Nursing your skin and body back to post-Christmas health
Dancing and cocktails, too much turkey, late nights frantically wrapping presents and lots of running round in the freezing weather to deliver Christmas cards – December is one of the most enjoyable months of the year, but there's no denying that it can take its toll.
So if you're already noticing the effects of Christmas indulgence, you may want to consider how you're going to get yourself into tip-top condition for the start of 2011.
Boston dermatologist Dr Ranella Hirsch advised Parade readers that the pressures of the holiday season could well exacerbate any existing skin conditions, such as blemish breakouts and dry patches.
For Dr Hirsch, the best treatment is always prevention. "Treat your skin well, slather on the sun protection and sneak rejuvenating activities into your routine," she advised.
Very sound advice – but what about when you wake up and the shadows under your eyes are a little more prominent than you'd like?
High calorie foods, mixed with generous helpings of mulled wine and all of those other delicious festive indulgences, can affect the condition of your skin more than you think, the Chicago Tribune reported.
One of the major effects of sugar and alcohol is dehydration, which can leave you bloated and prone to spots – as well as feeling tired, sluggish and fuzzy headed.
Skin expert Patricia Wexler advised ladies that water – and lots of it – is the way to get your skin back in shape and rebalance your body.
"The day after drinking, you have a red, puffy face, puffy eyes, bloodshot eyes and dry, dehydrated skin," she explained. "Best to drink lots of water — no caffeine."
In terms of products to keep your complexion glowing, Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist and owner of Wild Wood Groves, Ruth Hajioff, said that women should keep it simple and avoid overcompensating by using products laden with chemicals and additives.
"The best skin-rejuvenating ingredients occur naturally; at this time of year I'd recommend finding a natural skin care product that is ... specifically designed for your skin-type," Ms Hajioff explained.
You may still find, however, even when you've tried your best to follow these steps, that you still want to avoid the mirror come New Year's Day. What should you do then? Simple, ladies – fake it!
Celebrity makeup artist Ariane Poole suggested that every woman should invest in a multi-toned concealer, ivory eye shadow, navy eye liner and heated eye lashes curlers, in order to perk up your complexion and open those peepers the morning after the night before.
So, have a Merry Christmas and a glowing, healthy New Year!
Posted by Claire Thomson 
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