Oh the havoc we put on our skin during the holidays is real. Think about it. All of the shortbread cooking eating, wine swilling and late nights playing Scrabble with your significant others takes its toll…that is, unless you know what to do about it. And despite the close quarters and possible lack of interaction with others, what you may not realize is how overindulging can have a negative impact on your appearance. Here’s what Dr. Gretchen Frieling, a board-certified Dermatopathologist from Boston recommends.
Stay hydrated
Aside from giving up booze, sweets, salty favourites and Netflix binging, it’s key to drink lots and lots of water. “That means drinking a full glass of water for every cocktail you have,” advises Dr. Frieling. “Drink even more water before you go to bed to flush out your system so you wake up less dehydrated, puffy and flushed.”
Take care of your skin before bed
Taking care of your skin before hitting the sack is a no-brainer, well, at least it should be. So make sure your wash your face and apply a moisturizer, like a hydrating serum before getting into bed. “Sleeping with dirty skin makes it prone to clogged pores and acne,” says Dr. Frieling.
Prop pillows and use tea
One of the best ways to minimize eye and face puffiness is to sleep on two pillows, slightly propped up. “One of the best ways to deflate eye puffiness and reduce the redness is to place cold tea bags over the eyes,” says Dr. Frieling. “The tannins in the tea help constrict blood vessels.”
Cover up what you can’t cure
To camouflage any redness in your face, use a green-tinted primer before applying your moisturizer to help neutralize any redness.
Consider lasers
When at-home remedies aren’t making much of a difference, it may be time to go the cosmetic laser route. “Certain laser treatments can reduce redness and spider veins on the face,” says Dr. Frieling. “It’s important to see someone who is well-trained to administer the laser treatment, though,” so make sure to book any cosmetic appointments with a credible aesthetician or dermatologist.
