Best pre-Eid skincare routine 2026 | how to get glowing skin for Eid | Ramadan skincare tips for dehydrated skin | natural home remedies for Eid glow | when to get a facial before Eid | Pre-Eid skincare habits that actually work during Ramadan fasting

Best pre-Eid skincare routine 2026 | how to get glowing skin for Eid | Ramadan skincare tips for dehydrated skin | natural home remedies for Eid glow | when to get a facial before Eid | Pre-Eid skincare habits that actually work during Ramadan fasting

Eid preparations usually start with outfits and accessories but somewhere along the way, skincare joins the list too. Between long fasting hours, changing weather, and late-night gatherings, the skin can feel a little tired — making a simple pre-Eid reset all the more welcome.

Hydration is key

One of the biggest challenges during Ramadan is maintaining hydration. Yes yes, it’s the age-old advice of drinking your weight, but honestly there is no better or sustainable option out there!

Long hours without water leaves your skin looking tired, which is why replenishing fluids from iftar till sehri becomes very important.

Alongside plain water, many people are now turning to chia seed water for hydration boost. Electrolyte drinks are also becoming popular, particularly for those who spend long days outside or remain active during Ramadan.

Cleansing and Gentle Exfoliation

A good cleansing routine remains the foundation of healthy skin. And no, you need not have five steps for cleaning your face. However, with warmer weather and daily exposure to dust, sweat, and pollution, cleansing twice a day with a mild face wash is a must.

Also, cleansing alone is not always enough. Gentle exfoliation two to three times a week can help the skin appear brighter and smoother. This step allows moisturisers and serums to absorb more effectively.

That said, moderation is key. Do not over-exfoliate! Especially if you don’t want an irritated skin and with micro tears.

The Truth About Glow

If miracle under-eye creams actually worked overnight, dark circles would have gone extinct by now!

Yet as Eid approaches, ads promising instant fixes seem to pop up everywhere.  Rollers, creams and serums all claiming to erase tired eyes in record time.

The truth, however, is far less dramatic.

Dark circles are often linked to genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, stress, and dry skin. What does help here is a good moisturiser paired with a hydrating serum. Pair it up with a good sunscreen and you have the golden combination. One that can improve the under-eye area, as well as pigmentation around the mouth and chin.

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

 

Nourish From Within

Great skincare begins at the iftar table. While our iftar spread often features fried snacks, balancing them with lighter options can make a visible difference to both energy levels and skin health.

Dishes such as chickpea salad, pasta salad or yoghurt-based drinks with limited sugar are refreshing alternatives that nourish the body without overwhelming it.

Word of advice? Cut down the oil now if you don’t want to welcome a breakout right before Eid.

Time Your Facials

Thinking of getting a facial before Eid? Timing matters.

Most skincare experts recommend booking treatments 10 to 12 days before the celebration. This gives the skin enough time to settle in case of temporary redness or irritation. Trying a brand-new facial too close to Eid can be a very risky business; hardly ideal when festivities are just around the corner.

Keep It Simple

When Eid is approaching, simplicity tends to work best.

A routine built around hydration, gentle cleansing, light exfoliation and moisturising is more than enough to keep skin looking fresh and balanced. Be consistent and the glow will follow. 

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Future-Proof Your Skin In Your 20s: Dermatologist Tips To Prevent Early Ageing | Beauty News

Future-Proof Your Skin In Your 20s: Dermatologist Tips To Prevent Early Ageing | Beauty News

Last Updated:January 29, 2026, 15:32 IST

Dr Sumit Sethi shares expert tips on preventing early skin ageing in your 20s with the right skincare routine, retinol use, hydration, sunscreen, and lifestyle habits.

A dermatologist-guided routine that supports hydration, barrier repair, targeted actives like retinol and hyaluronic acid, and daily sun protection builds long-term skin strength

Are you in your 20s and assuming skin ageing is a distant concern, something to address in your 30s or 40s? That assumption, unfortunately, isn’t accurate. Subtle signs of ageing can begin as early as the mid-20s. Fine lines around the eyes, uneven pigmentation, and lingering dullness often appear earlier than expected.

