The Lo Down: Post-festive season recovery

Here are four easy steps to help prepare you (and your skin) for the year ahead.

Step 1: Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the process of scrubbing off dead skin cells to get the appearance of fresher, ‘younger’ skin by unclogging pores and cleaning the skin. While in the shower or bath, apply a gentle scrub on the face and neck being careful to avoid the delicate eye area. Massage the scrub in for around 30 seconds to promote circulation.

I recommend: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Line Smoothing Exfoliator and Mio Skincare Double Buff Dual Action Enzyme Exfoliator.

Step 2: Cleanse

If you’ve been spending long hours outdoors and drinking more cocktails than usual, chances are that your skin is feeling tight and dehydrated. A deep, thorough cleanse will get you back on the path to healthy, glowing skin. Use a gentle, oil-free foaming cleanser to remove dirt and makeup without stripping away your skin’s moisture.

I recommend: Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash and Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Cottonseed.

Step 3: Mask

Soft and healthy skin can be easily achieved by incorporating a regular face mask into your beauty regime. Choose masks that contain natural ingredients which promote skin elasticity, reduce blemishes, tighten your skin’s pores, and help to protect your skin from sun damage. Before applying any mask, make sure that you first test out the mask ingredients on a small portion of your skin, in order to check for any irritation or sensitivity.

I recommend: Clarins HydraQuench Cream Mask, Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque, Skin Ceuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

Step 4: Apply

Hydration is key to promoting healthy skin. After your cleansing routine, make sure you apply a good moisturiser with an SPF to see you through the day. Choose a moisturiser based on your skin type to reduce breakouts, minimise redness, and offset dryness.

I recommend: Lancôme Visionnaire Advanced Skin Corrector and Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Intensive Daily Moisturiser SPF15. 

Leigh is a weekly beauty and fashion columnist. For more tips and information on beauty and fashion trends, follow her on twitter: @Le1ghLo.