Festive Skincare Do's and Don'ts: Avoiding Common Mistakes

The festive season is a time for celebration, but it can also be harsh on your skin due to the constant exposure to makeup, long hours, and environmental stressors. To maintain a radiant, healthy complexion during the festivities, following a well-balanced skincare routine is essential. Leading experts from India’s beauty and wellness industry —  share their valuable insights on the do’s and don’ts of festive skincare.

Do’s for Festive Skincare

1. Hydrate Your SkinDivita Kanoria, founder, TATHA, emphasizes the importance of keeping your skin well-hydrated during the festive season. “You should use a good moisturizer rich in plant stem cells to keep your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin looks supple and vibrant, which is perfect for festivals,” she advises. A well-moisturized face not only helps makeup sit better but also enhances the natural glow, a key for looking radiant during celebrations.Dr Geeta Grewal, Cosmetologist and Founder, 9 Muses Wellness Clinic also stresses the need to hydrate from within. “Stay well-hydrated by drinking lots of water to keep your complexion glowing,” she suggests. Maintaining hydration both internally and externally will give your skin that festive glow.
2. Incorporate Sunscreen

   Even during the winter months, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is critical. Kanoria advises using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, explaining that “even during the festive season, sunscreen is necessary to prevent UV damage.” Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog your pores or interfere with your makeup.

3. Exfoliate Gently

   Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and promotes a smoother, more even complexion. Dr. Grewal recommends a gentle exfoliation routine to “eliminate dead skin cells, encouraging a sleek look.” Siddhanth Dua, CEO, Affinity Salons echoes this, advising regular exfoliation but with mild products to prevent skin irritation.

4. Tailor Your Skincare to the Season

As the weather changes, so should your skincare. Dua stresses the importance of adjusting your skincare routine to combat dryness during the winter months. He advises choosing richer creams or oils to maintain skin moisture and prevent dryness, ensuring your skin stays radiant throughout the festive season.

Don’ts for Festive Skincare

1. Don’t Overdo TreatmentsIt’s easy to get carried away with multiple skincare treatments, but Kanoria advises against trying too many new products right before festivals. “Avoid using too many active products or treatments right before the festivals. Stick to tried and tested products to avoid irritation,” she warns. This helps prevent any adverse reactions like breakouts, redness, or rashes right before major events.Dua adds, “Avoid overloading your skin with too many new products at once.” It’s better to stick to familiar skincare that your skin already responds well to.
2. Don’t Forget Your Night Care Routine
   Nighttime is crucial for skin repair, and neglecting it can hamper your skin’s recovery process. Kanoria emphasizes, “Don’t skip your nighttime routine—use a nourishing night cream or serum to aid your skin’s recovery.” Restorative night care helps heal the skin from the day’s stressors, ensuring it stays fresh and vibrant. Dr Grewal agrees, encouraging people to “prioritize sleep to assist your skin in rejuvenating.” Ensuring you get enough rest helps prevent issues like dark circles, puffiness, and dullness.
3. Don’t Neglect Your Neck and Décolletage
   Dua stresses the importance of extending your skincare beyond the face. “Don’t neglect your neck and décolletage,” he advises, explaining that these areas are just as prone to signs of aging and need care just like the face.
4. Don’t Forget to Remove Makeup
   One of the most common mistakes during the festive season is not properly removing makeup after a long day. Dua reminds us, “Never forget to remove your makeup before sleeping to avoid clogging of pores.” Failing to remove makeup can lead to breakouts, dull skin, and even premature aging.
5. Don’t Forget to Relax

Beyond the physical aspects of skincare, mental well-being plays a significant role in how your skin looks and feels. “Stress can affect your skin,” warns Kanoria, urging individuals to take time for relaxation and self-care. Whether through meditation, a calming bath, or some time away from the festivities, relaxation can help reduce stress-related skin issues, ensuring a glowing complexion.

By following these expert tips, you can navigate the festive season without compromising the health and beauty of your skin. Hydration, sun protection, gentle exfoliation, and proper rest will keep your skin radiant and celebration-ready, while avoiding over-treatment and ensuring proper care will prevent common mistakes that could dull your glow.