In India, these changes can be further accelerated by environmental and lifestyle factors such as pollution, harsh seasonal variation, late nights, stress, and prolonged screen exposure. Addressing early signs of ageing isn’t about chasing perfection, it’s about protecting the skin barrier and strengthening long-term skin health.

“As a dermatologist, I often tell patients that prevention must begin before damage becomes visible,” says Dr Sumit Sethi, Medical Director, DermaStation Skin Clinic, Janakpuri, Delhi. “Your 20s are not too early, they’re actually the ideal time to start.”

The Indian Skin Advantage and Its Challenges

According to the study Aging and the Indian Face: An Analytical Study of Aging in the Asian Indian Face, Indian skin can show earlier ageing changes compared to some other skin types due to a mix of internal and external factors, including pigmentation tendencies and collagen breakdown triggers.

“Most people think wrinkles are the first and only sign of ageing,” explains Dr Sethi. “But in Indian skin, early ageing often shows up first as uneven tone, hyperpigmentation, and textural dullness.”

Awareness remains limited, and many consumers either miss early warning signs or turn to unsuitable products. A proactive, individualised approach guided by dermatologist-recommended formulations can significantly delay visible ageing.

Building a Preventive Regimen in Your 20s

The most effective anti-ageing routines are consistent, minimal, and preventive rather than complicated. Start with essentials:

• a gentle cleanser that does not strip natural oils

• a lightweight moisturiser to maintain hydration

• daily sun protection

“These three steps form the backbone of long-term skin resilience,” says Dr Sethi. “Once the basics are in place, active ingredients can be introduced gradually and under expert guidance.”

Retinol: Small Steps, Big Benefits

Retinol remains one of the most researched and effective anti-ageing ingredients. It helps delay fine lines, refine texture, and support collagen production by increasing cell turnover.

“Retinol is powerful, but it must be introduced slowly,” advises Dr Sethi. “Begin with beginner-strength, dermatologist-recommended formulations and use them only a couple of times a week at first.”

Encapsulated retinol formulations often offer better tolerability and controlled absorption, making them more suitable for first-time users and sensitive Indian skin types.

Hyaluronic Acid: Keeping Skin Resilient

Hydration is one of the simplest ways to preserve a youthful appearance. Hyaluronic acid (HA), naturally present in the skin, attracts and retains moisture, helping skin look plumper and smoother.

“In your 20s, dehydration is a bigger ageing trigger than most people realise,” says Dr Sethi. “Air-conditioning, travel, and screen exposure all dry the skin. HA helps maintain water balance and barrier strength.”

Well-hydrated skin is not only healthier in appearance but also more resistant to early ageing triggers.

Sunscreen: The Non-Negotiable Step

If there is one product dermatologists universally insist on, it is sunscreen. UV radiation accelerates pigmentation, breaks down collagen, and remains the leading cause of premature skin ageing.

“Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable regardless of weather or whether you are indoors,” emphasises Dr Sethi. “Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula, ideally with protection against high-energy visible (HEV) light from screens, which is especially relevant for urban Indian lifestyles.”

Consistent application matters more than occasional heavy use.

Lifestyle Choices That Influence Skin Ageing

Skincare products form the external defence but lifestyle determines long-term outcomes.

“Topicals help, but internal health shows on the skin,” notes Dr Sethi.

A diet rich in antioxidants, fruits, leafy greens, nuts supports repair from within. Exercise improves circulation and nutrient delivery. Adequate sleep enables overnight cellular regeneration. On the other hand, smoking, excessive alcohol, and chronic stress accelerate visible ageing and can undermine even the best skincare routine.

What This Means for Your Skin

Your 20s should focus on prevention not chasing miracle anti-ageing fixes. A dermatologist-guided routine that supports hydration, barrier repair, targeted actives like retinol and hyaluronic acid, and daily sun protection builds long-term skin strength.

“Ageing is natural,” says Dr Sethi. “But premature ageing is often preventable. Start early, stay consistent, and your future skin will show the difference.”

