Beyond the Mirror: Holiday Skin Prep Guide

Welcome back to Beyond the Mirror — where we talk skin, self-care, and the real-life glow-ups that happen long before you open your makeup bag. ✨

The holidays are officially here, and that means glam, gatherings, and at least three group photos you didn’t know were happening. But before the foundation, the glitter lids, and the setting spray… your skin needs a little prep work to make everything sit smooth, radiant, and stress-free.

Let’s get into how to prep your skin this holiday season so your makeup hits different — and your glow lasts long after the party.

Start With a Clean Slate 🧼✨

A good beat starts with good cleansing. Between sweat, stress, and leftover products, your skin needs a fresh beginning.
Double cleanse if you’ve been wearing makeup or heavy SPF, and make sure your pores are ready for all the holiday glam coming their way.

Exfoliate (But Be Kind) 🧖🏽‍♀️✨

Holiday glam + textured skin = not a match.
Use a gentle enzyme or lactic acid exfoliant 1–2x a week to keep your skin smooth without overdoing it. You want soft, radiant skin — not a compromised barrier begging for help.

Hydration > Everything 💧🎄

Cold weather + indoor heat + holiday drinks = a dehydrated combo platter.
Boost hydration with:

• Hyaluronic acid

• Ceramides

• Squalane

• A richer moisturizer

Hydrated skin = makeup that melts in instead of sitting on top.

Don’t Skip Your Skin Barrier 🛡️✨

Your barrier is working overtime right now.
All the glam, late nights, sweating while wearing sweaters indoors — she’s going through it.
Make sure your routine includes something barrier-loving (think peptides, niacinamide, or anything soothing and calming).

Prime With Skin, Not Silicone ✨

If your skincare is solid, you won’t need heavy primers.
Healthy, hydrated skin naturally grips makeup better and makes everything look more seamless, smoother, and real-life filter level.

Treat Your Face Like a Canvas 🎨✨

Want your glam to last through selfies, dancing, and auntie’s loud holiday questions?
Schedule a facial about 5–7 days before your big event(s) to remove buildup, boost glow, and give your makeup the smoothest base possible.

And of Course… SPF Doesn’t Take Holidays Off ☀️✨

I know, I know. But we don’t argue with facts.
Even in winter, UV rays are outside minding their business… and we mind ours by protecting our skin.

Glow Now, Glam Later ✨

If you’re ready to go into the holidays with:
✔ A smoother base
✔ Longer-lasting makeup
✔ A glow that stays glowing
✔ Skin that’s healthy underneath the glam

Then this is your season to prep with intention.

Let’s take care of your base before you beat your face. 💋
Book your Holiday Glow Facial or Consultation here.