The festive season prompts many individuals to enhance their appearance, focusing on outfits, accessories, and makeup. Achieving a radiant glow is a common aspiration during this time. However, before opting for any skin treatment, it is essential to assess individual skin needs and the necessary recovery time for each procedure. Dr Kiran Hebbalkar, a consultant dermatologist and aesthetic physician, has provided insights into what constitutes a festive glow and suggested five professional treatments to consider with expert guidance.

A festive glow is often associated with smooth and flawless skin, but Dr Hebbalkar emphasises that true radiance stems from skin health rather than mere aesthetics. She explains that a festive glow is characterised by well-nourished skin, an intact skin barrier, and adequate hydration. Additionally, the absence of stress, inflammation, and fatigue contributes to an even reflection of light, resulting in a soft, fresh, and supple appearance.

The dermatologist also highlights the importance of internal factors in achieving this glow. Adequate water intake, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and proteins, along with the minimisation of sugar and fried foods, can significantly aid skin repair and prevent breakouts. Furthermore, Dr Hebbalkar recommends ensuring seven to eight hours of sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress levels to promote circulation and enhance skin colour.

Recommended Skin Treatments For The Festive Season

There is a variety of professional skin treatments available, but Dr Hebbalkar stresses that these should complement an established skincare routine rather than replace it. She notes that the timing of treatments is crucial; procedures like lasers and injectables should be scheduled well in advance of festive events to allow for adequate recovery. In the final days leading up to celebrations, it is advisable to focus on gentle treatments that the skin is accustomed to.

Among the recommended treatments is skin hydration injectables, specifically hyaluronic acid-based bioremodelling treatments like Profhilo. This treatment enhances hydration and elasticity without adding volume and is typically administered in two sessions spaced four weeks apart, making it the first treatment to schedule.

Another option is fractional laser resurfacing, which utilises hybrid lasers such as Alma Hybrid. This treatment combines both ablative and non-ablative energy to improve skin texture, tone, and reduce fine lines in a single session. However, it may result in several days of redness and peeling, making it suitable only for those who can complete it well before the festive period.

Final Preparations For Festive Celebrations

Hydrating facials are also a viable choice, offering a combination of cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and serum infusion to eliminate dull surface cells while providing immediate hydration. This treatment has no downtime and is effective when scheduled about a week prior to significant events.

Superficial chemical peels using mandelic or lactic acid can brighten dull skin and are generally well-tolerated, especially by those with sensitive or deeper skin tones. These peels are best conducted as a short series concluding at least a week before Diwali, as light flaking may occur afterwards.

Lastly, LED light therapy utilises red and near-infrared wavelengths to calm redness and support barrier repair following other treatments. This method is ideal for the final days leading up to celebrations, as it involves no downtime and serves as a soothing adjunct treatment. Dr Hebbalkar reiterates the importance of sequencing and timing for each treatment, recommending that injectables and laser procedures be prioritised, followed by peels and facials, with gentle treatments reserved for the last few days.

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