The holidays are a time of celebration, but it’s no secret that the busy schedule and changes in routine can be stressful, and that stress can all take a toll on your skin. Maintaining your skin’s natural radiance might take more thought than usual during the winter, but glowing skin this holiday season can still be yours.
Use these five strategies from the dermatologists at Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center in Teaneck, New Jersey, to keep your complexion radiant, resilient, and ready for all the close-ups the season brings.
Colder weather, dry indoor air, and drinking alcohol can all deplete your body’s water balance, and your skin feels it. Be intentional about water intake throughout the day, and aim to drink at about eight 8 oz glasses of water each day.
Complement internal hydration with a strong moisturizing regimen, too. Look for creams or serums with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or natural oils that support moisture retention. Applying moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp helps seal in hydration.
Winter means exposure to extreme temperature changes, from cold, windy weather outside to warm, dry air inside. Holiday parties often mean heavier makeup. And all of these factors can weaken your skin’s barrier.
To protect your skin and avoid irritation, choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser and exfoliate sparingly. After cleansing, use a nourishing moisturizer or repair cream to reinforce the protective lipid layer. At night, consider a richer treatment or overnight mask to help recovery from the day’s stressors.
Your skin might be under more oxidative stress during the holiday season due to indoor heating, air pollution, festive indulgences, and even longer hours under artificial lighting.
Antioxidant serums with vitamins C, E, or niacinamide help your skin neutralize free radicals and maintain a vibrant tone. You can layer a brightening serum under your moisturizer, or choose a daily SPF that also contains antioxidants for dual protection. You can also carry a facial mist or hydrating spray so your skin doesn’t suffer from sudden changes in temperature or environment.
Glowing skin isn’t just cosmetics, it’s healthy habits showing through. That means sleep, exercise, diet, and other lifestyle factors affect how radiant your skin looks, no matter the season.
Regular, quality rest gives your skin time to repair and regenerate. Movement helps circulation, which brings nutrients and oxygen to your skin. Eating antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies, limiting excess sugar, and moderating alcohol also help reduce inflammation and prevent dullness.
Remember to be gentle with your skin if you change routines or experience skin flare-ups. Introduce one new habit at a time so your skin has time to adjust, and don’t be tempted to overcorrect and use harsh products.
If you want your glow to be more than skin deep, our cosmetic dermatology team can customize a plan to suit your unique needs and aesthetic goals. We offer a range of services, including chemical peels and laser procedures, that can help smooth texture, boost radiance, and address pigmentation or blemishes.
In-season treatments or light peels timed just before your holiday events can help provide that glow you’re looking for. And if you have underlying concerns like acne scarring, sun damage, or stubborn pigmentation, a professional evaluation ensures safe, effective treatment rather than guesswork on trending creams.
With smart daily care and the right professional touch, you can step confidently into every holiday gathering looking healthy, luminous, and beautifully you. Get started on your personalized plan with a consultation at Advanced Laser and Skin Cancer Center. Call us at 201-836-9696 or book online now.