BEST SKIN TREATMENTS BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS

What are the best treatments to make my skin look its best before the holidays?

Anon, Whenuapai

The lead-up to the holidays often shows on our skin.  Warm weather, late nights, Christmas shopping and the general rush of December can leave your face looking a little tired (coffee anyone?!).  Many people ask me what the best treatment is to look and feel fresher before the holidays, especially when they want something quick and simple that still makes a noticeable difference.

When someone wants fast results, I often start by looking at expression lines.  Fine lines around the frown, forehead and eyes tend to show more when the skin is tired.

Botox® can soften these areas and create a lighter, well-rested look without changing your natural expression.  It is a straightforward option with minimal downtime, and the results settle in over the following few days, with maximal results achieved at two weeks.  For many people, this alone is enough to look and feel confident heading into the social season.

Skincare is just as important, especially when time is short.  A good routine can refresh

the skin very quickly.  I recommend simplifying things in the lead-up to the holidays, using evidence-based skincare brands such as ZO, Synergie and Emepelle.  A gentle cleanser, an active serum and a barrier-supporting moisturiser from these ranges help brighten the skin and reduce dullness.  When the barrier is steady and hydrated, the skin looks smoother and glows.  Even small changes in skincare can make us look and feel fresher.

No holiday routine is complete without sunscreen.  Consistent SPF is one of the most powerful ways to keep the skin bright and even throughout summer.  Sun exposure can undo improvements very quickly, especially when you are outdoors more often.  A lightweight SPF such as Heliocare used every morning prevents new pigmentation, protects collagen and helps maintain treatment results.  The added bonus of Heliocare is that it has a slight tint that blends beautifully with any natural skin tone, giving a luminous finish that can easily blend with concealer and set with a light mineral powder to give a natural glowy look without the aged, matte appearance of foundation.

So, what is the best way to refresh your skin before the holidays?  For most people it is a combination of softening key expression lines with Botox® and supporting the skin with a nourishing skincare routine backed by daily SPF.  These steps work together to create a natural, rested look that carries you confidently through the holiday season.  Merry Christmas everyone!

Quick Answers

When should I get Botox® before the holidays?

You should plan Botox® around two weeks before events. Results begin within a few days, with full effect seen at about 14 days.

Is it too late to improve my skin before the holidays with skincare?

No. Barrier support, hydration and active serums can improve brightness and texture within days, especially when the routine is kept simple and consistent.

Should cosmetic treatments be done all at once or staggered?

Staggered treatments usually look more natural. Combining subtle Botox® with skincare allows changes to settle without a rushed or overdone results.

Does sunscreen really make a visible difference to skin over summer?

Yes. Daily SPF helps prevent new pigmentation and collagen damage, which directly affects skin brightness, texture and how long treatment results last.

If you have a question for Dr. Heather you would like answered anonymously, please email askdrheather@allor.co.nz.