6 ways to get (and keep) glowing skin this holiday season

Dec 12, 2024

The end-of-year usually equals time off and a slower pace, and what we miss in the structure of the work week we typically make up for with a less-than-perfect diligence with our skincare routine.

It’s all good festive fun but travel, change in climate, disrupted skincare regimen and indulgences can equate to breakouts, dullness, dehydration and irritation (or all of the above). However, with a few easy tweaks, you can maintain healthy, glowing skin all holidays.

We share six top tips, plus the ultimate Skinstitut holiday skincare routine, below.

1. Cleanse

This step sets your skin up for success (simple but true). A good double cleanse removes makeup, sunscreen and pollutants, reducing the risk of breakouts while allowing your serums and moisturisers to work efficiently. Even if you’re exhausted or home late, be sure to cleanse twice. We suggest you start with Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil to really break down that makeup and oil, but doubling up with a gel formula will also work in a pinch.

Try: Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil

2. Exfoliate

Another easy and effective skincare hack, exfoliation removes dull, expired cells. This makes for a smoother texture and brighter glow, as well as reducing the risk of bumps and breakouts.

How often you should exfoliate depends on your skin type. For oily skin, three to five times per week is good. Those with dry or sensitive skin might find that two to three times per week is plenty.

For breakout-prone or oily skin, try our Glycolic Scrub 14%.

Normal, dull, dry and/or mature skin will love our Expert Refine AHA Glycolic Toner.

If you’re sensitive, choose our ultra-gentle Enzymatic Micro Peel.

3. Hydrate

Tight, dull skin is often caused by dehydration. Things like alcohol, lack of sleep, sun exposure and internal heating can all contribute, so be sure to use products that will replenish your skin’s moisture reserves. Our 1% Hyaluronic Complex Serum will plump and soothe all skin types, while our Expert Revitalise Hyaluronic Jelly Mask will instantly boost moisture for an event-ready complexion.

4. Protect

Whether you’re in the northern or southern hemisphere, UV protection is essential. This means applying a broad-spectrum SPF daily and, if you’re out in the cold, a nourishing balm or moisturiser to prevent dehydration and barrier impairment.

Try: Face The Day SPF 50+

Try: Repair Balm

5. Travel with your skincare

Jetting off this festive season? Don’t let that be the reason you drop the ball on your AM and PM regimen. Fortunately, we’ve got some mini sets that are perfect for your holiday skincare routine (for glow minus the excess baggage).

Try: Hydrations Heroes, The Discovery or The Skin Seeker skincare sets

6. Try a DIY facial

If you really want to zero in on glowy skin, consider a weekly at-home facial. It doesn’t have to be complicated – with just two steps, our Expert Express Facial Duo exfoliates and floods the skin with moisture for instant smoothing and a dewy glow.

Try: Expert Express Facial Duo

Your Christmas skincare routine

Morning