Combine smart skincare with healthy living habits, and the benefits will extend well beyond your 20s lasting for decades.

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First Published:

January 29, 2026, 15:32 IST

News lifestyle beauty Future-Proof Your Skin In Your 20s: Dermatologist Tips To Prevent Early AgeingDisclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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Why Indian Skin Needs A Winter Reset: Expert-Backed Skincare Tips | Beauty News

Why Indian Skin Needs A Winter Reset: Expert-Backed Skincare Tips | Beauty News

Last Updated:January 14, 2026, 08:48 IST

Winter affects Indian skin differently, leading to dryness and sensitivity. Learn how barrier repair, hydration, and the right ingredients can restore balance.

Winter calls for a skin reset, strengthening the barrier, boosting hydration, and restoring balance to meet the season’s demands.

Winter brings more than just a change in weather, it alters how our skin behaves. For Indian skin, this seasonal transition can be particularly demanding. While it’s true that Indian skin contains more collagen than Caucasian skin, offering better resilience against early wrinkling, studies from the ITC Dermafique Indian Skin Health Report reveal that it also has a weaker barrier and lower moisture retention. This means that even though Indian skin may appear firmer for longer, it is significantly more prone to dryness and sensitivity when temperatures drop.

Understanding the Indian Skin Barrier

The outermost layer of our skin, the stratum corneum acts as a protective shield, locking in moisture and defending against external aggressors. However, Indian skin tends to have lower levels of Natural Moisturising Factors (NMF), making it more vulnerable to transepidermal water loss, especially during colder months. This helps explain why nearly 80% of Indian women experience dryness due to environmental factors, with 87% struggling with under-eye dryness even after using moisturisers, as noted in the Dermafique report.

The Role of Barrier-Repairing Ingredients

Dr Aparna Santhanam, skin expert and dermatologist, ITC Dermafique, emphasises that winter care for Indian skin must go beyond superficial hydration. Ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin play a crucial role in reinforcing the skin’s lipid barrier and improving water retention. Hyaluronic acid acts as a moisture magnet, drawing water into the skin, while glycerin forms a humectant layer that helps seal hydration in. Together, these ingredients help restore balance to skin that is both dehydrated and sensitive.

Addressing Pigmentation and Uneven Tone

Interestingly, Indian skin’s higher melanin content, approximately 50% more than Caucasian skin provides natural sun protection but also makes it more prone to pigmentation. Winter sun exposure, combined with indoor heating, can trigger oxidative stress, leading to dullness and uneven tone. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, helps regulate melanin transfer and improve skin tone, making it particularly beneficial for winter skincare routines.

The Winter Reset Routine

A winter reset doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your skincare routine; it simply involves adapting to your skin’s changing needs. Start with a gentle cleanser containing amino acids or lactic acid to cleanse effectively without stripping natural oils. Follow this with a hydrating serum rich in humectants, and finish with a barrier-supporting moisturiser infused with ceramides and panthenol. Most importantly, stay well hydrated, internal hydration plays a vital role in maintaining skin moisture.

As Dr Santhanam summarises, “Indian skin is beautifully resilient yet uniquely sensitive. Understanding its biology allows us to customise our routines to truly support it. Winter care, when done right, helps restore not just moisture, but balance.”

First Published:

January 14, 2026, 08:48 IST

Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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Hydrating foods and skincare tips for natural radiant cheeks and healthy skin glow

A healthy, rosy glow on the cheeks is often a sign of good skin health and circulation. While makeup can give instant colour, natural glow comes from consistent care, nourishment, and the right habits. Here’s how you can achieve naturally glowing cheeks without relying on heavy products.

HYDRATION IS THE FIRST STEP TO GLOW

Well-hydrated skin reflects light better, making cheeks look naturally plump and radiant. Drink enough water throughout the day and include water-rich foods like cucumber, oranges, and watermelon in your diet to keep skin supple.

NOURISH YOUR SKIN WITH A BALANCED DIET

Your diet directly affects your skin’s glow. Foods rich in vitamin C, healthy fats, and antioxidants help boost collagen and improve blood circulation, giving cheeks a natural flush.

