For many of us the past month has been consumed with partying aplenty, overindulging and too little shut-eye. And while the festivities maybe a merry time for most, they’re not exactly kind to our skin.
But fear not, here at Cult Beauty, we’ve got just the thing you and your complexion needs. From serving up some serious hydration to peeling away your seasonal sins, we’ve unwrapped everything you need to know about how to detox your skin.
WHAT IS SKIN DETOXIFYING
To break it down, detoxing refers to the action of removing toxins from your body – we’re talking about those nasties that can come from the environment, your diet and other lifestyle choices. So, when it comes to skin detoxifying, you’re simply eliminating these free radicals by shielding your skin’s protective barrier and blocking out substances that can lead to fine lines, premature ageing and more.
WHY DO WE NEED TO DETOX OUR SKIN
We all need a reboot once in a while, and our complexions are no exception. Skin detoxifying removes impurities that can lead to blemishes, helps minimise visible pores and reduces redness. But that’s not all; oh no, detoxing your skin can also brighten dullness, hydrate dryness, even out tone and soothe sensitive skin.
HOW TO DETOX YOUR SKIN
STEP ONE: DOUBLE CLEANSE
Melt away last night’s escapades with a double cleanse – by this, we mean taking the time to wash your complexion both morning and night. As arguably one of the most effective steps to remove all traces of make up, dirt and debris, so reach for cleansing balms, oils, gels and creams to unclog pores and create a clean canvas ready for the rest of your routine.
STEP TWO: TONE
Essential to any skin care regime (weather you’ve had many late nights or not), toning brings back equilibrium to your pH levels post face wash. Eliminating excess oils – which your cleanser may have missed – these featherweight formulas banish blackheads by shrinking pores and boost your skin’s barrier function.
STEP THREE: PEEL
Liven up lacklustre skin and bring back a healthy glow by introducing a peel into your post-party come down. While a chemical peel may sound a little intimidating, it needn’t be daunting. Our top tip is to opt for a mild concentration and soak the solution on a cotton pad before applying it. By gradually introducing this step, you’ll notice reduced pigmentation, softened fine lines and instant illumination… Ready, set, glow!
STEP FOUR: EXFOLIATE
Just like your martinis, exfoliating during the festive season comes with a twist – a mud twist. Pampering yourself with a mud mask twice a week gives your skin the clean slate it needs come January 1st. Pulling out any leftover toxins, the oil-balancing clays reveal a renewed, revived and radiant visage.
STEP FIVE: HYDRATE, HYDRATE… AND HYDRATE
The party season consists of (too) many festive treats – everything from mince pies and yule logs to mulled wine and Baileys hot chocolates! And while they might seem like a great idea at the time, your complexion has other ideas. With all the above contributing to parched skin, it’s vital that you deliver a daily dose of hydration from dusk ‘til dawn! For your morning routine, you can quench some serious thirst by following your serums and moisturisers with SPF. And for bedtime? Apply a rich, thicker night cream that works its magic whilst you enjoy some well-deserved beauty sleep.