The festive treats that shimmer in their little glasses. We still have some time to go, though. “If it was just a day or two, it wouldn’t make a difference, but since I had my first mince pie in October, I guess that kind of puts things in perspective,” laughs functional medicine practitioner Rosemary Ferguson.
This yellowish discoloration shows up on our skin.
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If a complete fresh start sounds like a good idea, you’re only a few weeks away from January. In the meantime, here are some temporary solutions to help you get through this challenging time.
Wine face
Skin appears fatigued, inflamed, and dehydrated
Excessive drinking can worsen symptoms of eczema, rosacea, and acne, according to Stephenson.
What to try
Taking regular walks in crisp, cool air can also help restore balance to your hydration levels and rh . It’s a recommendation that facialist Rhian Truman swears by, suggesting it stimulates oxygen flow and promotes radiant skin.
To reduce puffiness and tighten the skin, several products and techniques can be used. For example, eye creams containing caffeine or peptides can help stimulate circulation, while cooling eye masks can reduce swelling. Zoë Taylor, a makeup artist, also recommends using spoons that have been chilled in the freezer to temporarily tighten and depuff the skin.
Sugar face
The skin appears puffy and loses tone, also lacking a healthy-looking glow.
Eating more carbohydrates, which include simple sugars, causes our bodies to hold onto more water and sodium. “One slice of bread by itself won’t be a problem,” notes Rhian Stephenson, “but eating multiple slices of toast, several mince pies, and a serving of pasta can lead to water retention.” Consuming high amounts of sugar, in particular, can have another negative effect: it can damage skin elasticity and complexion over time by a process called glycation, in which excess sugar molecules attach to collagen and elastin fibers. This damage doesn’t develop suddenly within a week, but over time, typically after about six weeks, based on insights from Stephenson.
What to try
But a simple, at-home remedy can provide relief. You can try placing the cold pack in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or purchase ice globes from a retailer like Amazon to use in place of a cold compress. Simply let them thaw for a few minutes first to prevent discomfort or burn from the extreme cold.
Cheese face
Blemishes, flare-ups, and dry skin around the eyes can be a real issue for many people.
There’s a debate about whether eating too much cheese on Christmas Day can cause a breakout after the holiday. Ferguson isn’t sure if it’s to blame. “Some studies point to dairy as a cause of inflammation, but others disagree. However, medical professionals have told me that dairy can be an acne trigger, and Dr. Zia Stratos, Head of Nutrition at the Galen Clinic in London, shares this view. “I’ve noticed many patients with dairy intolerance and we know that intolerance can lead to inflammation, which can manifest in different ways, such as acne, eczema, or rosacea, depending on the individual’s characteristics.”
People who work with skin on a daily basis often notice that the area around the eyes tends to be affected. “In my experience, even the slightest sensitivity seems to manifest as dry patches around the eyes,” notes Taylor.
What to try
“Ribbon is my signature shade, forever in existence.”
