The holiday time is approaching. The air swells, the markets are flooded with color and the clothes are coordinated down to the last detail. In all this excitement, one thing often gets lost until the last minute, our skin. Imagine wearing your dream holiday outfit only to realize your skin looks tired and dull. Not the atmosphere, right?
That’s why this year, instead of scrambling for a last-minute response, let’s start cultivating the holiday glow a little earlier. All you need is a minimalist natural skin care routine centered around vitamin C, retinol + hydration to look lit from within by the time Dussehra rolls around. And no, it doesn’t have to be a 10-step K-beauty ritual. Think of it as the smart girl’s “guide to holiday sparkle.
Because preparing early really matters
Here’s the thing. Makeup looks more beautiful when the skin is already healthy and glowing. If your skin is tired or dry or textured, no amount of highlighter will fake a fresh-faced glow. If you prepare well in the previous weeks, it’s not just about coverage, it’s about responding to what your skin really needs.
Step 1: Start with a clean canvas
Every routine starts with washing your face, but during the holiday preparations, it’s non-negotiable. Pollution, sweat, and all that time you spend browsing stores can clog your pores.
If removing makeup at night, use a creamier face wash or double cleanse. And your future self and skin will thank you.
Step 2: Mix in Vitamin C Glow Boost
Now comes the exciting part, the vitamin C skincare. If there’s one ingredient that can transform your skin before a festival, it’s this. It just softens and brightens you and gives you that real natural glassy look.
Step 3: Moisturize like it’s your job
Let’s be honest, holiday prep means late nights, extra coffee and maybe not enough water. All of this shows up as dull, tired skin. Hydration is the secret weapon here.
Apply a moisturizer or moisturizer based on your skin type. Gel formulas are perfect for oily skin, while richer, creamier formulas serve dry skin well. And oh, don’t forget to drink water.
Step 4: Retinol for overnight renewal
Vitamin C takes care of your mornings and retinol takes care of your nights. If you’ve ever wondered how some people naturally always look like they’ve had eight hours of sleep, retinol may be their secret. Smoothes, renews and helps with fine lines and uneven texture.
Start with a gentle and slow approach, two to three times a week at night. Apply a pea-sized amount after cleansing and seal with moisturizer. Be regular in its absorption and see how in no time your skin becomes brighter and smoother this Dussehra. And don’t forget: Retinol works while you sleep, so give it some space.
Step 5: Don’t neglect the area under your eyes
In the club, nothing says “Party till sunrise” like puffy eyes or dark circles. With all this pre-holiday craziness, shopping, work, and the like, your undereyes could use a little more love. It’s not just vanity, an under eye cream hydrates and makes concealer go on like a DREAM.
Step 6: Sunscreen every day
It’s not glamorous, but that’s all that counts. All that time you spent on vitamin C, hydration, and retinol is nothing if you don’t protect the skin during the day.
Quick Festive Glow Hacks You’ll Love
Try a facial massage with your moisturizer for five minutes. It boosts circulation and leaves you naturally flushed.
Don’t ignore your lips! Rub and hydrate them to keep your lipstick looking smooth.
If your skin feels too dull, apply a sleeping mask overnight. You’ll wake up with brighter, smoother skin.
A quick face spray during the day keeps your glow fresh even on busy shopping sprees.
A simple routine that you can actually stick to
Morning
1. Cleaner
2. Vitamin C serum
3. Moisturizing cream
4. Cream under the eyes
5. Sunscreen
Night
1. Cleaner
2. Retinol serum
3. Moisturizing cream
4. Cream under the eyes
That’s all. No overcomplication, no twenty bottles crowding your dresser. Just a few smart products that cover all your skin’s festive needs.
The Takeaway
Dussehra is a time for light, joy and new beginnings. And we want your skin to tell us about it. Add some vitamin C to brighten it up, a retinol to refresh your skin and a moisturizer to plump things up, you’ve got the nuts and bolts of a simple but powerful glow routine. Add an under-eye cream and sunscreen, and you’re golden. Start now, stick with it, and until the holiday lights are in full force, so will your skin. Because there’s nada like cruising a party and your glow is more real than real.
Frequently asked questions
Can vitamin C and retinol be used together?
Vitamin C is used in the morning and retinol in the evening. You may not want to use both at the same time or it may be irritating especially for people with sensitive skin.
When can I start this program before Dussehra?
Ideally, you should really start 2-3 weeks before the festival to get good results.
How much retinol should I use?
Start with 2-3 nights a week. Gradually increase usage as your skin gets used to the product.
Does this routine also work for oily skin?
Absolutely. Opt for gel-based moisturizers and lightweight serums to keep the weight at bay while keeping you hydrated and glowing.
Need an under eye cream, period?
Yes. Even if you don’t have dark circles, it will help keep sensitive skin hydrated and fade away fine lines.
