The holiday season is a time of joy, indulgence, and celebration—but it can also take a toll on your skin, body, and dental health. From overindulging in sugary treats to skimping on sleep and neglecting self-care routines, certain habits can leave lasting effects well into the new year. To help you navigate the season with confidence, we asked Haute Beauty experts to share the most common holiday habits that can negatively impact your health and their top recommendations to counteract them. With their advice, you can stay radiant, healthy, and ready to embrace the festive spirit without compromise.
Heather Merlo, Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics | Medical Spa | Tampa, FL
The holiday season is a time of joy and giving, but it often leads us to neglect our own self-care. One major habit that impacts skin, body, and dental health is overindulgence—whether it’s sugary treats, alcohol, or lack of sleep. Sugar and alcohol can dehydrate the body, dull the skin, and contribute to inflammation, while lack of rest impedes cellular repair, leaving skin tired and lackluster.
To counteract this, stay hydrated by increasing your water intake and balancing indulgences with nutrient-rich foods that include antioxidants and healthy fats to support skin and body health. Prioritize sleep and carve out time for quick self-care treatments, such as a resurfacing SaltFacial or a LUMECCA Peak IPL treatment to restore your glow.
Additionally, the season's busyness often causes us to skip skincare routines. Simplify your regimen with ZO Skin Health's GSR (getting skin ready): a medical-grade cleanser, complexion renewal pads to tone, and exfoliating polish. Even in the winter months, never forget to wear your SPF. Remember, while you’re caring for others this holiday season, it’s equally important to take a moment for yourself. Your well-being is the foundation for enjoying everything this time of year has to offer. As we close out 2024, let’s take a moment to celebrate the wins, reflect on the challenges, and look ahead to 2025 with a renewed focus on prioritizing self-care. Here’s to embracing growth, balance, and habits that support your well-being in the year to come!
For more information, visit Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics' website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Kiran Gill, Naples Aesthetic Institute | Body | Naples, FL
During the holiday season, common habits can negatively affect your skin, body, and dental health. Excess sugar from treats and sugary drinks can lead to acne and tooth decay, so it’s important to drink water, eat antioxidant-rich foods, and rinse your mouth after indulging. Alcohol dehydrates the skin and disrupts sleep, so stay hydrated with water between drinks and limit alcohol before bed. Skipping exercise can contribute to weight gain and lethargy, so try to stay active with short workouts or walks. Dry indoor air from heating can dry out the skin, so use a humidifier and apply richer moisturizers. Lack of sleep can impact both skin and immunity, so prioritize 7-8 hours of rest. Lastly, cold weather can chap skin and lips, so protect them with moisturizers, lip balm, and warm clothing. In short, it is ok to indulge but remember to pay attention to your health as well.
For more information, visit the Naples Aesthetic Institute's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Aesthetic Island NYC | Medical Spa | Brooklyn, NY
One common culprit is dehydration, often caused by indulging in alcohol and salty holiday foods. Dehydrated skin can look dull and accentuate fine lines. To counteract this, drink plenty of water and incorporate hydrating skincare products like hyaluronic acid and moisturizers. Treatments such as PRP facials or a quick IV hydration boost can also restore moisture from the inside out.
Another issue is stress, which can lead to breakouts and skin inflammation. To combat this, prioritize self-care and relaxation—whether it’s a facial treatment or a simple skincare routine at home. Regular use of antioxidants in your skincare can also help protect your skin from environmental stressors.
Finally, the holiday rush often means skipping sleep, which affects skin renewal and leads to dark circles. Incorporate brightening eye creams and consider treatments like Botox for a refreshed look.
The key is to balance enjoying the season, but take time to invest in your health and beauty. Aesthetic treatments are the perfect way to recharge and look your best for all your holiday celebrations!
For more information, visit Aesthetic Island NYC's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Malik Medical Aesthetics | Medical Spa | New Jersey
The holiday season brings joy, celebrations, and plenty of temptations that can challenge your health goals.
Indulging in sugary treats, skipping meals before big dinners, and enjoying a few too many holiday cocktails can contribute to weight gain and energy crashes. A packed holiday schedule can also make it difficult to stay active, while holiday stress may trigger emotional eating and unhealthy cravings.
The Medical Weight Loss Program at Malik Medical Aesthetics offers a science-backed solution to help you stay on track. By regulating appetite, reducing cravings, and promoting a lasting feeling of fullness, our program supports balanced eating and stabilizes blood sugar levels. It even helps curb stress-induced snacking, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the festive season.
Enjoy the holiday celebrations while managing your weight and well-being. Schedule your consultation today and take control of your health with expert care from Malik Medical Aesthetics.