USE NATURAL INGREDIENTS FOR A ROSY TINT

You don’t need chemical blushes for colour. Natural ingredients can enhance your cheeks gently over time.

  • Beetroot juice: Adds a natural pink tint

  • Rose water: Soothes skin and improves tone

  • Aloe vera gel: Hydrates and enhances glow

  • Apply lightly and wash off after 10–15 minutes.

FACIAL MASSAGE FOR BETTER BLOOD CIRCULATION

Regular facial massage increases blood flow, which naturally brightens the cheeks. Use gentle upward strokes with clean hands or a facial roller for 5 minutes daily to stimulate circulation and reduce dullness.

EXFOLIATE GENTLY, NOT EXCESSIVELY

Dead skin cells can make cheeks look dull. Mild exfoliation once or twice a week helps reveal fresh skin underneath. Use gentle scrubs or natural exfoliants like oatmeal or rice flour mixed with curd.

GET ADEQUATE SLEEP AND MANAGE STRESS

Lack of sleep and high stress levels can make skin look tired and lifeless. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep and practice stress-relieving activities like yoga or deep breathing for a healthy glow.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM SUN DAMAGE

Sun exposure can cause pigmentation and uneven tone. Apply sunscreen daily to protect your cheeks and maintain their natural brightness, even when indoors.

If you want a natural glow on your cheeks, focus on hydration, nutrition, gentle skincare, and healthy lifestyle habits. Consistency not quick fixes is the key to long-lasting radiance.

– Ends

Published By:

Chaitanya Dhawan

Published On:

Jan 6, 2026

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These 5 makeup tips had the biggest impact in 2025

These 5 makeup tips had the biggest impact in 2025

Here’s my rounding up of the five beauty tutorials that have made the biggest impact in my chair.

Each tutorial and makeover tells a story, from the subtle shifts that spark confidence to the bold changes that can redefine your personal style. The work that I feature in my weekly column is intended to help inspire you to try some of these looks out for yourselves.

My wish is that my work is not only helpful, but also enjoyable to read and I look forward to sharing more beauty tips, tricks and trends with you for years to come.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year, and thank you for your continued love and support.

Teal blue eye makeup

Give your summer look an update with a hue of blue. Here’s how I turned a pretty neutral eyeshadow look into an impressive and vibrant statement look using one product.

Silver eyeshadow

Icy eyeshadow that sizzles for summer. It’s all about the cool tones for hot vibes. Whether it’s shimmery, frosty or bold metallic pops, this look will turn heads and keep things fresh.

Retro liner

A contemporary twist on a retro eyeliner. I’m drawn toward the ’60s-inspired makeup trends of the double liner look. Here’s a modern twist on a retro beauty look that you might like to try.

Spring pastels

How to incorporate the spring pastel trend into your look. Spring is a time for optimism, renewal and dreaming of brighter days ahead, and this year’s biggest makeup trend is all about pastels. This time around, we’re seeing more muted hues on the eye, cheeks and lips, which offer a softer and more minimal burst of colour without feeling too intense.

Single-colour makeup

Single-colour makeup that gives the illusion of elevated glam. With a stacked calendar of events this summer season, spending hours on your makeup isn’t practical. Here’s how I used the used an eyeshadow stick to get the look.

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OK! Magazine

‘I’m a skincare expert and these are my top tips for managing festive breakouts ‘

A skincare expert has shared her top tips on how to effectively tackle post-festive skin breakouts for a clearer, healthier skin.

Parul Sharma GAU audience writer

08:00, 25 Dec 2025

How to manage your festive breakouts(Image: Getty)

The festive season is a time for merriment, lavish feasts, late-night parties and perhaps a bit too much indulgence — but for many, it’s also the time when their skin starts to act up. Spots, clogged pores and redness are common side effects of overindulging in rich foods, alcoholic beverages, lack of sleep and inconsistent skincare routines.

If you’re one of the many who’ve turned to Google in desperation, asking how to deal with skin breakouts — we have some good news. A skincare guru has revealed her top tips on how to fight those inevitable festive season breakouts, and all it requires are a few simple, easy-to-follow tweaks to your skincare routine.

