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Red cheeks after a single alcoholic drink? ‘Asian flush’ is your body sending you a message

  • Some East Asians – and others – have an intolerance to alcohol that causes blushing cheeks, nausea, itching and inflammation
  • A genetic mutation is responsible for the flush, and there’s no known cure, but it could be a blessing in disguise, lowering the risk of cancers from alcohol

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Some East Asians – and non-Asians – have an intolerance to alcohol that causes blushing cheeks, nausea, itching and inflammation. Photo: Shuttersock

Some East Asians get a reaction to alcohol called “Asian flush”.

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It’s caused by a genetic mutation inhibiting the breakdown of toxins in alcoholic beverages. As a result, the redness, nausea and inflammation can make drinking an isolating experience.

For games, we have beer cans. For parties, rounds of tequila shots. For work events, wine and cocktails. Alcohol is the social lubricant, easing anxiety and guaranteeing fun. But as I slowly sip on whatever concoction slips past my lips, there’s only one thought plaguing my mind: my face.

It’s burning. It’s itching. I can feel a rash-like discomfort spreading across my cheeks and towards my neck. Physically unbearable and uncomfortable.

Alcohol flush syndrome (Asian flush) affects about 40 per cent of East Asians, and even one drink can set it off. Photo: Shutterstock
Alcohol flush syndrome (Asian flush) affects about 40 per cent of East Asians, and even one drink can set it off. Photo: Shutterstock

Emotionally it’s worse. I hear the murmurs and see the side-eyed glances clock my splotchy complexion. “Do I look drunk?” I wander around my colleagues. “Am I noticeably red,” I frantically ask my friends, ready to douse my cheeks in heavy-duty concealer.

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Scientifically, this phenomenon is called alcohol flush syndrome. More colloquially, it’s known as “Asian flush”, though it can affect non-Asians as well.

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