Between the cold weather outside and the central heating inside, your skin is exposed to a range of temperatures during the holiday season. Plus, cells turnover at a slower rate this time of year. The result: a dry, dull complexion. To maintain a glow all winter long, follow these tips from celeb aesthetician Sonya Dakar, who gave Gwyneth Paltrow a $350 anti-aging facial before this year’s Emmy Awards.
Invest in a humidifier. This will replace moisture that is lost to indoor heating systems (including a crackling fireplace) and prevent your skin from getting flaky and itchy.
Switch your skin care. Use a nourishing oil-based cleanser and apply a hydrating serum in the morning and night. Look for a formula that contains essential fatty acids-omega 3, 6 and 9. You should also apply your face lotion within minutes of washing your face to lock in as much moisture as possible.Try Sonya Dakar Buriti Purfying Facial Cleanser and Organic Omega Booster ($59 and $42, sonyadakar.com)
Add a retinol. Dehydrated skin is more susceptible to the aging process so now's the time to upgrade to a product that contains retinol. It sloughs off dead cells while facilitating the growth of new healthy ones and preventing fine lines and wrinkles. Try Philosophy Miracle Worker Retinoid Pads ($70, philosophy.com)
Use sunscreen. "If there is enough light outside to read the newspaper, there are enough ultraviolet rays that contribute to wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer," Dakar warns. Be sure to apply SPF throughout the winter.
Sonya Dakar is having an amazing holiday contest on Facebook right now. Prizes include a personal consultation with the pro herself and $5000 worth of products. Check it out!
