With the holidays approaching, it’s time for festive get-togethers, office parties, and back-to-back day and night events. As you plan your outfits and write out your gift list, don't forget about the most important accessory: your skin. The combination of colder weather, rich foods, and a busier schedule can take a toll on your complexion. In this guide, we’ll give you skincare tips on how to maintain a radiant glow throughout the holiday season.
How Do You Keep Your Skin Hydrated?
Cold winter air and indoor heating are notorious for stripping your skin of moisture, leaving it feeling dry, tight, and looking dull. To counteract dryness, prioritize hydration from the inside out. Well hydrated skin feels soft, looks supple, and has a beautiful glow.
Drink Plenty of Water
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your skin hydrated is to drink plenty of water—aim for at least eight glasses a day. If you don't like plain water, try infusing it with lemon, cucumber, or mint for a festive twist.
Switch Your Moisturizer
The lightweight moisturizer that worked great in the spring and summer months usually isn’t enough to protect your skin from the winter chill. It's best to switch to a thicker moisturizer during the winter that is hydrating and has skin barrier repairing ingredients.
Apply your moisturizer to damp skin immediately after cleansing to seal in as much water as possible. For an extra boost, add a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid to your skincare routine before you apply moisturizer.
Exfoliate Regularly
Over time, dead skin cells can accumulate on the surface of your skin, leading to a dull, uneven skin tone. Exfoliating regularly clears away buildup to reveal brighter, smoother skin, while also giving you the perfect base for flawless makeup application.
Start by exfoliating one to two times a week. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin's natural barrier and cause redness and sensitivity, so listen to your skin and adjust how often you exfoliate.
Lip Treatment
Flaky, chapped lips can distract from your glowing skin, so it’s important to have a nourishing lip balm to keep them hydrated. Have a balm with you at all times to reapply throughout the day, especially before heading out into the cold.
How Do You Protect Your Skin from Environmental Stressors?
Your skin is faced with environmental stressors everyday, and during the holidays, this can be amplified by factors like travel, less sleep, and UV exposure—yes, even in the winter. Protecting your skin is how you maintain its health and radiance.
Wear Sunscreen Year-Round
The sun's UV rays—which are responsible for premature aging are present all year long and can penetrate through clouds and windows. Even on the grayest winter days, you need to remember to wear sunscreen. Finish your morning skincare routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. This simple step protects your skin and helps to maintain a youthful appearance.
Antioxidants for Skin
Antioxidants help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Adding a serum to your routine gives your skin an extra layer of defense and helps keep it healthy.
Choose a serum with vitamin C because it’s a powerful antioxidant that brightens your complexion and supports collagen production for firmer, healthier skin. Apply the vitamin C serum in the morning after cleansing and before your moisturizer and sunscreen for better protection throughout the day.
What is the Best Holiday Skincare Routine?
Here’s a holiday skincare routine to help your skin glow all season long.
Morning Skincare Routine
- Cleanse with a hydrating cleanser
- Apply an antioxidant serum
- Use a moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides
- Finish with a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen
Evening Skincare Routine
- Double cleanse to remove makeup and impurities, starting with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser
- Exfoliate 1-2 times per week
- Apply a vitamin C serum and then layer a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid on top
- Lock everything in with a nourishing moisturizer⎯don't forget your neck and décolletage
- Apply lip balm before bed
Shop our recommended cleansers, moisturizers, lip treatments, serums, and sunscreens.
Holiday skin prep will give your skin the care it deserves so it looks and feels its best. If you’re wondering what are the best products for your skin type, reserve a skin consultation at Sarah Akram Skincare, serving the Metro DC area.
FAQs
Should I change my skincare routine for holiday travel?
Yes, travel and changing climates can stress your skin, so pack travel-sized essentials, cleanse gently, and use extra hydration.
How can I prevent breakouts during holiday indulgences?
Maintain a consistent skincare routine and avoid touching your face frequently. Drinking plenty of water supports skin health and may help minimize breakouts after indulgent treats for some people.
How do I get a quick glow before a holiday party?
Try a hydrating sheet mask, a refreshing face mist, or a primer. Even a few minutes of prep can help your skin look radiant.
How do I repair tired, dull skin from holiday stress?
Focus on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and antioxidant-rich serums. Adequate sleep, water intake, and stress management are equally important for healthy looking skin.
