probably heard that smoking accelerates signs of aging, but there's another habit that can make you look older than you actually are - drinking. Unfortunately, some people may not be aware of the adverse affects alcohol can have on one's physical appearance, but the Scottish government is hoping to change that with the release of a new app that makes it painfully apparent what years of drinking can do to one's face, reports the Today Show.

The app or computer program is called the Drinking Mirror. Users can upload a picture of their face, enter the amount of alcohol they consume per week, and then receive a computer-generated image of what they may look like if they keep up the habit. According to the news source, individuals who peer into the Drinking Mirror may see an image of themselves looking heavier, with a wrinklier and ruddier face.

"Alcohol undoubtedly has an effect on our appearance in the short and long term. As well as causing bloating and dark circles under your eyes, alcohol dries out the skin and can lead to wrinkles and premature aging," Dr. Samantha Robson, a skin specialist, told The Daily Mail.

While quitting drinking may be able to slow down the early signs of aging that come with the habit, cessation may not be enough to undo the damage that's already evident. Fortunately, there are treatments available for people who are discouraged by facial wrinkles, whether they are caused by alcohol consumption, smoking or the natural aging process.

Botox is one option that has become quite popular in recent years. The injectable cosmetic can reduce the signs of aging by freezing the muscles that cause wrinkles around the mouth, eyes and forehead. Facelift surgery can also help restore a more youthful look to the face.


The mission of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ASAPS, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to www.surgery.org

Search by location (Zip, City, or Country)

Related Articles

Why your arms don't look the way you want them to

May 16, 2013 - When you imagine the perfect gym body, you probably picture bulging biceps, round shoulders and taut forearms.

Five little changes that can make a big difference in how you look

May 15, 2013 - The change of the seasons may inspire you to undergo a transformation, but going through a makeover is time-consuming and oftentimes overwhelming.

Study: Gold in your skincare products accelerates aging

May 7, 2013 - They say that not all that glitters is gold, and not all gold is good for you.

Battle of the sexes: How the faces of men and women age differently

May 6, 2013 - One of the joys of being in a committed relationship is growing old together, but men and women don't always have the same experiences while aging.

The foods that make you age faster

May 3, 2013 - If you've been reading any healthy living magazines or news articles over the past few years, you've probably seen your fair share of lists touting foods that contain antioxidants and other age-defying nutrients.

Latest Articles

The wrong reasons to get plastic surgery

May 23, 2013 - An aesthetic surgery procedure can help you boost your confidence and get the body you've always dreamed of, but the decision to go under the knife should not be one entered into lightly.

Woman sought for administering plastic surgery without a license

May 22, 2013 - A disturbing case out of New York should serve as a reminder to those considering plastic surgery that it's always important to seek out the services of a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Even minimally invasive procedures like Botox injections must be carried out by licensed, trained individuals, or else patients could experience disastrous results.

Summer safety tips for everyone

May 21, 2013 - This time of year, the media is chock full of skincare tips.

Laser treatment for tattoo trouble

May 17, 2013 - It’s easy to understand the impulsive rush of enthusiasm that can send one running to the tattoo parlor. It’s also easy to understand how ‘life’ can intervene in the form of new relationships, new careers and new directions, so that the once glorious tattoo becomes an embarrassment.

Why your arms don't look the way you want them to

May 16, 2013 - When you imagine the perfect gym body, you probably picture bulging biceps, round shoulders and taut forearms.

About ASAPS
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is recognized as the world’s leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body.  ASAPS is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; active members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International active members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.

Website: www.surgery.org
Follow ASAPS on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ASAPS
Become a fan of ASAPS on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AestheticSociety
Become a member of Project Beauty: www.projectbeauty.com
Locate a plastic surgeon in your area:  http://www.surgery.org/consumers/find-a-plastic-surgeon

Copyright © 2009-2012 ASAPS. All Rights Reserved.