Japanese skincare puts emphasis on using less products

These Japanese Skincare Tips Can Take Years Off Your Face

Cleansers, toners, serums, creams and sunscreens are part of everyone’s skincare routine. However, these alone won’t be enough to make their skin appear and feel better. Many people believe that the more products they use, the better the results will be. However, Japanese skincare teaches us something entirely different. If you adopt a Japanese skincare routine, you will discover that you can achieve excellent results using fewer products.

Double cleansing is crucial: After spending the entire day in the sun, it is common for sweat and excess oil to accumulate on one’s face. In such instances, double cleansing is absolutely essential to keep your skin in optimal condition. First, you must remove your makeup using an oil-based cleanser, and then thoroughly cleanse your skin using a face wash.

Incorporate green tea in skincare: The antioxidants found in green tea can protect the skin from damage and help reduce inflammation. You can incorporate it into your daily skincare routine by using it in a face mask, a toner, or as an ingredient in other skincare products.

Stay protected from the sun: In Japan, people never step outdoors without applying sunscreen. Therefore, if you too wish to maintain healthy, beautiful skin, make sure to include a lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreen in your daily routine.

Gentle exfoliation: Removing dead skin cells is vital for maintaining a glowing complexion. If you are planning to exfoliate your skin, consider using a gentle scrub, like one based on rice or enzymes.

Apply sheet masks: Using a sheet mask once or twice a week can help keep your skin feeling fresh and hydrated. This can prove to be a highly effective method for achieving radiant, glowing skin.

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Anti aging Images - Free Download on Freepik

7 Anti-Ageing Tips Dermatologists Recommend For Women

According to Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, Senior Consultant and Dermatologist, MedLinks, “The focus on modern dermatology has changed from reversing the clock to supporting it, and we are moving away from an era of frozen expressions and toward a philosophy of skin health longevity. The goal for women today isn’t to cover up their age, but to ensure their skin remains structurally resilient and vibrant throughout their 40s, 50s, and beyond. If you are someone looking to evolve your regimen, here are seven expert-recommended strategies to maintain your skin’s biological vitality.”

7 Anti-Ageing Tips Dermatologists Recommend For Women

1. Defend Against Photo-Ageing

It is a clinical reality that nearly 90% of visible skin changes, including loss of elasticity and uneven pigment, stem from cumulative UV damage. Dermatologists now view high-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen as a daily medical necessity rather than a seasonal option. Since UVA rays, often referred to as the ageing ray, can penetrate glass and clouds, protecting the skin even while indoors or on overcast days remains one of the most effective ways to slow visible signs of ageing and maintain the skin’s structural integrity.

2. Protect the Skin Barrier

In the pursuit of achieving a glass skin, many women over-process their faces with aggressive peels, which strip away the skin’s natural barrier, triggering inflammaging, which is a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation that actively destroys collagen. Therefore, incorporating a regimen that is aimed at promoting longevity and focusing on ingredients such as ceramides and fatty acids can support the skin’s barrier function. When the skin maintains a healthy barrier, it will hold onto its moisture naturally, causing the skin to look plump without the need for additional treatments.

3. Integrate Smart Retinoids

The gold standard for cellular health is Vitamin A derivatives or retinoids. They are incredibly effective at improving the turnover of skin cells and promoting the production of new collagen. Some people experience a retinol burn and peel from using these products too frequently. Many experts suggest the following sandwich method, which starts with a low concentration formula just twice a week, until the skin becomes used to it is beneficial, and individuals can experience the benefits of texture improvement over time.

4. Invest in Bio-Remodelling

While traditional skincare works on the surface, bio-remodelling has revolutionised how we address deeper structural ageing. Unlike dermal fillers, which are used to sculpt or add volume to specific features like the lips, bio-remodelling, specifically via treatments like Profhilo, acts as an internal hydrator.

It utilises a high concentration of ultra-pure hyaluronic acid that flows through the skin’s layers. Instead of remaining in one place to simply fill a wrinkle, it initiates a process known as bio-remodelling that stimulates the production of multiple types of collagen and elastin. By improving the underlying structure of the skin, this technique can also enhance the skin’s firmness, elasticity, and hydration levels, which can lead to a healthier and more glowing look that might not be possible with topical applications.

ALSO READ- 5 Best Pre-Swim Lotions To Shield Your Skin From Chlorine Damage

5. Target Cellular Dehydration

Hydration is an essential component in keeping the skin supple and elastic. Even oily skin types can become dehydrated, and this makes lines look more prominent. Ingredients such as glycerin and multi-molecular weight hyaluronic acid are humectants, which attract moisture into the skin at various levels. This helps to increase hydration levels, making the skin smoother, softer, and more supple.

6. Extend Care Beyond the Jawline

The neck, chest, and hands are often the first places to show signs of ageing, as the skin in these areas is much thinner and contains fewer oil glands than the face. A comprehensive approach must be applied to all areas of the body, including the face, when applying products. Be sure to extend antioxidant serums and sunscreen to the neck and chest as well, as these areas are often prone to early signs of ageing, such as sun spots and thinning, crepey skin. Consistent protection and care can help maintain a more even and healthy skin appearance over time.

7. Neutralise Oxidative Stress

Every day, the skin is under constant attack due to urban pollution and blue light, which can create free radicals that can harm your DNA. Antioxidants like Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, and Resveratrol provide a second line of defence. When used in the morning under your SPF, they act as neutralisers against the environmental aggressors that can break down your natural support structures.

Conclusion

Ageing is a gift, and your skin is the storyteller of your life. By shifting the focus of your skin from fixing to nourishing it, you align your routine with your skin’s actual biology. Whether through consistent daily protection or advanced structural support like bio-remodelling, the most effective routine isn’t the one with the most steps. It is the one that respects your skin’s long-term health.

Image credits: Freepik

ALSO READ- How To Choose The Best Facewash For Summers For Fresh And Oil-Free Skin

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi. 

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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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