The festive season brings plenty of joy, but it’s not exactly kind to your complexion.
Between central heating, cold air, prosecco, and layers of makeup, it’s no wonder many find themselves desperately searching for last-minute glow solutions.
But leading dermatologists advise that pre-Christmas prep is key. Dr Nora from Rejuvenation Clinic insists the secret to “radiant, party-proof skin” starts well before December arrives.
“Ideally, start four to six weeks before the festive season as this is the time it takes for your skin to go through one ‘skin cycle’ [around five to six weeks] and your hard work to glow through,” she explained. “Consistency always wins over last-minute fixes.”
Leading aesthetic doctor, Dr Ejikeme, echoed this advice. “The earlier the better. If you haven’t been consistent, begin four to six weeks ahead for visible improvements,” she said.
When it comes to achieving that festive glow, both experts agree that moisture trumps makeup every time.
“Hydration is your instant fix,” revealed Dr Nora. “Layer humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, then seal it in with a rich moisturiser.”
Winter weather demands some clever skin care swaps too, with the expert recommending cream-based cleansers over foam varieties, plus richer moisturisers and oils. “Winter air and central heating both strip the barrier,” she noted.
Dr Ejikeme advised prioritising texture changes, recommending richer creams with ceramides or squalane and layering hydrating serums beneath moisturisers to prevent water loss.
‘Hydration is your instant fix. Layer humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, then seal it in with a rich moisturiser’
|
GETTY
She was also keen to remind everyone that “SPF is still essential in winter” for protecting the skin barrier.
As for night-time skin care, it’s tempting to scrub away the evidence after a night of festivities, but both dermatologists warn against harsh treatments.
“Avoid over-cleansing or exfoliating, which can damage the barrier,” Dr Ejikeme cautioned.
“Focus on gentle cleansing, rehydration, and skin recovery. Apply a serum and moisturiser to calm and restore.”
LATEST BEAUTY TIPS AND TRICKS
‘LED masks genuinely support skin health when used consistently’
|
GETTY
Dr Nora also emphasised the importance of being delicate with your skin. “Don’t over-exfoliate! It only worsens irritation and dehydration,” she said.
“Instead, gently cleanse, rehydrate, and replenish with barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides or panthenol. Your skin needs soothing, not stripping.”
Proper makeup removal is equally crucial, with Dr Nora warning that “heavy, long-wear or occlusive formulas can clog pores if not removed properly”.
Criticising the once-over wash, she also insisted that double cleansing is essential – “micellar water alone won’t cut it”.
As for the beauty gadgets and supplements promising miraculous results before Christmas, the experts are team LED.
“LED masks genuinely support skin health when used consistently. There’s solid science behind them,” said Dr Nora. “Ice rollers give short-term depuffing, but they’re more cosmetic than corrective.”
As for supplements, collagen drinks can help, but only if they contain hydrolysed collagen peptides, as this is the only form the body can absorb, the expert explained.
However, she suggested that “omega-3 and zinc supplements tend to do more for your barrier and inflammation long-term”.
Dr Ejikeme also emphasised the importance of clean tools, advising that brushes and sponges need weekly cleaning to prevent breakouts and pigmentation.
Looking for more ways to boost your skin pre-party season? A diet change may be the answer.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, aesthetics doctor Dr Ducu revealed: “What you eat plays a surprisingly important role in skin health.
“Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin C, like oily fish, berries, leafy greens, and citrus, support skin elasticity and repair.”