Sometimes, we’re not even sure which comes first; the tree going up or the unannounced outbreak of acne. And we’re sorry to drop the C bomb so early this year, but Christmas skincare is a serious business, and as such, requires a little foresight if you’re to look glowing and radiant throughout December.
According to research from LUSTRE Pure Light, an innovative company offering blue light treatment for acne, 30% of people admit they actively avoid social situations because of skin problems. Additionally, out of the 1871 acne sufferers surveyed to find out how their conditions affects their confidence, 1 in 5 have cancelled a date because of acne.
However, no-one should miss out on the Christmas festivities or a possible holiday romance because of bad skin. So if your skin isn’t quite ready to sparkle in tune with your sequins, there are things you can do to get your visage prepped and ready. These are those; our 5 IDEAL skincare tips in preparation for the Christmas season.
HAPPY HYDRATION HOLIDAYS
You may think hydration is only important during the hotter months. However, it’s crucial you hydrate just as much during the winter season, particularly when the long, boozy nights are rising in frequency and enthusiasm. Not only is water good for your health overall, but in winter time, it can often be even more necessary as water vapour is lost through your breath, causing you to lose valuable moisture.
Even if you drink your eight glasses of water a day, your skin is still at risk of dehydration. Make sure you balance out diuretics like caffeine and alcohol with plenty of water, and opt for decaffeinated coffee or tea. Party season is a long, dehydrated slog, only made more taxing on your skin by all the sweet treats and fatty foods; balance things out with some good ol’ Adam’s ale.
BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Your environment also plays a major role in keeping your skin properly moisturised and looking radiant. During the marathon run of parties when you’re consistently stepping in and out of the cold (whether that’s for your annual cigarette or smooch under the mistletoe), you’re exposed to changing blasts of hot, dry air then cold, which can be particularly damaging. Sustain a sufficient amount of moisture in the air in your home, when at home, with a humidifier or dehumidifier, and prevent your skin from drying out. Alternatively, carry a face mist spray which contains hyaluronic acid and squalane for the occasional refresh.
GET ENOUGH SUNLIGHT
Sure, the Christmas season represents cosy nights indoors next to the fire, and later than usual nights. But you may notice your skin getting worse from being cooped up indoors and away from the healing powers of the sun. This lack of Vitamin D can lead to more spots and larger bags under your eyes. Yep, sunlight is your ticket to making sure your skin improves, but it can be hard to find in the great British winter.
Enact a few small changes to arrest this. Change up your commute, perhaps getting off a stop earlier and walking the extra stretch, to soak up a bit of sun. Go for a stroll in your lunch break. Swap the gym for an outdoor run. And if the sun really isn’t shining, make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin D from your diet; that’s more fatty fish, cheese, egg yolks and orange fruit.
Speaking of light, if you didn’t know already, blue light is a natural remedy for acne, effectively reducing the appearance of acne without the side effects of drugs and medicines. The guys at LUSTRE has created the portable Pure Light Solo device for just £79.00. It works by killing the bacteria that causes acne naturally, and is a proven technology designed to allow you to treat your spots and acne at home. Worth the investment? We think so.
DON’T SLEEP IN YOUR MAKEUP
During the Christmas party season it’s easy to fall asleep without taking off your make-up, but this is a cardinal sin of skincare, make no mistake. It clogs up your pores and can increase the risk of acne and blackheads developing. Although it may seem tedious at the time, making sure to cleanse before bed will save your skin in the long term. A good cleanser will keep your skin looking radiant; try a vitamin-rich product with lots of Vitamin A, which will do your skin the world of good.
SLEEP RIGHT
While we’re on the subject of those Zzzeds, it’s vital to get them during December. Rushing from pantomime to party, the busy festive season can disrupt our sleep pattern massively. Going to bed late consistently, indulging a little more than usual, all the way down to waking up with excitable children (or waking up excitable yourself) eagerly awaiting Father Christmas…it can all lead to bags under the eyes and a tired looking complexion. A refreshing eye cream will do wonders to prevent water loss in the skin and improve elasticity, therefore helping to reduce the appearance of dark circles and fine lines.