The holiday season can take a toll on the skin. We are often overwhelmed with the stress of planning and partying. Here are some dermatologist-recommended tips and tricks for achieving healthy, naturally glowing skin during the holiday season.

1. Cleanse Regularly

• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening. Cleansing regularly removes dirt and debris from the skin and prevents clogged pores and dull skin. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser are two great budget-friendly options.

2. Use Topical Vitamin C

• Topical vitamin C contains anti-oxidant properties and studies show it can reduce the appearance of pigmentation, improve skin firmness, and overall result in a brighter complexion. Use two to three drops of a topical vitamin C serum before applying sunscreen in the morning.

3. Wear Sunscreen

• We are still getting sun in the winter and chronic exposure can contribute to skin damage and aging. Sunscreen with at least SPF30 should be applied every day as the last step of your morning skincare routine, before putting on makeup. The rule of thumb is to reapply sunscreen every two hours if you’re outdoors.    

4. Try a Topical Retinoid

• Retinoids are vitamin A products that help increase cell turnover so older skin cells can be replaced by younger, healthier skin cells more rapidly. Retinoids also help balance oil production and help improve the appearance of fine lines and dark spots. There are both over-the-counter and prescription strength options.   

5. Moisturize

• Winter weather can cause damage and dry, itchy skin. Moisturize with a face cream every night. Looks for products containing ceramides, which are naturally occurring lipids that help keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores. 

6. Exfoliate

• Exfoliating once or twice a week can help removed the outermost layer of dead, dry skin cells. Use chemical exfoliation products such as glycolic acid over mechanical exfoliators. Avoid scrubs that contain rough or abrasive particles as they can cause tiny tears in the skin.

7. Stay Hydrated & Watch What You Eat

• What you put in your body is just as important as what you put on it. Although it can be a struggle during the holidays, try to avoid junk food and drink plenty of water.

Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to bright, glowing skin. Be patient, though. Changes won’t happen overnight. If you’re still struggling with skin dullness or other potential skin conditions after following all these steps, consult a dermatologist.