The holiday season is stressing me out! What can I do to keep my skin from showing the stress?
Along with the happiness of the holidays there is often lots of stress, which can lead to less-than-healthy skin. Stress is the No. 1 contributor to free radical damage, which can cause an increase in fine lines, wrinkles, redness, inflammation, breakouts, tired eyes, and sagging skin.
Even the healthiest of multi-taskers will see their skin suffer during all the partying, shopping, and entertaining that is associated with the holiday season.
Now is the time to use products that combat the effects of too little sleep and too much fun. Products with a high potency of antioxidants are the most important preventative tool in your skin care arsenal because they slow the signs of abuse created by free radicals. To prop up tired skin, I recommend:
- 20% Vitamin C serums
- Vitamin A products such as Retinol and Retinyl Palmitate
- Vitamins K, B, and E
- Hydrating and repairing ingredients such as mango, shea butter, aloe, arnica, and skin growth factors
However, remember that the vitamins won't offer any benefit unless the dead surface cells that are blocking the way have been removed. AHAs provide the most effective form of exfoliation by evenly "ungluing" those old cells and allowing the skin to reap the benefits of the antioxidants.
Also, watch your alcohol intake this holiday season because it dehydrates the skin and causes fluid retention under the eyes.
Celeste Hilling is the Founder and CEO of Skin Authority and host of the nationally syndicated internet radio show "Skin Health TODAY."
More Expert Answers:
- Should I Change Skincare with the Seasons?
- Should I Try Microdermabrasion?
- Summer's Over ... Do I Need to Wear Sunscreen Every Day?
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