Laura Porter, expert facialist and founder of FAB Skincare, says that post-Christmas skin woes are among the most common problems she sees in her treatment room every January. Laura advises: “Your skin is often the first place to show signs of internal stress. Overindulgence doesn’t mean you’ve ‘ruined’ your skin — it just needs a gentle reset rather than harsh treatments or over-cleansing, which can make things worse.”

Why festive excess causes breakouts

Alcoholic drinks, sugar and rich foods can cause inflammation and dehydration, while late nights and insufficient sleep disrupt the skin’s natural repair cycle. When these factors are combined with heavier makeup and less frequent cleansing, pores can quickly become blocked — leading to blemishes, dull skin and uneven texture, reports the Mirror.

Many people’s skin starts to rebel during the festive season due to all the excess(Image: Getty Images)

Skincare expert’s handy post-festive advice

Don’t over-cleanse your skin

When a breakout pops up, many of us instinctively grab for harsh cleansers, scrubs or potent acids in an effort to “dry out” blemishes.

However, Laura advises the opposite: “Over-cleansing and harsh acids can compromise your skin barrier, leading to more inflammation, sensitivity and ongoing breakouts. Your skin needs support, not punishment. Cleanse thoroughly but gently, ideally twice a day, and avoid anything that leaves your skin feeling tight or squeaky.”

A healthy skin barrier helps regulate oil production and allows active ingredients to work more effectively.

Make overnight skin repair a priority

The skin just needs a gentle reset rather than harsh treatments(Image: Getty Images)

Night-time is when the skin naturally switches into repair mode: “This is the ideal time to support healing, collagen production and hydration. While you sleep, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients, so an overnight treatment can significantly reduce redness, improve texture and help prevent lingering dark spots after a breakout has healed.” Consistent overnight care can make a visible difference within just a few days, shares the expert.

Hydration is key – both inside and out

Dehydration is a common yet frequently missed trigger for breakouts: “When skin is dehydrated, it often overproduces oil to compensate, which can clog pores. Drinking plenty of water, reducing alcohol where possible and using products that hydrate at multiple layers of the skin will help restore balance and improve clarity.”

Well-hydrated skin is also better equipped to heal and protect itself against further congestion.

Treat spots with precision, not panic

Instead of slathering multiple products across the entire face, Laura recommends a focused approach: “Spot treatments, such as the FAB Skincare No.6 Overnight Spot Treatment, are far more effective when used correctly. Apply directly to the blemish before bed and allow it to work overnight, rather than spreading strong ingredients across healthy skin.”

This technique helps clear congestion whilst minimising the risk of dryness, redness and post-inflammatory marks.

Be patient and maintain consistency

When skin plays up, it’s tempting to change everything at once —but this can prove counterproductive and backfire, explains the skin specialist. Laura warns: “Quick fixes rarely work. Consistency beats intensity every time. Stick to a simple, supportive routine and give your skin time to recover. Constantly switching products or overloading your skin will only slow the healing process. Avoid switching products too frequently.”

As we usher in the new year, Laura’s advice is straightforward: steer clear of drastic treatments and extreme measures, and focus on aiding your skin’s natural healing process.

“Your skin is incredibly resilient when you treat it with care. A calm, targeted approach will always deliver better results than trying to undo festive indulgence overnight.”

For the latest money saving tips, shopping and consumer news, go to the new Everything Money website.

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Tips and Tricks to Glow Up Your Going-Out Makeup

Tips and Tricks to Glow Up Your Going-Out Makeup

3. Swap liquid makeup and concealer for stick foundation.

For decades, “going-out makeup” meant applying and blending layers of liquid makeup and concealer as if we were all pros. Well, we’re not. Stick foundation has taken the “less is more” strategy learned from tinted moisturizer and made achieving a polished makeup look a snap.

