Will one glass of wine or alcohol once a year trigger an HS flare-up?
The answer varies from person to person. There isn't much research specifically on how occasional, rare alcohol consumption affects HS symptoms. However, we do know that alcohol can be a trigger for some people with HS.
Some myHSteam members have Show Full Answer
Will one glass of wine or alcohol once a year trigger an HS flare-up?
The answer varies from person to person. There isn't much research specifically on how occasional, rare alcohol consumption affects HS symptoms. However, we do know that alcohol can be a trigger for some people with HS.
Some myHSteam members have noticed that alcohol worsens their symptoms. One member shared that they had to cut out alcoholic drinks entirely, while another noticed big breakouts after drinking beer, possibly due to the brewer's yeast.
That said, having one glass of wine once a year is very different from regular drinking. The risk of triggering a flare from such minimal, infrequent consumption is likely much lower than drinking regularly.
Scientists believe alcohol may lead to inflammation, which could trigger HS flares. Additionally, brewer's yeast found in some alcoholic beverages like beer has been linked to worsening HS in some people.
The best approach is to pay attention to your own body. If you decide to have that rare glass of wine, monitor how your skin responds over the following days. Everyone's triggers are different, and what affects one person severely might not bother another at all.
If you're concerned, discuss it with your dermatologist. They can help you weigh the risks based on your specific situation and symptom history.
January 21