The holiday season brings joy, festivities, travel, and a break from the usual routine. But while your social calendar may be full of parties, family gatherings, and trips, your skin doesn’t take a vacation. In fact, the change in weather, travel stress, and indulgent treats can leave your skin feeling dull, dry, or irritated. Luckily, with the right skincare routine and a few mindful tips, you can maintain a radiant, healthy complexion all season long.
Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise, hitting the ski slopes, or staying cozy at home, here are some top holiday skincare tips to keep your skin glowing from the inside out.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
This might sound like the oldest skincare advice in the book, but it’s especially important during the holiday season. Cold weather, indoor heating, and long-haul flights all strip your skin of moisture.
What to do:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Use a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera.
- Switch to a richer moisturizer if you normally use a lightweight formula.
- Consider adding a humidifier to your bedroom to combat dry indoor air.
2. Stick to Your Skincare Routine (as Much as Possible)
It’s easy to forget your usual skincare steps when you’re busy with events or traveling, but consistency is key. If you’re away from home, pack travel-sized versions of your essentials so you don’t have to rely on unfamiliar products.
Skincare travel tip: Keep your routine simple—cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and a treatment product if needed. It’s better to stick to basics than to experiment with new products while you’re away.
3. Don’t Skip Sunscreen (Even If It’s Snowing)
Sun protection isn’t just for summer. Snow reflects UV rays, which means you could actually get more sun exposure while skiing or enjoying a winter hike. And if you’re heading somewhere sunny? All the more reason to protect your skin.
Best practices:
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
- Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors.
- Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, neck, and hands.
4. Go Easy on Exfoliation
With dry air and changes in your routine, your skin may be more sensitive during the holidays. While exfoliation is great for removing dead skin cells and keeping your glow, overdoing it can lead to redness and irritation.
Gentle exfoliation tips:
- Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
- Choose products with mild ingredients like lactic acid or fruit enzymes.
- Avoid physical scrubs that are too rough on the skin.
5. Treat Yourself to a Mask
Skincare masks can be a fun and effective way to give your skin an extra boost, especially if you’re preparing for a big event or just need a moment of self-care.
What to look for:
- Hydrating sheet masks for a quick glow.
- Clay masks to purify pores if you’re feeling congested.
- Overnight masks for deep moisture while you sleep.
Pro tip: Keep a few single-use masks in your travel bag or bathroom cabinet—they’re a holiday season lifesaver.
6. Mind Your Diet (At Least a Little)
Holiday treats are part of the fun, and you should absolutely enjoy them! But try to keep a balance with nutrient-rich foods that support your skin.
Skin-friendly foods to include:
- Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, like oranges, berries, and bell peppers.
- Omega-3-rich foods like walnuts, flaxseeds, and salmon.
- Whole grains and legumes that support gut health.
Staying mindful of what you eat can help your skin stay clear and vibrant, even if you sneak an extra cookie or two.
7. Sleep = Glow
Between late-night parties, travel schedules, and festive excitement, sleep can take a back seat. But your skin does most of its repair work while you rest. Lack of sleep can lead to puffiness, dullness, and under-eye circles.
Tips for better rest:
- Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night.
- Wind down with a calming routine—try a warm (not hot) shower, herbal tea, or relaxing music.
- Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and help keep your skin and hair smooth.
8. Combat Redness and Irritation
Cold wind, temperature shifts, and even stress can lead to increased redness or sensitivity during the holidays. If your skin is reactive, treat it gently.
Try this:
- Use fragrance-free, calming products.
- Look for ingredients like niacinamide, calendula, green tea extract, or chamomile.
- Avoid hot water when washing your face, as it can exacerbate redness.
If your skin becomes persistently inflamed or uncomfortable, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist.
9. Pamper Your Lips and Hands
Your lips and hands are often the first places to show signs of dryness and neglect, especially in colder climates. Make sure they get some extra love.
Lip and hand care tips:
- Apply a hydrating lip balm regularly, especially before going outside.
- Use hand cream after every wash or sanitizer use.
- Wear gloves when outdoors to protect against wind and cold.
You can even treat yourself to a nourishing hand mask or lip scrub for an extra boost.
10. Cleanse Carefully
Cleansing is crucial, especially with the extra makeup and environmental exposure that often comes with the holidays. But be sure you’re not stripping your skin.
Best practices:
- Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
- Double cleanse if you’re wearing makeup—start with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a water-based one.
- Avoid harsh foaming cleansers that can dry out your skin.
Keeping your skin clean helps prevent breakouts and ensures your other products absorb properly.
11. Travel Smart with Skincare
Airplane cabins are notorious for their dry air, which can dehydrate skin fast. Plus, changing climates and environments can disrupt your skin’s balance.
What to pack:
- A facial mist or travel-sized hydrating toner to spritz during flights.
- A barrier-repair cream or balm in case of extreme dryness.
- Your trusted go-to products in travel containers (don’t rely on hotel minis).
Bonus: Keep blotting papers or micellar water wipes in your bag for quick refreshes on the go.
12. De-Stress for Your Skin’s Sake
Holiday stress is real, and it can affect your skin through breakouts, inflammation, or fatigue. Managing stress isn’t just good for your mind—it shows on your face too.
Ways to manage it:
- Take short breaks during busy days to breathe, stretch, or journal.
- Incorporate skincare as a mindful ritual, not a rushed chore.
- Say no when needed—your skin (and your sanity) will thank you.
13. Prep for Events Without Overdoing It
If you’re getting ready for a big holiday event, you might be tempted to layer on extra treatments. But the days leading up to a party are not the time to try something completely new.
Safe ways to prep:
- Use a gentle exfoliant 2–3 days before.
- Apply a hydrating mask the night before.
- Stick to makeup products that work well with your skin.
And remember, the best glow comes from healthy, cared-for skin—not just makeup.
14. Be Gentle with Eye Care
The under-eye area is delicate and can quickly show signs of fatigue, puffiness, or dryness—especially with long days and late nights.
How to help:
- Use a lightweight eye cream or gel with caffeine or peptides.
- Chill a couple of spoons in the fridge and use them to de-puff in the morning.
- Gently tap your eye cream in with your ring finger—no tugging!
Final Thoughts
The holidays are a time of celebration and joy, but they can also be hectic for your skin. With a little planning, some smart swaps, and a touch of self-care, your skin can look just as radiant as you feel inside.
Keep your skincare routine steady, listen to what your skin needs, and don’t forget to enjoy the process. After all, glowing skin is just one more reason to smile this season.