December is here and with it comes the sparkle, the festivities and, let’s be honest, the late nights. Whether you’re gearing up for a sophisticated work do, a family gathering or a fun-filled New Year’s Eve bash, you want your skin to look its best.
We all know the secret to a truly stunning party look isn't just the perfect shade of lipstick, it’s the flawless, glowing skin underneath. Think of your skin as the canvas; a smooth, luminous base makes everything else pop.
Pre-Party Prep
To get that beautiful, lit-from-within look, focus your efforts on smoothing texture and locking in moisture 24 hours before your event.
1. Exfoliate
Dead skin cells make your skin look dull and can cause your make-up to settle unevenly. The day before your event, give your skin a gentle but effective refresh.
The How-To: Reach for a skin brightening exfoliator such as MOST REVEALING Glowing Skin Oxygen Peel. This will slough off the tired, dull surface layer, revealing brighter, smoother skin. Your foundation will glide on like silk and your natural radiance will shine through.
2. Hydrate
Hydrated skin is plump, bouncy and catches the light beautifully; the definition of a party glow. This is the step that makes your skin look alive and vibrant.
The How-To: Apply a deeply hydrating mask such as QUENCH Deep Hydration Mask packed with hero ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the skin, instantly plumping fine lines, while vitamin E helps to soften and replenish dehydrated skin. Let it sink in fully before moving on to make-up.
3. Prime
This is the final, non-negotiable step before make-up. A great primer is the bridge between your skincare and your cosmetics.
The How-To: Use a skin-perfecting primer like GLOWING WELL Illuminating Primer that enhances skin with a natural glow. It will not only smooth over pores and create a flawless base but, crucially, it will lock your make-up in place for hours.
Lifestyle Essentials: The Inner Glow
Remember, a radiant complexion isn't just about what you put on your skin; it’s about what you put into your body and how you treat it.
Drink Up: Make sure you're properly hydrated. Dehydrated skin looks tired and flat. Keep a glass of water nearby as you get ready.
Get Your Beauty Sleep: We know it’s tricky in December, but try your best to get quality sleep. Tired skin lacks the necessary circulation to look radiant.
The Morning After Reset
You’ve had a brilliant night, but now it’s time to be kind to your skin. Removing your make-up is the absolute minimum, but a little extra TLC will ensure you wake up looking refreshed, not ravaged.
1. Double Cleanse, Always
Even if you tumble into bed late, don't skip this. A quick wipe isn't enough to remove heavy party make-up.
The How-To: Start with a cleansing balm like IN THE BEGINNING Deep Cleansing Melt to dissolve all the make-up and SPF. Follow up with a gentle, creamy cleanser to ensure the skin is properly clean. BE GONE Kind Hearted Cleansing Creme is perfect as it is designed to leave your complexion healthy, settled and comforted.
2. Replenish Lost Moisture
Party environments can be drying and your skin has worked extra hard.
The How-To: Go heavy on the hydration. Use a richer moisturiser such as DOUBLE CREAM Hydrating Moisturiser. Your skin will thank you with a supple, soft feel when you wake.
This December, focus on nurturing your skin before and after the celebrations. A little prep goes a long way, ensuring your party glow lasts longer than your taxi ride home.