The Perfect Three Day Skin Regimen for a Holiday Glow
Emma Coleman, columnist at PBL Magazine is an Aesthetics and Dermatology RGN with award-winning clinics across London and Kent. She frequently speaks and writes about her passion: taking a holistic approach to skin health, and has launched her own natural, antioxidant skincare line.
As a skin specialist, I frequently receive queries about boosting skin glow, texture, and condition just before a holiday. Often, clients seek advice just a few days before their departure. While this is a tight timeline, it is certainly achievable. I have devised a holistic three - day plan to help you get the best out of your skin and prepare for travel, sun, sea and sand at short notice.
Holiday Countdown: Day Three
On the third day before your holiday, focus on a honey mask at bedtime. Honey, known for its antibacterial properties and moisture-retaining abilities, can work wonders on your skin. Start by cleansing your face and neck as usual. Apply a thick layer of honey using a wooden spatula, massage it in gently, and leave it on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with tepid water, pat dry, and then apply your night cream. This simple routine can significantly enhance your skin’s hydration and glow.
Holiday Countdown: Day Two
The second day involves an LED Light Therapy session. This treatment, supported by extensive clinical research, is effective for skin rejuvenation. If you have access to a local skin clinic, book a session. Alternatively, you can use an at-home LED mask. Red Light (R-LED) therapy is excellent for anti-aging and overall skin rejuvenation, while Blue Light (B-LED) therapy is beneficial for balancing oily and acne-prone skin.
Holiday Countdown: Day One
On the final day before your trip, make a skin juice to boost antioxidants in your body, preparing your skin for the dehydrating effects of flights and sun exposure. Blend two inches of chopped cucumber, one banana, a handful of pineapple chunks, one teaspoon of ground turmeric, and 150-200ml of coconut water. This refreshing drink is not only high in antioxidants but also has a delightful tropical taste that reminds you of holidays.
Additional Tips
To further enhance your skin, try body brushing. Use a body brush in upward motions on your thighs, buttocks, and tummy with some sunflower or grapeseed oil before showering. This method stimulates circulation and can help reduce cellulite.
For your hair, a natural moisturizing mask with raw coconut oil can be beneficial. Apply the oil to damp hair, comb it through gently, and leave it on for one hour. Research indicates that coconut oil can thicken the hair shaft, making your hair look healthier and more voluminous.
Once You’re Away
When you’re on holiday, protecting your skin from sun damage is crucial. Despite the well-documented research on the harmful effects of UV exposure, many people still visit tanning salons. To prevent dark pigmentation and sun spots, use a good fake tan, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen in direct sunlight. Spend time in the shade and reapply your sunscreen throughout the day, especially after swimming.
Cover your neck and décolletage with high-necked tops during the day, reserving vest tops for the evening to avoid sun damage. This practice helps prevent common issues such as thread veins, hyperpigmentation, and crêping on the neck and chest.
Finally, if you’re enjoying beach parties or drinking alcohol in the sun, remember to stay hydrated. Match each alcoholic drink with a glass of still water or add ice to your drinks to prevent skin flushing and dehydration.
Following these steps can help you achieve a healthy, radiant glow just in time for your holiday. Bon voyage!
