Too much alcohol, second-hand smoke can kill your skin. Here’s how to keep it soft, smooth
Our skin is exposed to pollutants and toxins on a daily basis, often outside of our control. However, alcohol, tobacco and cannabis use can increase toxin exposure and can dehydrate the skin, leading to skin sensitivity, dark spots, acne and dryness.
If you plan to indulge a little this holiday, protect your skin from these unwanted effects by using a protective skincare routine before and a recovering skincare routine after holiday festivities.
Why polyphenols help your skin
One of the best ways to provide your skin with added protection against pollutants and toxins is to add a skin cream or serum that contains polyphenols to your skincare routine. Polyphenols are compounds found in a variety of plants that have powerful antioxidant properties.
Antioxidants are needed to neutralize harmful free radicals that can otherwise prematurely break down important skin components such as collagen and elastin, leading to advanced signs of aging.
Two powerful skin-protecting ingredients, in particular, are Crepidiastrum denticulatum and Saururus Chinensis. These are both plant-derived ingredients that protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV light, pollution, heavy metals and other environmental and lifestyle factors. These ingredients also have strong anti-inflammatory qualities, making them excellent ingredients to calm red, irritated skin.
You can also add polyphenols to your diet by eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables and nuts. Keep in mind, however, that it can take several weeks for dietary changes to show up on your skin — so stick with healthy changes to see results!
How to revitalize dehydrated skin
Indulging in excess alcohol or being exposed to second-hand smoke over the holidays can lead to dull, dehydrated and stressed skin. Help your skin repair itself with an antioxidant serum such as a vitamin C serum, or skincare products that contain special enzymes that repair DNA.
Soothing anti-inflammatory ingredients like cucumber and argan oil can also be used the day after a holiday party to calm and revitalize the skin.
Additionally, using a hyaluronic acid serum or cream can help to restore a smooth, dewy glow to your complexion. Pair this skincare tip with drinking plenty of water for both short- and long-term hydrating effects on your skin.
Bottom line
Keep your skin looking and feeling its best throughout the holiday season by planning ahead and adding antioxidant skincare ingredients to your daily routine. If you do indulge a little too much over the holidays, boost your skincare regimen with antioxidants and DNA-repair serums to recover a smooth, healthy-looking complexion.
To stay in the know about the latest skincare research and ingredients, follow Baumann Cosmetic on YouTube or @BaumannCosmetic on Instagram or Facebook.