Get Your Glow On

Ah, that holiday atmosphere! The chilly outdoors and toasty indoors dry the air--and your skin. Here are some tips to help you glow even when you're not next to a fire.

1. Humidify your environment.

• Humidifiers add moisture to the air which moistens your skin. Place humidifiers throughout your home and in your office.

2. Liven up your face.

• Masks, chemical peels or microdermabrasion exfoliate (remove) dead skin cells and reveal a fresher-looking you. Exfoliation also boosts your skin's penetration of moisturizers, creams and oils.
• If you have dry skin, avoid harsh peels or masks. Don't use clay-based products because clay draws moisture out of your skin.
• Stay away from alcohol-based toners or astringents because they strip oil from your skin.
• Use products with vitamins A, C and E for antioxidant protection.

3. Use oil-based moisturizers--the oil creates a barrier against moisture loss.

• "Ointments" contain the most oil because they contain 80% oil and only 20% water.
• Use products that contain "humectants" such as glycerin, sorbitol or alpha-hydroxy acids, which attract moisture to your skin. Those with non-clogging oils such as avocado, mineral, primrose or almond oil are best.
• Your daytime moisturizing ointment should contain a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or more. Apply 30 minutes before going outside to protect your skin from sun damage. Yes, even weaker winter rays can harm your skin.

4. Be good to your lips.

• Keep them moist and soft with a weekly lip scrub and moisturizing regime.
• Prevent dryness and chapping by applying gloss, balm or lipstick.

5. Be wise about your eyes.

• Moisturize with a gentle product that's formulated for use around the eyes.
• Prevent puffiness by elevating your head with 2 or more pillows when you sleep so fluid doesn't get trapped in your lower eyelids.
• Use cold compresses to reduce dark circles.

6. Get your beauty sleep.

• Because your face is relaxed and less affected by gravity when you sleep, those 8 hours in dreamland help smooth facial wrinkles and lines.
• Research suggests that anti-aging products are more potent when you use them at night and that skin may be more receptive to active ingredients while you sleep.
• Skin cell regeneration is slightly faster at night. So don't forget to apply your facial ointments before