For more information, visit Malik Medical Aesthetics's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Victoria A. Cirillo-Hyland, MD, FAAD | Skin | Philadelphia, PA
The holiday season often brings added stressors, from sleep deprivation to family dynamics and the indulgence in unhealthy foods and drinks during social gatherings. These factors can take a toll on our largest organ—our skin. The delicate area around our eyes tends to retain excess fluid, leading to dark circles, while acne, rosacea flare-ups, and dehydrated, rough skin often follow. The legendary Fire & Ice Facial is the perfect solution, offering a quick, no-downtime treatment to revitalize your skin. This treatment combines soothing warming and cooling sensations to rapidly and safely resurface the skin, leaving you feeling invigorated and refreshed. Often referred to as the “Red Carpet Facial,” it’s a favorite of both celebrities and non-celebrities for its immediate, effective results. The process begins with an intensive resurfacing masque to warm the skin, followed by a cooling rejuvenating masque to restore balance. The benefits? Reduced fluid retention and dark circles around the eyes, fewer acne and rosacea flare-ups, improved skin texture, and a noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Give your skin a “Glow Up” this holiday season with a Fire & Ice Facial!
For more information, visit Dr. Cirillo-Hyland's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Marianna Farber | Smile | Midtown NY
During the holiday season, sugary and sticky treats often take center stage, making frequent snacking a common indulgence. While delicious, these types of foods have a tendency to cling to teeth, creating the perfect environment for cavities to form. To protect your smile, consider minimizing your consumption of these sweet and sticky treats. If you do indulge, make it a point to brush and floss more diligently than usual to remove lingering residue and reduce the risk of tooth decay. Prioritizing your oral hygiene during the festivities will help you enjoy the season without compromising your dental health.
For more information, visit Dr. Marianna Farber's website and Instagram!
Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg | Face | Long Island, NY
The holiday season is a time for celebration, indulgence, and relaxation, but certain habits can take a toll on our skin, body, and overall health. Award-winning celebrity plastic surgeon Stephen T. Greenberg, M.D., F.A.C.S., gives us a closer look at some common pitfalls and how to navigate them.
- Overindulgence in Sugary Desserts and Treats: Excessive sugar consumption can lead to inflammation, which breaks down collagen and elastin, causing premature aging and acne flare-ups. It also contributes to weight gain and energy crashes.
- Solution: Practice moderation and choose healthier alternatives like fresh fruit or dark chocolate.
- Skipping Skincare Routines: Late nights and busy schedules often lead to neglecting skincare, resulting in clogged pores, dehydration, and dull skin.
- Solution: Use a simple but effective routine: cleanse, hydrate, and apply sunscreen daily, even in winter.
- Excess Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol dehydrates the skin, causing dryness and emphasizing fine lines. It can also disrupt sleep and contribute to weight gain.
- Solution: Alternate alcoholic beverages with water and opt for low-sugar drinks like soda water and lime.
- Stress and Lack of Sleep: Holiday stress increases cortisol levels, which can lead to breakouts and hinder skin healing. Lack of sleep accelerates aging and reduces the body’s ability to repair itself.
- Solution: Prioritize rest and practice stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.
- Eating Processed and Salty Foods: Processed foods and excess salt can cause water retention, bloating, and puffiness, especially around the eyes.
- Solution: Balance indulgent meals with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and plenty of water.
- Overexposure to Cold Weather: Cold, dry air strips moisture from the skin, leading to flakiness, redness, and irritation.
- Solution: Use a heavy-duty moisturizer and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Don’t forget lip balm to prevent chapping.
- Neglecting Exercise: A sedentary holiday season can lead to weight gain, decreased energy, and slower circulation, affecting the skin and overall health.
- Solution: Stay active with quick workouts or festive activities like ice skating or taking a brisk family walk.
- Ignoring Hydration: Busy schedules and colder weather often lead to drinking less water, resulting in dull skin and reduced energy levels.
- Solution: Carry a water bottle and drink herbal teas to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Overdoing DIY Treatments: Experimenting with new skincare or beauty treatments during the holidays can irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions.
- Solution: Stick to tried-and-tested products and consult professionals for the best products and ingredients for your particular skincare needs.
For more information, visit Dr. Greenberg's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
PA Reana Myers, Careaga Plastic Surgery | Medical Spa | Miami, FL
The holiday season is a busy time for everyone, often bringing increased stress, disrupted sleep, and changes to your skincare routine. Elevated stress can trigger breakouts and acne as oil production ramps up. Likewise, insufficient sleep slows down your skin's natural repair and regeneration, leaving it dull and fatigued.