By using primer, your foundation has one less thing to worry about. For many women, stick formulas can double as foundation and concealer if the formula is matte enough to cover brown spots and discolorations but creamy enough to work in the eye area, too. Maybelline New York Lifter Stix Multi-Use Face Makeup Stick ($8, target.com); Dior Forever Skin Perfect 24H Multi-Use Foundation Stick ($57, nordstrom.com); and Bobbi Brown Waterproof Skin Foundation Stick ($57, bloomingdales.com) all achieve this and come in a wide range of shades.

Some sticks have a semimatte, velvety texture, like Fashion Fair SkinFlex Stick Foundation ($39, sephora.com) and Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick ($49, sephora.com), and provide fuller coverage (I’d use a separate moisturizing eye area concealer with these), but they’re still more natural-looking than full-coverage liquids.

Other sticks, such as Well People Supernatural Complexion Stick Foundation ($26, target.com) and Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Foundation Stick ($46, sephora.com), offer a sheer, radiant look and provide the skin with more polish than a tinted moisturizer. Apply all of these foundations directly from the stick to your face, then use your fingers; their warmth helps the color melt into your own skin tone. Those who prefer tools can use a brush or makeup sponge. Reapply where you need extra help on brown spots, broken capillaries or redness around the nose. Sticks are portable and mess-free, so slip them into your bag for touch-ups as needed.

(From left) Anastasia Beverly Hills Dual-Ended Fill & Define Powder Perfect Brow Pencil; Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Matte Eye Shadow; Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Long-Wearing Cream Eyeshadow; Tarte Fake Awake Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Highlight in Universal Nude.

AARP (Meiko Arquillos, Getty Images)

4. Power up your eyes in a newer way.

Smoky, contoured eyes and their multicolor palette shadows have been the go-to for years. While there’s nothing wrong with the look, many women say their eyelid space is now reduced due to hooded and deep-set eyes, and the texture is often creased. Use your smoky-eye skills, but simplify the process by tweaking your products and application techniques. Start by adding an eye primer, and swap powders and palettes for cream shadows and basic liners, and mascara for waterproof versions in black.

Here’s why: Creamy shadow clings to lids, whether they are dry, warm or watery, and it doesn’t flake or crease. All you really need is one neutral shade applied from just above the crease to the lash line. Choose between light and dark shadow, matte and shimmer. To freshen discolored lids and wake up tired or small eyes, opt for peachy, sandy, beige or nude shades. Enhance your eyes’ shape or update your smoky vibe by choosing medium-toned taupes, browns or gray/mauvey browns.

Matte shadows like Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Long-Wearing Cream Eyeshadow in Taupe, Sandstone or Chestnut ($25, sephora.com) and Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Matte Eye Shadow in 17 Caramel, 13 Au Natural and 18 Cobblestone ($33, nordstrom.com) will blank out redness and give lids a smoother, firmer look. Shimmers, like L’Oréal Paris Le Shadow Stick in Magnetic Bronze, Brown Abyss, Twinkly Rose and Brown Bliss ($14, cvs.com), revive radiance and restore sparkle. Skip reddish browns and metallics that exacerbate fatigue and crepey lids. 

Next, swap your usual eye pencil and mascara for waterproof formulas in black, like Too Faced Killer Liner 36 Hour Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in Black ($26, kohls.com) and Revlon Colorstay Full Time Waterproof Mascara in Blackest Black ($13, cvs.com), to really power up your eyes. Double-line the upper lids at the lash roots and again under the roots, on the inside of the rim; for lower lids, use a lighter touch and the same pencil. For eyes that are red (due to allergies, cold or sensitivity) or puffy or that have significant under-eye discoloration, skip the black pencil on the lower lid. Instead, apply a nude eye pencil, such as Tarte Fake Awake Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Highlight in Universal Nude ($24, kohls.com), inside the waterline to brighten the eyes and counteract redness.

Last tip: Fill and extend brows that are skinny, skimpy, short or tadpole-shaped. Powder pencils, such as NYX Powder Louder Brow Pencil in Deep Brown, Blonde, Taupe and Soft Brown ($8, cvs.com) and Anastasia Beverly Hills Dual-Ended Fill & Define Powder Perfect Brow Pencil ($26, sephora.com), make revising and shaping brows faster and easier. You’ve got this!

