Let it glow

How to get your skin ready for the festive season, by LARA OWEN

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THE festive season is great for a lot of things - the fashion, the food, the films - but it isn't always so great for your skin.

Central heating, cold air, prosecco, stress and layers of makeup all add up - and if you've ever found yourself Googling “how to fake a glow before a Christmas party”, you're not alone. But the experts agree: the key to radiant, party-proof skin isn't a quick fix. It all lies in the preparation, prevention and smart recovery.

START YOUR GLOW CYCLE EARLY

According to dermatologist Dr Nora at Rejuvenation Clinic, the best festive skin starts long before December.

“Ideally, start four to six weeks before the festive season as this is the time it takes for your skin to go through one 'skin cycle' [on average 5-6 weeks] and your hard work to glow through,” she explains. “Consistency always wins over last-minute fixes.”

She recommends focusing on “gentle exfoliation twice a week, daily SPF and glow-boosting actives like vitamin C and niacinamide.”