If you’ve allowed yourself, rightfully so, to indulge this holiday season – you may be seeing the effects of overeating on your skin.
When you expose your body to high amounts of glucose (sugar), found in rich foods and alcohol, the collagen and elastin proteins that maintain the skin’s structure are damaged, losing elasticity. is It burns the skin and makes it look dull.
This process not only reduces skin elasticity, but also contributes to increased sebum production (oil, which causes acne), dehydration and a rough, uneven texture.
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, dermatologists and skin care experts share their tips for detoxifying and revitalizing skin after the festive season.
How does high sugar, alcohol and heavy foods affect our skin?
The effects of delicious foods and alcohol on the skin may vary from person to person, but what happens inside the body is the same.
“High amounts of sugar in the diet lead to a process in the skin called glycation, which causes inflammation and DNA damage,” the anti-aging specialist explains. Dr. Ed Robinson.
“Highly processed foods often lack important vitamins and nutrients that lead to younger-looking skin,” says the medical director of Cosmedics Skin ClinicsDr. Ross Perry. “Not only that, they’re often high in refined sugars and fats that break down collagen and elastin, leading to fine lines and wrinkles.”
When it comes to alcohol, dehydration is one of its worst side effects.
“Alcohol is what’s known as a diuretic,” explains Perry, “which means our skin loses moisture and hydration, causing it to dry out.” Weak, dry, flaky and overall lines and wrinkles look more pronounced. ”
How does lack of sleep affect the skin and how to fix it?
Perhaps not just reserved for the holiday season – too often being deprived of a restful night’s sleep can wreak havoc on the skin.
“The skin is the largest organ in the human body and getting a good night’s sleep is vital to healthy skin because sleep is when our skin repairs itself, produces more collagen and Reduces dark circles under the eyes,” says Perry.
“Poor sleep can lead to fine lines, uneven complexion and overall dull skin. Ultimately, lack of sleep can weaken the skin’s ability to repair itself overnight.”
To combat this, Dr. Perry recommends getting into a nightly sleep routine of at least 7-8 hours. “Try to aim for roughly the same bedtime every night, turn off gadgets and make sure the bedroom has a relaxing atmosphere.”
To aid in overnight skin repair, vitamin C and vitamin A (otherwise known as retinol) support skin cell production.
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Medik8 Intelligent Retinol Supercharged Vitamin A Serum, £27 (was £39)
How to reduce inflammation and swelling
Because excess sugar causes the body to increase cortisol (the stress hormone), it can cause inflammation, which can manifest as swelling, redness or flaky skin.
“Ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides are especially good for calming inflammation and moisturizing,” explains Robinson. “It will encourage skin renewal, repair the skin barrier and eliminate damaged skin cells.”
Spending time morning and evening gently massaging your face using a moisturizer or serum will help stimulate blood flow and reduce puffiness.
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Beauty Bay Jade Duo, £13 (was £22)
Ingredients for dealing with laziness
If you’re looking to bring some glow back into your complexion, there are a few key ingredients to add to your skincare routine.
Regarding hydration, “Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture, providing deep hydration and brightening the skin,” explains the founder. Skin Investment ClinicHolly Mason. “Glycerin is another effective humectant that hydrates the skin, helping to maintain hydration levels.”
When it comes to brightening and reducing dullness, “Vitamin C is an antioxidant that brightens skin, reduces dullness and promotes a more radiant complexion,” says Mason.
Vitamin C serums can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so winter is a great time to start adding one – but that means following up with SPF is crucial.
“Lactic acid is a mild alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates dead skin cells, brightens skin and improves moisture retention and retinol (otherwise known as vitamin A) , promotes cell turnover and stimulates collagen production,” Mason explains. “These ingredients help reduce dullness and fine lines.”
Exfoliation shouldn’t be neglected in the colder months, as Perry notes: “During the winter you should give your skin a good exfoliation a couple of times a week to get rid of dead skin cells (it can easily (can be done at home and inexpensively) for a glowing complexion and stick to a regular skin care regimen twice daily.
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Paula’s Choice 6% Mandelic + 2% Lactic Acid AHA Liquid Exfoliant, £29.75 (was £35)
How long does it take for skin to bounce back?
“The amount of time it takes for your skin to recover after the holiday season varies, usually from a few days to several weeks, depending on the extent of luxury, your skin care routine and overall health,” Mason explains.
Although it depends on how long it takes for the skin to bounce back, routine and repetition are key to speeding up the process.
“Skin recovery varies, usually taking two to four weeks. Chinese Madison Skin Care Expert and Founder The agreementCharlotte Yao. “To speed up this process, adopt a consistent routine that includes cleansing, hydrating and protecting the skin with skin-nourishing products.”
“To support detoxification, use gua sha or try a gentle herbal tea like dandelion to clear heat and nourish the body,” explains Yao.
While skin care ingredients are half the battle, patience and repetition will ensure your skin returns to a healthy and glowing complexion come spring.