Common holiday habits can also take a toll on your skin. Overindulging in alcohol dehydrates the skin, while sugary treats can cause inflammation and breakouts. Skipping hydration only adds to these challenges, and one of the biggest culprits—sleeping with makeup on—clogs pores and hinders your skin’s ability to recover overnight.
To keep your skin radiant during the holidays, prioritize self-care. Stay hydrated, limit sugar and alcohol, and stick to your skincare routine, no matter how hectic things get. Your skin will thank you!
For more information, visit Careaga Plastic Surgery's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Sam Rizk | Face | Upper East Side
In addition to neglecting SPF just because it’s winter, the first two that come to mind are consuming excess sugar and slacking on sleep hygiene, both of which can contribute significantly to things like inflammation, water retention, and cortisol production. If you lose control a bit in December, January is a great time for an intentional reset to get your healthy habits back on track. You’ve heard all this before, of course, so I’ll add a more surprising habit to the list: Smoking, which has inexplicably become popular again, especially with young people, despite how much we now know about the disastrous effects it has on our health. Speaking only about the toll it takes on the skin, I can say that smoking generates free radicals, which damage collagen and elastin, accelerating aging and leading to wrinkles. It also constricts blood flow, reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin and contributing to a dull and uneven complexion, and it slows wound healing significantly, increasing the risk of scars and accelerating oxidative stress, which contributes to discoloration. If you don’t feel compelled to quit for your heart or your lungs, do it for your skin.
For more information, visit Dr. Rizk's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Ralph Garramone | Body | Fort Myers
This is the most indulgent time of the year. Rest, hydration, and moderation are the key to staying in control.
Using the holidays as an excuse to be naughty with all of life’s guilty pleasures is easy, but you must set goals and stick to them.
You should schedule extra time for the gym and healthy meal planning at the beginning of December. Also, look ahead, how many parties will you attend? If you know it’s typically a wild one, schedule a hydration IV with extra Glutathione the next day in advance. Make an appointment for a massage once a week through December. Drink a gallon of high PH water daily, take extra Vitamin C and magnesium, and flush out the toxins. If sweets are your weakness, try to stay strong and have a few less bites. Staying strong and in control will help you breeze through the holiday temptations, and getting back on track on January 1st won't be so hard this year!
For more information, visit Dr. Garramone's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Michael Gartner | Face & Body | New Jersey
As a plastic surgeon, I'd say some of the biggest holiday season habits that can negatively impact your skin, body, or dental health include overindulging in sugary and fatty foods, excessive alcohol consumption, and neglecting your regular skincare routine. These habits can lead to breakouts, weight gain, and dental problems. To counteract these effects, I recommend moderating your intake of sweets and alcohol, staying hydrated, maintaining a consistent skincare regimen, and not skipping your usual workouts to maintain your weight and relieve stress.
For more information, visit Dr. Gartner's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Sarah Khan, ARA Med Spa | Medical Spa | Los Angeles, CA
Winter temperatures and the holiday season can wreak havoc on our skin, here are three top tips on what to avoid while enjoying the festive period.
During a cold winter day, nothing seems more relaxing than a long hot shower; however, this is a habit that can strip the skin of essential oils and moisture and leave your skin dry and irritated. If you are experiencing skin tightness and irritation, try to limit your shower time to less than 10 minutes and opt for a lukewarm temperature instead of hot water. Also, consider swapping out your regular cleanser for a more gentle moisturizing shower gel or oil. Ideally, remember to moisturize within a few minutes of jumping out of the shower when moisturizer is most powerful at sealing in hydration.
Winter facial skin is drier and more prone to irritation, and it is not a good time to layer your usual exfoliants such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids. Instead, it might be wise to limit their usage to every few days or skip them altogether if experiencing redness or sensitivity.
Skipping SPF is a common winter mistake. SPF is still as important during the winter months as it is in the summer, as the UV rays are still present when outdoors. Winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding are especially important times to be re-applying sun every few hours for maximum protection.
For more information, visit ARA Med Spa's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Husam Almunajed | Smile | New York, NY
During the holiday season, indulging in sugary treats and beverages is a big tradition that can negatively affect dental health. Holiday favorites like cookies, candies, cakes, and sugary drinks such as eggnog and hot cocoa can contribute to tooth decay. These foods and drinks provide fuel for bacteria in the mouth, which produce acids that erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities. Additionally, the constant grazing on snacks throughout the day extends the time your teeth are exposed to harmful sugars and acids.
To counteract this, moderation is key. Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks, and try to enjoy them alongside meals rather than as standalone snacks. Saliva production increases during meals, helping to wash away sugars and neutralize acids. Drinking water after consuming these guilty pleasures can also help rinse away sugar residues.
