From cookies and cocoa to parties and more, the holidays are filled with reasons to smile! Yet, amid the joy and festivities, these same joys can stress our skin out. But why is this the case? As an early gift to you, we’re breaking down how the holidays cause your skin stress and how you can combat those effects to keep your skin glowing throughout the season.

Not So Happy Holiday Effects

Excess sugar. Lack of sleep. Cold weather. Many holiday skin stressors are not unique – they’re actually quite common winter skin effects! However, it’s the circumstances that surround them that increase their impact on our epidermis. For starters…

Winter Chill

The winter months bring a drop in temperatures and humidity, leading to dry and dehydrated skin. The lack of moisture in the air can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling tight, flaky and more prone to irritation. Around this season, activities like light displays and holiday parades expose us to these cold weather effects. 

Festive Feasts

Indulging in holiday treats might be tempting, but excessive consumption of sugary and processed foods can trigger inflammation and exacerbate conditions like acne and rosacea. In some instances, it can even increase signs of aging. Curious to learn more? Read our blog on this topic.

Stress and Lack of Sleep

Between last-minute shopping, family get-togethers and end-of-year work crunches, the holiday hustle and bustle can elevate our stress levels. Mix this with insufficient sleep and you may find signs of overexertion on your skin – dark circles, puffiness, acne flare-ups and a dull complexion. 

Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Holiday Skin Bliss

No matter how or where you’re celebrating the holiday season, these board-certified dermatologist suggestions will help ensure your skin is glowing and radiant throughout the holiday season.

1. Stay hydrated.

Combat the winter dryness by staying well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water and use a good moisturizer to lock in moisture. Consider adding a humidifier to your living space to combat the dry indoor air. And don’t forget about your lips – keep them moisturized with a hydrating lip balm.

2. Eat mindfully.

While indulging in holiday treats is all part of the fun, try to maintain a balanced diet. Include skin-friendly foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, to counteract the effects of indulgent treats. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds can also contribute to a healthy complexion.

3. Practice stress management.

Take time for self-care. Whether through meditation, yoga or a relaxing bath, finding moments of tranquility can have a positive impact on your skin. Stress management not only benefits your mental well-being but also reflects positively on your skin.

4. Get your beauty sleep.

Prioritize a good night’s sleep to allow your skin to regenerate. Invest in a silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your skin and hair, preventing wrinkles and breakouts. Create a soothing bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down, promoting a restful night’s sleep.

5. Adopt (and maintain) a skincare routine.

Stick to a consistent skincare routine, adjusting products as needed for the winter season. Consider incorporating hydrating masks and serums to provide an extra boost of moisture. Don’t forget sunscreen, even in the winter months, to protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can contribute to premature aging.

Our board-certified dermatologists are here for you!

At Charleston Dermatology, we’re on a mission to improve skin health across the state of South Carolina. From our Charleston-area offices to virtual acne appointments through our Healthy Selfie Telederm Program, we’re here for all your skin care needs. Contact us today to begin your healthy skin journey in the new year!