Getting Skin Holiday-Ready
The holiday season is upon us, and following some easy-to-implement skincare steps will positively impact your group photo and selfie-ready look! Battling the challenges of winter weather and its toll on the skin is one of the first things to remember as skincare routines are adapted to the holiday season. Switching products and changing skincare routines can enhance the complexion and be radiant!
Winter Skincare
Individuals who live in colder climates likely have skincare that changes with the seasons. Colder months dry out the air, inside and out. Windy days lead to flaky and itchy skin that becomes irritated and requires additional moisturizing to stay healthy. Preparing for the winter before it is in full swing is an excellent way to stay ahead of skincare this holiday season and ensure you always look your best.
Dry air, colder weather’s sidekick, decreases skin’s moisture levels. Dry air outside and entering buildings with the heater pumping makes the skin lose hydration quickly, which is why many switch moisture products or add something to their skincare routine over the next several months. Some places with typically humid weather during most of the year can suffer from uncomfortable and dry-looking skin after only a few days of dry air!
Moisture Serums
Skincare routines have become increasingly simpler over the years, but when the seasons are near, finding a moisture serum or hydrating product to add to your daily routine is essential. Serums can be added to the beginning of a skincare routine and followed up throughout the day with a make-up-friendly moisture spritz. Nothing ruins a photo (or confidence) like dry, flaky skin that is coming off on a beautiful shirt or sweater!
Hyperpigmentation
Many people have hyperpigmentation on their skin. Whatever the reason, whether overexposure to the sun, genetics, or age, this is very common. Hyperpigmentation is increased levels of melanin that appear as spots and patches. If you have areas on your face affected by hyperpigmentation and want to address them now for the holidays. Some treatments may provide what you seek!
Vitamin C
It is well known in the skincare industry that Vitamin C has brightening agents. Vitamin C is a common ingredient in products that reduce signs of aging, including hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C can also repair and protect the skin. As with any new skincare product, check the ingredients, and if your skin has any adverse reactions, stop use immediately and seek professional guidance from a dermatologist.
Don’t Skip the Sunscreen
Cloudy days tempt those who want to skip steps in their skincare routine to forgo sunscreen. However, it is critical to know that even in the winter, sunscreen should not be missed! Any exposure to harmful UV rays produced by the sun, even on cloudy days, will make hyperpigmentation darker and counter any use of products to minimize dark spots and patches. Especially for those who spend time outdoors these next several months, getting burned from the light reflecting off snow can cause severe skin damage.
On the contrary, dermatologists recommend that even if you skip every other step in your skincare routine, you do this one thing every day to keep your skin healthy and minimize the risk of skin cancer!
Be Extra in Nighttime Routines
When we finally hit the pillow, our skin and body finally get a chance to rejuvenate, so why not use this time to give skin a little extra during these cold and dryer months? Skincare products with retinal encourage faster cell turnover and stimulate the production of collagen. Using a product with retinol every night for the next few weeks will help combat hyperpigmentation and help diminish wrinkles and fine lines. Retinol products are often thicker, which is also why they are best to use at night.
In-Office Treatments to Enhance Holiday Skin
People often overlook how effective and affordable good skincare is, which is why we want to mention some of the in-office treatments that could be scheduled now for a holiday-ready look. Facials, microdermabrasion, laser, and other treatments can be done in a professional dermatologist’s office. Depending on what skincare goals you have and what treatments are available, you and your dermatologist come up with a treatment plan that gets the most results in the time you have before you need to be holiday-ready!
A gift certificate for skin care is also an excellent option for everyone on your gift list. Teens live their first dermatology visit or facial, and moms, dads, and grandmas love the personal and thoughtful gift! If you live in Atlanta, or someone on your list does, Buckhead Dermatology is accepting new clients and is an excellent way to treat yourself, an employee, or someone you love this holiday season!
Dr. Sherrie Straughn is the best in the business and would be glad to help you achieve your holiday skin goals. Contact her offices today at 404-816-4000.