Festive season skincare guide: A simple steps to follow 7 days before the celebrations for healthy, glowing skin

From cleansing to moisturising, here’s a simple 7-day skincare routine to follow before the festive season.

Skincare isn't a one-size-fits-all approach or an overnight process. It delivers results with consistency and time. With the festive season booming in India, if you want a festive glow that reflects in your pictures, it’s time to start your skincare routine. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Afroz Alam, MBBS, MD, consultant dermatologist and assistant professor at Online Chikitsa Mitra, shared a day-wise skincare routine you can follow for a festive glow.

Day 1: Reset the basics

Strip your routine back to three steps: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser, and a sunscreen. Put away harsh scrubs and anything that leaves your face feeling tight or squeaky. Check expiry dates, and wash your makeup brushes and sponges. “If your skin has been reacting to something, a simpler routine will often show you what it was,” said Dr Alam.

Strip your routine back to three steps: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser, and a sunscreen.

Day 2: Hydrate, inside and out

“Sunscreen is the most underrated glow product there is. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or above every morning, even on cloudy days, and reapply if you are stepping out,” highlighted Dr Alam. The festive season also brings firecracker smoke and rising pollution in many of our cities. Cleanse thoroughly every night to remove the day's grime, and if your skin tolerates it, add an antioxidant serum such as vitamin C in the morning.

Day 4: Exfoliate gently, just once

A little exfoliation helps fresh skin show through, but more is not better. If your skin is used to it, one session this week with a mild chemical exfoliant, such as lactic acid, is plenty. If you have sensitive skin, active acne, or rosacea, skip it altogether. And please, no new peels, facials, or treatments in the week before a big occasion. If your skin reacts, it can take days to settle, and that is exactly the time you don't have.

Day 5: Address what bothers you

For an oily T zone or uneven tone, niacinamide is a gentle, well-tolerated option. For a sudden pimple, a spot treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide works better than squeezing, which only leaves a mark that lasts longer than the festival. If you do want to try anything new, patch test it first on the inner arm for 48 hours.

Day 6: Remember your lips, hands and feet

Festive preparations are hard on hands. Cleaning, cooking, mehendi and diya oil all can take a toll. Keep a hand cream next to the sink and use it after every wash. Use a simple lip balm throughout the day and before bed, and soak and moisturise your feet if you plan to wear open footwear.

For an oily T zone or uneven tone, niacinamide is a gentle, well-tolerated option.

Day 7: Sleep, then keep it simple

Your skin does much of its repair work while you sleep, so aim for seven to eight hours the night before. On the day, cleanse, moisturise and apply sunscreen before makeup, which always sits better on well moisturised skin. And however late the celebrations go, remove your makeup before you sleep.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.