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Liverpool Echo

Skincare expert shares her top tips to manage festive breakouts and dull skin

Festive breakouts are all too common during the holiday season — but there are a few simple ways to manage them, according to a skincare expert.

Parul Sharma GAU audience writer

08:00, 25 Dec 2025

A skincare expert is revealing her top tips for the festive season(Image: VladimirFLoyd via Getty Images)

The festive season brings joy, lavish feasts, lengthy evenings and perhaps an excess of everything — yet for numerous people, it’s also when their skin begins to act up. Blemishes, congested pores and inflammation are common results of rich cuisine, boozy beverages, inadequate rest and erratic skincare regimens.

If you’re among the many folk who’ve turned to the internet seeking solutions for skin breakouts — we’ve got some good news. A skincare specialist has revealed her essential advice for battling those unavoidable holiday season flare-ups, requiring only a handful of straightforward adjustments to your daily skincare regime.

Laura Porter, expert facialist and founder of FAB Skincare, reveals that post-festive season skin troubles rank amongst the most common concerns she witnesses in her treatment room each January. Laura explains: “Your skin is often the first place to show signs of internal stress. Overindulgence doesn’t mean you’ve ‘ruined’ your skin — it just needs a gentle reset rather than harsh treatments or over — cleansing, which can make things worse.”

What causes holiday overindulgence to trigger breakouts

Alcoholic drinks, sugar and decadent dishes can spark inflammation and moisture loss, while extended nights and poor sleep disrupts the skin’s natural restoration process. Combined with heavier cosmetics and inconsistent cleansing habits, pores can quickly become blocked – leading to spots, dull skin and patchy texture, reports the Mirror.

Many people’s skin starts to rebel during the festive season due to all the excess(Image: SWNS)

Skincare expert shares post-festive skincare advice

Steer clear of excessive skin cleansing

In the wake of a breakout, it’s common to reach for potent cleansers, exfoliators or strong acids in an effort to “dry out” blemishes.

However, Laura advises against this: “Over-cleansing and harsh acids can compromise your skin barrier, leading to more inflammation, sensitivity and ongoing breakouts. Your skin needs support, not punishment. Cleanse thoroughly but gently, ideally twice a day, and avoid anything that leaves your skin feeling tight or squeaky.”

A robust skin barrier aids in controlling oil production and enhances the effectiveness of active ingredients.

Prioritise nocturnal skin repair

Night-time is when the skin naturally enters repair mode: “This is the ideal time to support healing, collagen production and hydration. While you sleep, your skin is more receptive to active ingredients, so an overnight treatment can significantly reduce redness, improve texture and help prevent lingering dark spots after a breakout has healed.” Regular overnight care can yield noticeable results within just a few days.

Hydration is crucial — both internally and externally

The skin just needs a gentle reset rather than harsh treatments(Image: Getty Images)

Dehydration is a common but often neglected trigger for skin breakouts: “When skin is dehydrated, it often overproduces oil to compensate, which can clog pores. Drinking plenty of water, reducing alcohol where possible and using products that hydrate at multiple layers of the skin will help restore balance and improve clarity.”

Well-hydrated skin is also better prepared to heal and shield itself against further congestion.

Address spots with precision, not panic

Instead of slathering numerous products all over your face, Laura recommends a more focused approach: “Spot treatments, such as the FAB Skincare No.6 Overnight Spot Treatment, are far more effective when used correctly. Apply directly to the blemish before bed and allow it to work overnight, rather than spreading strong ingredients across healthy skin.”

This technique aids in clearing congestion while reducing the risk of dryness, redness and post-inflammatory marks.

Exercise patience and maintain consistency

When skin acts up, the urge to change everything at once can be strong – but this can backfire and prove counterproductive. Laura warns: “Quick fixes rarely work. Consistency beats intensity every time. Stick to a simple, supportive routine and give your skin time to recover. Constantly switching products or overloading your skin will only slow the healing process. Avoid switching products too frequently.”

