When it comes to the festive season, our first thought is always about the glitzy outfit we're going to wear, without necessarily paying attention to... our skin! Yet it too is about to experience a very special time. So how do you prepare your skin for the festive season (and even for a one-off evening out)? We tell you all about it.

The end-of-year festivities are fast approaching, and with them comes the desire for glowing skin to shine under the evening spotlights. Between the shimmering lights, the photos that immortalize these moments and the wintry conditions, giving your skin special attention at this time of year is the key to glowing. Here are all the essential tips for a holiday beauty routine that guarantees a radiant complexion and healthy skin, and that you can also apply all year round. 

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Plan a foolproof beauty routine

It's a fact: a solid beauty routine is the cornerstone of radiant skin. Start with a double cleansing (especially in the evening) to remove impurities, make-up and dead cells accumulated during the day. Choose a gentle cleanser that respects the natural balance of your skin type.

1. Cleaning, morning and night?

Cleansing is the crucial first step to beautiful skin, but be careful not to overdo it. Your skin doesn't need to be cleansed in the morning, but after the night you can simply spray it with water (which has the added benefit of waking you up nicely) or impregnate it with a tonic lotion (floral water is a very good alternative) before moving on to the next stages of your routine.

In the evening, however, cleansing is essential to remove make-up, dust, pollution and all sorts of residues left on the skin during the day. To do this, use a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type. If you live in a heavily polluted area (a conurbation like Paris), don't hesitate to double-cleanse to remove impurities deep down. Make sure you don't damage your skin, and respect its natural balance.

2. Toning to rebalance the skin

After cleansing in the evening, or simply before the morning routine, always apply a toner suited to your skin. This product removes cleanser residues, rebalances the skin's pH and prepares it to absorb future skin care products.

3. Specific care for the eye area

The delicate eye contour area requires special attention. Use a specific care product for this fragile area to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. Apply eye contour serum by patting, not rubbing, as the area under the eyes is a very fragile zone.

4. A serum to treat specific problems

Serums concentrated in active ingredients are ideal for targeting specific problems such as hydration, radiance, pigmentation spots or wrinkles. Choose one adapted to your needs.

5. Hydration adapted to your skin type

Moisturization is crucial for all skin types. Choose a moisturizing day and night cream suited to your skin type (very rich for dry skin and light for oily skin), making sure to cover your face, neck and décolleté.

6. Sun protection, even in winter

Don't forget sun protection. Even in the winter months, UV rays can damage the skin. If you're afraid of skipping this step, opt for a moisturizer or foundation with built-in SPF.

7. Weekly exfoliation

Once or twice a week, exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells and reveal a luminous complexion. Choose an exfoliant suited to your skin type to avoid irritation.

8. Masks and Intensive Care

Incorporate masks or intensive treatments once or twice a week to nourish, moisturize or treat specific skin problems.

9. Good internal hydration and a balanced diet

Don't forget that internal hydration is just as (if not more) important than external hydration. Drink enough water and opt for a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for radiant skin, and most of the work will be done.

10. A good night's rest

The night is a crucial time for skin regeneration. Make sure you don't stay up too late (before the holidays), and apply all the steps in this beauty routine to moisturize and repair your epidermis while you sleep.

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Include facial massage in your beauty routine 

It's a step we still don't think about automatically (enough). Yet facial massage has the power to multiply the effects of our skincare treatments and give our skin a well-deserved new glow. Here's why making it part of your routine is so beneficial this festive season:

1. Improved blood circulation

The circular or linear movements involved in facial massage stimulate blood circulation, promoting the supply of nutrients and oxygen to skin cells. This can help revitalize and tone the skin.

2. Reduction of stress and muscle tension

Accumulated tension in facial muscles can lead to a tired or tense appearance. Facial massage releases these tensions, reducing stress and providing a feeling of relaxation.

3. Stimulation of collagen production

Certain massage movements can help stimulate collagen production, promoting skin firmness and elasticity. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

@melissa.b__ What do you use to massage your face? #facialmassages #faceyoga #faceyoga #facemassage #faceyoga #yogaface #yogafacemassage ♬ Baby - Adrian Berenguer

4. Detoxification and elimination of toxins

Facial massage can help drain toxins accumulated in the skin, promoting a clearer complexion and more luminous skin.

5. Improved absorption of skincare products

By massaging your face after applying the various skincare products, you enhance their penetration by helping to distribute the active ingredients more evenly and make them penetrate deeper.

6. Reduction of Water Retention

Certain types of facial massage, such as lymphatic drainage, can help reduce water retention, thereby reducing puffiness and bags under the eyes.

7. Promotion of General Welfare

In addition to the benefits for the skin, facial massage can be a soothing experience, promoting a better connection with your body and an overall sense of well-being.

By tailoring these steps to your individual needs and staying regular, you can maintain healthy, glowing, beautiful skin day after day, during and after the excesses of the festive season.