Holiday Breakouts, Explained (and How to Chill Through Them)

Let’s be honest — holiday breakouts are practically a seasonal tradition at this point.
One minute you’re thriving, skin all dewy and confident, and the next you’re staring at your mirror like: “Why is there a new friend on my chin right before the holiday party?”

If that sounds familiar, you’re not doing anything wrong. Your skin’s just talking — and this time of year, it’s got a lot to say.

1. The Real Culprits Behind “Holiday Skin”

Let’s call them out:

Stress: The holidays are supposed to be calm and cozy, but in reality, most of us are running on caffeine and vibes. Stress raises cortisol, which spikes oil production — cue the breakouts.
Sugar + booze: Between peppermint bark, champagne, and charcuterie boards, our livers are working overtime. When your body’s detox pathways are maxed out, your skin steps in to help out (translation: inflammation + clogged pores).
Lack of sleep + hydration: Your body heals and detoxes while you sleep. When you cut corners on rest, your skin starts throwing subtle tantrums — dullness, flakiness, and those tiny stress bumps.
Skipping your routine: I get it — travel, late nights, “I’ll wash it in the morning” moments. But that’s when your skin needs consistency most.

2. How to Actually Chill (And Heal)

You don’t need a 12-step routine or an internet detox. You just need rhythm.

✨ Keep it simple:
Double cleanse, tone, treat, moisturize. Your basics matter more than the trendy stuff.

🌿 Reach for healing actives:
Face Reality’s Mandelic Serum is my go-to for clearing congestion without irritation. It’s like sending your skin to therapy — gentle but direct.

💧 Hydrate like it’s your job:
Drink water, yes, but also hydrate topically. Osmosis’s Hydrate Mist and Quench moisturizer are barrier angels. Think: plump, calm, “I slept 8 hours even if I didn’t.”

🧘🏽♀️ Breathe + decompress:
Five deep breaths before bed. Legs-up-the-wall. Sound bowl if you’re feeling extra. Because your nervous system and your skin are in a relationship — and they need quality time.

💆🏽♀️ Get a facial:
When in doubt, come lay down and let me do the heavy lifting. My holiday facials are all about clearing stagnation — from extractions to lymphatic drainage to pure “I can finally relax” energy.