Another helpful tip is to prioritize good oral hygiene. Use mouthwash to start your oral hygiene care, and then brush your teeth thoroughly before bedtime. Flossing or water flossing is great for removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Carry a travel-sized toothbrush and floss when attending holiday gatherings to maintain your oral care routine. By balancing indulgence with healthy habits, you can protect your dental health while still enjoying the festivities.
For more information, visit Dr. Almunajed's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Kiran Mian, Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Skin | New York, NY
The holiday season is such a bright, joyous time, full of friends, family, and food! Of course, we want to enjoy ourselves with sweet indulgences, but overdoing it with sweets is one of the most common holiday habits I see that negatively impacts the skin. Sugar and high glycemic index foods increase inflammation in the skin and can trigger breakouts.
Another common habit I see is forgetting to cleanse at night. We are up late having fun at all the holiday parties and, understandably, are tired when we get home. However, going to sleep without washing your face can lead to oil buildup, clogged pores, and increased breakouts. Try simplifying your PM skincare routine during this time so it doesn’t feel so daunting, and cleanse your face as soon as you get home before you get too sleepy!
The holiday season is a special time and has some fun traditions. Holiday parties usually involve bubbly and eggnog, and while libations are so fun, alcohol can increase inflammation in the skin, dehydrate the skin and body, and trigger flares of chronic skin conditions. I see flares of rosacea, psoriasis, and acne during this time. While complete abstinence may not be necessary, make sure you are balancing your alcohol intake with just as much water, swap in a fun mocktail when you can, and, of course, always keep things in moderation!
Have a safe, healthy, and sparkling holiday season!
For more information, visit Dr. Mian's website and Instagram!
Dr. Aya Ahram, Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery | Skin | New York, NY
The holiday season is here, and we have a lot to celebrate as we wrap up the year! However, those celebrations can involve a lot of sweets! Sugar and other foods with a high glycemic index, such as white bread, chips, and rice, can all cause blood sugar spikes. These spikes can lead to overall inflammation in the body and an increase in oil production, which can manifest in the skin as an increase in acne. The increased inflammation can also worsen other inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea. Reaching for lower glycemic index foods such as vegetables, lean proteins, and beans can all help decrease overall inflammation in the body and prevent flares!
Another thing to watch out for during this holiday season is over-exfoliating! The weather is colder, and there is less humidity in the air, which means our skin tends to dry out more. You may have to alternate nights of products that contain active ingredients such as retinol or exfoliating acids to avoid disrupting the skin barrier. You may also need to switch from lotions/gel creams to thicker creams, such as Skinfix triple lipid peptide cream, to lock in hydration during the holiday months!
For more information, visit Dr. Ahram's website and Instagram!
Dr. Bertha Baum | Skin | Miami, FL
The holiday season is a time of joy, but indulgences and stress can take a toll on your skin and body health. One major culprit is overindulging in sugary treats and alcohol, which can trigger inflammation, exacerbate acne, and lead to dehydration. To counteract this, stay hydrated, limit alcohol intake, and prioritize a balanced diet rich in antioxidants like fruits and vegetables.
Stress is another common factor that can disrupt skin health, leading to flare-ups of conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Combat stress with regular self-care practices like mindfulness, yoga, or a brisk walk to promote overall wellness.
Late nights and disrupted sleep schedules are also common during the holidays, which can impair skin repair and lead to dull, tired-looking skin. To mitigate this, aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night and incorporate a nighttime skincare routine with hydrating serums or moisturizers.
Lastly, cold weather and indoor heating can dry out your skin. Use a gentle cleanser and apply a thick moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to lock in hydration. With these mindful habits, you can enjoy the festivities while keeping your skin and body in top shape.
For more information, visit Dr. Baum's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
Dr. Anna Chacon | Skin | Miami, FL
The holiday season often brings habits that can negatively affect skin health. Overindulgence in sugary treats and alcohol can lead to dehydration and inflammation, exacerbating conditions like acne or rosacea. Stress from busy schedules and travel can also trigger flare-ups of eczema or psoriasis. Late nights and lack of sleep disrupt skin repair processes, making it look dull and tired.
To counteract these effects, I recommend prioritizing hydration by drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol and sugary foods. Incorporate antioxidant-rich skincare products, like vitamin C serums, to combat free radical damage. Don’t skip sunscreen—even in winter—especially when attending outdoor holiday events. Lastly, make time for quality sleep and self-care to help your skin recover and stay healthy.
For more information, visit Dr. Chacon's website, Instagram, or Facebook!
