This piece on how to treat pre-event breakouts originally appeared on the John Lewis Christmas blog in 2020, but it is relevant all year around! We all know the fear of the pre-event break out so here is a guide to why this happens, how to avoid it and what to do about it.

Why do we often break out the day before a big event? 

Pre-event breakouts can be connected to stress. Often before a big event (like a wedding, a big party or special occasion), we might be more anxious as the day gets closer. This can lead to an increase in our body releasing stress hormones, which can impact the sebum production within our skin.

And how would you treat a pre-event break out?

Don’t squeeze unless it has a white head on it! You can apply something antibacterial to it, such as tea tree oil, TCP, or if you have a skincare product with some acids, especially salicylic acid, in them you can apply with a cotton bud onto the area once every hour. 

I always apply an ice compress as well to help take down inflammation. Wrap an ice cube in tissue, dampen just slightly then hold onto the area for five to twenty seconds. You can repeat this process. 

 

If you want your skin to be looking its glowing best, is there anything you should be doing (or avoiding!) the night before? 

Firstly, don’t suddenly try a new product. Now is not the time to be testing new things. If you know your skin glows after using an acid toner the night before, then this is my first choice, or an at home peeling mask. If your skin is prone to dryness, then maybe a more hydrating mask. Avoid an eye mask just in case it makes you come up puffy in the morning, however I do love an eye mask or eye patches on the day of the event. They are great for hydrating and plumping the skin so concealers sit on smooth. 

Are there any beauty rituals you can incorporate into your routine if you’re feeling anxious before a big event?

I’m a huge fan of breathing techniques, focusing on your breath for one to three minutes. Inhale for a slow count of five, exhale for a slow count of eight.

Facial massage is a brilliant way to boost your complexion while easing your mind! And a few neck stretches with your eyes closed is great for easing neck tension.

What does your ultimate pre-Christmas skincare routine look like?

There are so many options:

Double cleansing – use a balm first, then a face massage followed by a wash. Use an acid exfoliating tonic, followed by an enzyme mask, followed by a hydrating mask (over the decollete as well) a Hyaluronic Acid (HY) serum and a Vitamin C type serum for brightening the skin, a nourishing eye cream, plumping moisturiser (this would all be for a treat!). 

If I wanted to do an evening prep, I would do a face massage five to ten mins – followed by a gentle wash, brightening mask, HY serum and some sort of probiotic skin boost.

Products I recommend for break outs (these links contain affiliate links where I may earn a small commission from purchases):

• Cosmedix Purity Exfoliating Cleanser
• Cosmedix Purity Detox Scrub
• Cosmedix Clarity Anti Blemish Serum
• IS Clinical Active Serum
• IS Clinical Hydra-Cool Serum

Download my free Cleansing Guide here.