The holidays are a joyful time of year for most of us. In fact, most people look forward to the holiday season all year long. However, stress is often an unwelcome guest along with lifestyle and diet changes. All these factors create the perfect recipe for acne, irritation, or frustrating flare-ups of eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions.

Showing your skin some extra TLC can definitely help, so let’s make the most of every opportunity this holiday season with 6 easy steps to glowing skin:

1. Moisturize Your Skin Carefully

The moisturizers that are best for you depend on many factors, including your skin type, your age and whether you have specific conditions, such as acne. Typically, look for products made of hydrating essential oils or beeswax. Lavender, chamomile and jojoba are known for soothing dry, irritated skin. It might be tempting to grab whatever inexpensive cleansers and creams you see at the local store, your skin deserves better than that. Instead, invest in professional cosmeceuticals which are formulated for optimal skin health.

2. Stay hydrated

During the summer months, it’s easy to remember to drink plenty of water. But once it cools off for winter, hydration is often not top of mind. Most of us consume more alcohol and salty foods during the holiday season which increases dehydration. Staying hydrated over the holidays can help curb those cravings and even control weight gain. Before you make your big plate of goodies, drink some water first. You’ll feel fuller and you’ll be hydrated, meaning you’re less likely to swipe a second piece of apple pie.

3. Limit Stress

Similar to alcohol, stress can age you and magnify dryness and wrinkles, or trigger you to overindulge in food. Acne, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, and other chronic skin conditions can all get worse due to stress. Consider treating yourself to a massage and remember to get plenty of sleep. The holidays are often a time when we focus on others, but it’s important to make sure you are scheduling some “me” time and carving out time for self-care.

4. Watch Your Diet

Staying away from the dessert table is hard to do during the holiday season. People often forget that food intolerances often manifest as skin issues. Eggs, milk, wheat, soy, nuts, and gluten are common food allergens, and too much milk and cheese can cause acne. Other culprits are highly processed foods and meats, desserts high in refined sugar, chips, and crackers, and dishes loaded with carbs. Eating too much of these foods can cause inflammation, puffiness, and skin rashes. Moderation is important and stick to your regular eating habits in between gatherings. Indulging in too much alcohol also takes a noticeable toll on the skin.

5. Exfoliate Skin

Consider a gentle chemical peel (at a medical office) to strip away the dull top layer of skin. By keeping surface skin exfoliated, you increase cell turnover which will help your skin look healthy and glow. Anti-oxidants, like Vitamin C serum, help skin cells repair damage from exposure to the environment, enhancing the texture of the skin. Don’t forget to still use Sunscreen!

6. Get Plenty of Sleep

The long dark days of winter can disrupt serotonin levels and your circadian rhythm, which helps regulate sleep, mood, and food cravings. Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so it is important to get 7-8 hours per night. Chronic lack of sleep causes circles and bags under your eyes and can leave you feeling tired, hungry, moody, and forgetful. Try to stick to a regular sleep routine, exercise schedule and avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.

The skincare experts at Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Center in Twinsburg, Ohio can help you achieve a gorgeous glow this winter with a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs. Contact us by calling 330-425-7600 or set up an appointment online by clicking here to get a head start on holiday beauty prep today!