Friday, 24 October 2025
Medical director reveals how soda accelerates skin aging and causes premature wrinkles during party season. Expert explains the science behind soda’s damaging effects on collagen and shares healthier alternatives for festive gatherings. Expert urges people to reconsider their beverage choices this holiday season to protect their skin
It’s almost party season, and whether you’re at a work gathering, family dinner, or New Year’s celebration, there’s one drink that shows up everywhere: soda. The fizzy favourite seems harmless enough, being refreshing, sweet, and readily available at every festive table. But according to one skincare expert, that innocent-looking glass could be doing serious damage to your complexion.
Dr. Kevin Hayavi, Medical Director and Managing Partner at Beverly Hills Physicians, a premier medical group offering comprehensive beauty and wellness services across Southern California, is sounding the alarm about soda’s effects on skin health.
“People don’t realize that what they’re drinking at parties can show up on their face weeks later,” he warns. “Soda might be the most popular mixer during the holidays, but it’s also one of the worst things you can put in your body if you care about keeping your skin looking youthful.”
Below, Dr. Hayavi explains why it’s time to rethink that fizzy drink, and what to reach for instead.
Why Soda Is Sabotaging Your Skin
The problem with soda isn’t just the sugar, though that’s a major factor. When you drink beverages high in glucose and fructose, these sugars bind to the proteins in your skin through a process called glycation. This creates harmful compounds that directly attack collagen and elastin, the structural proteins that keep your skin firm and smooth.
“Think of collagen and elastin as the scaffolding of your skin,” Dr. Hayavi explains. “When sugar molecules attach to these proteins, they become stiff and malformed. Your body can’t repair them properly anymore, which leads to sagging, wrinkles, and that dehydrated look that makes you appear older than you are.”
But even diet sodas aren’t off the hook. While they may skip the sugar, they’re loaded with chemicals that can be just as damaging. Ingredients like phosphorus and artificial sweeteners can trigger inflammation throughout the body, including in your skin. This inflammation breaks down healthy tissue and accelerates the aging process.
“Diet versions might save you calories, but they’re still introducing compounds that stress your cells,” Dr. Hayavi notes. “Phosphorus, potassium, and caffeine found in a lot of sodas can leach minerals from your bones and interfere with your body’s natural repair systems. Your skin suffers as a result.”
The damage doesn’t stop there. Regular soda consumption can leave your complexion looking dull and tired. The combination of dehydration, inflammation, and glycation creates a perfect storm for premature aging. Fine lines appear earlier, skin loses its bounce, and that healthy glow becomes harder to maintain.
Skin-Friendly Festive Drinks To Try Instead
The good news? You don’t have to give up all fizzy drinks to protect your skin. Dr. Hayavi lists the following alternatives that won’t leave your complexion paying the price.
Water remains the best choice for healthy, glowing skin, but Dr. Hayavi understands that’s not always exciting at a celebration. “If you’re craving something with bubbles, try sparkling water with fresh fruit,” he suggests. “You get the fizz without the sugar overload. Add some berries or citrus slices, and it looks festive too.”
Kombucha offers another option for those who want carbonation with benefits. This fermented tea contains probiotics that support gut health, which can positively impact your skin. Just check the label, as some brands add unnecessary sugar.
Herbal teas like green tea or chamomile are loaded with antioxidants that actually protect your skin from damage. “Antioxidants fight the free radicals that break down collagen,” Dr. Hayavi points out. “You’re giving your skin ammunition to defend itself.”
For those who enjoy a festive cocktail, Dr. Hayavi recommends mixing spirits with club soda and fresh ingredients rather than sugary sodas or pre-made mixers. “A vodka soda with lime has a fraction of the sugar, and you’re not exposing your skin to all those chemicals,” he says.
Dr. Kevin Hayavi, Medical Director and Managing Partner at Beverly Hills Physicians, commented:
“The upcoming festive season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your skin’s health. What people don’t often realize is that the choices they make at holiday parties can have lasting effects on their complexion. Soda might seem like a harmless indulgence, but the combination of sugar, chemicals, and inflammatory ingredients creates real damage at the cellular level.
“Your skin is working hard during this time of year, dealing with cold weather, indoor heating, late nights, and stress. Adding soda to the mix just makes things worse. The good news is that small changes make a big difference. Swapping out just one or two sodas for water or kombucha each day can help your skin stay hydrated and resilient.
“This holiday season, think of your beverage choices as part of your skincare routine. Your future self will thank you when you’re looking at photos years from now and your skin still looks fresh and healthy.”
