Long days in the sun, salty air, late nights and cocktails — while holidays do wonders for the soul, they’re often less kind to your skin. From dehydration and dullness to unexpected breakouts, the post-holiday skin slump is all too real.
Enter Laura Porter, a dedicated Facialist and Skincare Expert who’s treated thousands of complexions over her career. Drawing on her wealth of experience, Laura shares five lesser-known — but seriously effective — tips to help you bounce back fast. Whether you’re battling dryness, inflammation or that tell-tale post-sun fatigue, these expert-approved tricks will have your skin glowing again in no time…
Prioritise a Gentle but Deep Double Cleanse
Your skin has likely been exposed to layers of SPF, sweat, and environmental stressors — all of which can clog pores and lead to dullness. Start with an oil based cleanser to melt away sunscreen and makeup, then follow with a nourishing cream or gel cleanser to rebalance.
Book in for a Lymphatic Drainage Facial (or use a Gua Sha)
Post holiday puffiness and dullness are common after flying and sun exposure. A lymphatic facial is not just a luxury, it helps reduce water retention, support detoxification, and bring back that post-facial glow. If you’re unable to book in for this, a Gua Sha is also a brilliant tool for at home massage that you can do yourself.
Use Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) Instead of AHAs
PHAs offer gentle exfoliation without the sting or inflammation often caused by stronger acids. This is ideal if your skin is feeling sensitive after sun exposure. They also attract moisture, so they exfoliate and hydrate in one step.
Apply a Barrier Repair Serum Nightly
The sun, saltwater, and even hotel aircon can strip your skin of essential lipids. A barrier repair serum replenishes what’s been lost and strengthens your skin’s natural defences.
Don’t Ditch Vitamin C — But Switch Your Formula
Vitamin C is still your post summer powerhouse: it brightens, helps fade sun-induced pigmentation, and supports collagen production. But if your skin feels more reactive, try switching to a gentler, oil-soluble form like tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate.
So, before you panic at the sight of post-holiday skin woes, remember that a few expert tweaks can make all the difference. With Laura Porter’s tried-and-tested tips, you’ll be back to glowing, hydrated, and healthy-looking skin in no time. Because the only thing your skin should be bringing home from holiday — is the glow