As we usher in the new year, Laura’s advice is straightforward and unambiguous: steer clear of severe treatments and radical actions, focusing instead on bolstering your skin’s innate healing process. “Your skin is incredibly resilient when you treat it with care. A calm, targeted approach will always deliver better results than trying to undo festive indulgence overnight.”

For the latest money saving tips, shopping and consumer news, go to the new Everything Money website.

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The SIX skincare tips to get rid of 'Christmas face' this winter, according to experts

The SIX skincare tips to get rid of ‘Christmas face’ this winter, according to experts

THE festive season is a time of indulgence – from mince pies and festive cocktails to endless turkey sandwiches.

While these treats bring joy, they can take a toll on your skin, leaving it looking tired, dull, and acne-prone.

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Dr. Vanita Rattan on how to keep your skin glowing over the holidays

Dermatologists and skincare experts are calling this phenomenon “Christmas Face.”

Global skin doctor and founder of skincare line Dr. Vanita Rattan explains that late nights, overindulgence in alcohol and sugary foods, and disrupted routines are the main culprits behind the seasonal skin slump.

She shares six key habits to watch out for and how to keep your skin glowing throughout the holidays.

1. Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the fastest ways to dehydrate your skin because it’s a diuretic, increasing urine production and causing the body to lose more fluids than it takes in.

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As a diuretic, it increases fluid loss, leaving skin dry, flaky, and rough.

Fine lines and wrinkles can also appear more pronounced.

Alcohol depletes essential nutrients needed for skin repair, slowing down cell regeneration.

To combat this, Dr Rattan recommends using a ceramide- and peptide-rich moisturiser, such as a CeraPep cream, to boost hydration, improve texture, and strengthen the skin barrier.

2. Sugary treats

Christmas indulgences like roast dinners and sweet treats are high in saturated fats, which can disrupt gut bacteria and trigger inflammation.

This often leads to excess sebum production, clogged pores, and acne breakouts.

According to Dr. Rattan, cleansing twice daily with a blemish-controlling cleanser and following with a PM Gel Moisturizer containing glycerin to hydrate, niacinamide to control sebum, and salicylic acid to unclog pores can help.

Dr Rattan said: “It’s important to remember that achieving clearer skin isn’t just about avoiding certain foods.

“It’s about maintaining a solid skincare routine to combat inflammation which can lead to acne.”

3. Late nights

Sleep is crucial for skin repair. During rest, skin regenerates and recovers, helping your complexion look refreshed.

Lack of sleep leaves skin stressed, inflamed, and prone to breakouts.

Late nights and binge-drinking not only leave you feeling tired and hungover, but also make your skin look tired.

Prioritise getting 8-9 hours of sleep during the festive season
to keep your skin radiant and healthy.

4. Sleeping in makeup

It may be tempting to skip your nighttime routine after a long night out, but leaving makeup on can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, preventing hydration and causing dryness and irritation.

Eye makeup can clog follicles, increasing the risk of infection.

Dr. Rattan recommends using a non-comedogenic, oil-melting cleanser to remove makeup gently without irritating the skin.

5. Dehydration

Hydration starts from within, and it’s easy to forget to drink enough water amid festive celebrations.

Proper hydration keeps skin plump and glowing.

According to Dr. Rattan, including water-rich snacks such as cucumbers, watermelon, and celery in your Christmas menu helps, as does sparkling water or herbal teas as an enjoyable alternative to sugary drinks.

6. Winter weather

Cold winter temperatures, combined with dry indoor heating, can strip the skin of natural oils, causing dryness, flakiness, and sensitivity.

Dr. Rattan advises protecting your skin with warm clothing like scarves, applying a barrier cream to lock in moisture, and using broad-spectrum SPF50++++ year-round to prevent UV-related damage.

With these six expert tips, it’s possible to keep your skin healthy and radiant – even through the indulgences and celebrations of the festive season.

Alcohol is one of the fastest ways to dehydrate your skin

Christmas indulgences like sweet treats are high in saturated fats, which can disrupt gut bacteria and trigger inflammation

Cold winter temperatures, combined with dry indoor heating, can strip the skin of natural oils, causing dryness, flakiness, and sensitivity

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