TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS

17/12/2019

A CRAM-PACKED SCHEDULE, CHRISTMAS PARTIES AT THE OFFICE AND WITH FRIENDS, HEAVY DRINKING, FATS AND SWEETS GALORE ON TOP OF TOO LITTLE SLEEP AND FRANTIC GIFT-SHOPPING... ENOUGH! YOUR SKIN NEEDS TO BREATHE A BIT TO FACE THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH SERENITY. SO HERE'S A SPECIAL SKIN CARE ROUTINE FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER.

1. SCHEDULE "OFF" NIGHTS

Your skin regenerates when you get enough rest. That means if you're partying all night every night, it simply doesn't have time to rejuvenate. In spite of all those social obligations, think about giving yourself a few free evenings. Leave work before 7 p.m., make yourself a nice dinner, slip into your pyjamas and go to bed earlier than usual to get a fresh skin tone and more energy when you wake up.

2. DO A SUGAR DETOX

Whatever is bad for your body also has an adverse effect on your skin. Sugar is the prime culprit to avoid. It induces inflammation which encourages collagen fibre glycation, robbing them of flexibility that then opens the door to wrinkles and loss of skin firmness. Sugar also ravages your insulin levels, which can lead to hormonal imbalances that can cause acne. Conversely, green vegetables like kale, spinach and broccoli are filled with vitamins essential to your skin's health. So add a dose of greens to your meals for effective skin detoxing!

3. TAKE A REAL HOLIDAY

Everyone knows the Christmas holidays are often anything but relaxing! How about booking two or three days just for yourself? Anne Semonin's suggestion: a weekend in the mountains to get the full benefit of fresh air and a full dose of vitamin D from the sun's rays. Your skin will look fresh and glowing for the holidays! Want an added feel-good benefit? Reserve an Anne Semonin skincare session in one of our partner spas: Spa Le Bachal at the Hameau Albert 1er in Chamonix.

4. HYDRATE!

Naturally, cups of hot wine and flutes of champagne don't count! Even though it's the body's largest organ, your skin is last on the list to receive essential nutrients, oxygen and water. As toxins accumulate, your essential nutrients decrease (excess alcohol also leaves you dehydrated). So it's important to maintain optimal hydration -- 1.5 to 2 litres per day -- to get healthy, fresh and glowing skin.

5. EXFOLIATE!

Skin detox starts off with a good exfoliation. One you've removed all dead cells, your skin will seem to glow with better health. The Anne Semonin Exfoliating Mask cleans and purifies without irritating. Natural astringent ingredients like red algae and kaolin eliminate impurities and absorb excess sebum. This double-acting exfoliating mask helps eliminate blackheads while leaving skin soft and glowing. Use it once to twice a week, before and after the holidays.

6. INVEST IN A GOOD SERUM

As the old saying goes, "an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure." A good antioxidant serum will neutralise damage caused by free radicals from stress, pollution, smoking and alcohol -- elements the skin is more exposed to during the holiday season. Anne Semonin recommends liquid textures, because they can penetrate the epidermis and dermis a lot better. The Oligoanne Serum is a powerful antioxidant solution that instantly refreshes dehydrated skin and improves cell oxygenation, to clear up and smooth your skin tone. Enriched with chlorella, it will protect skin from exterior agents by strengthening its natural defences. Apply morning and night on cleaned skin before moisturising. With these tips, you can be ready for the holiday season with a detoxified, purified and untroubled fresh skin.