Looking After Your Congested Skin During The Holidays

There’s a lot to celebrate over the Christmas season – family, food, gifts and Christmas cheer are all around. It can, however, be tough to take in all the pleasures of life at Christmas when you live with acne-prone skin and you’re worried about dealing with yet another outbreak. “Just ignoring it” is always far more easily said than done, so here’s a few of our top tips for keeping your skin in check while you enjoy the holidays!

1. Resist the urge to over-cleanse 
 
Did you know that it is actually possible to have oily and dehydrated skin at the same time? This type of skin often occurs when oily skin is being cleansed and exfoliated to such an extent that it loses a lot of its moisture, with an over-production of oil and more congested skin as a result. To avoid this, use gentle, natural products rather than harsh chemicals or exfoliating products with coarse particles. Our sister company Salcura's Antiac Daily Face Wash is an example of a daily cleanser that prevents breakouts but will not dehydrate your skin. It's also important to keep the water temperature on lukewarm when cleansing or showering, to keep your skin supple and hydrated. 
 
2. Make sure you moisturise 
 
Having oily or acne-prone skin does not mean you should skip this stage in your skincare routine. Make sure you rehydrate your skin after cleansing by moisturising regularly with natural products that promote water retention in the skin. Look for ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba oil or rapeseed oil. While you’re at it, avoid moisturisers that rely on heavy oils that can clog pores if incorrectly blended. An example of this is coconut oil - whilst many swear by it as an intensive natural moisturiser, it can be too much for acne-prone skin when used on its own. 
 
3. Moderate your diet 
 
“Calories don’t count at Christmas,” is the old adage and oh, how we wish it was true! Unfortunately, your skin knows they do count and can react to a whole host of foods, making your acne flare up. It's different for everyone but, as a rule, it’s best to limit alcohol and sugar consumption as much as you can. We know… With so much chocolate and “Christmas spirit” around, it can be all too easy to throw your hands up and dive in. Here are some practical tips to get the best of both worlds: 
 
- Drink lots of water in between sugary or alcoholic drinks. 
- Fill up on high quality proteins (such as turkey), high quality fats and cruciferous vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts in an extra virgin olive oil dressing). 
- Consider having lighter meals in between the big traditional Christmas feasts. How about a fruit salad for breakfast on Christmas Day, and why not make an antioxidant-rich salad or soup from your leftovers? 
- Try baking your own, healthier versions of the classic holiday treats, so that you know what's in them but won't feel like you're missing out! 
 
4. Mitigate stress 
 
When you’re buzzing around trying to find gifts for everyone, trying to get the Christmas dinner ready at exactly the right time or, when everyone’s finally calmed down and Auntie Mavis brings up politics AGAIN, stress can easily slip in. if you need a minute to step away and recharge or relax, do so! There’s no shame in removing yourself from stressful environments. A quick walk in the brisk winter air can really clear your mind (and eventually help to clear your skin). Some of us also tend to pause all our everyday stress-busting activities, such as exercise or journaling, around the holidays. While you think you may be giving yourself a break, consider that you may not be doing yourself a favour! Carve some time out in your Christmas schedule for a yoga session or a moment of stillness and meditation. 
 
5. Consistency is key 
 
As with your exercise and mindfulness routine, you should also try to keep some consistency in your skincare routine. Do you love wearing elaborate, festive make-up looks? Go all out! But after a long day of festivities, don't be tempted to just throw yourself into bed - make sure you always take off your make-up and cleanse your skin using products that will clear out your pores and balance your skin's oil production. Our Antiac range is here to help, with our Activ Liquid Spray going deep into your skin to keep your pores free from dirt and the build-up of sebum. 
 
Hopefully, these tips will be helpful to you as you move through the festive season!