If your calendar starts filling up with family dinners, office parties, and way-too-many photos by mid-December, now is the moment to get your skin on a schedule. Here’s a simple six-week countdown plan to get your complexion glowing by Christmas or New Year's Eve.

Week 1: Hit Reset With a Gentle Peel

Think of this as spring cleaning for your face. Start your glow-up with a light exfoliating peel to sweep away dull surface cells. Look for formulas with lactic or mandelic acid; both are effective yet kind to skin. If you prefer a pro touch, book an in-office peel now so your skin has time to renew before party season hits. Follow with extra hydration for the next few days to keep everything calm and smooth.

Week 2: Deep Nourishment Mode

Once you’ve revealed that new layer, it’s time to feed it. Focus on moisture — rich creams, barrier-restoring serums, and plenty of water inside and out. Add a few minutes of facial massage at night to boost circulation. If your skin tends to be dry or tight in winter, swap your foaming cleanser for a cream or balm formula this week. Small tweaks now make a big difference later.

Week 3: Introduce a Targeted Serum

By now, your skin is prepped to absorb the good stuff. Whether you want to even tone, fade spots, or add bounce, introduce a serum that fits your goal. Vitamin C for brightness, peptides for firmness, niacinamide for balance — take your pick. You can also explore another cult-favorite serum for that extra antioxidant boost. Patch-test and start slowly (every other night is fine). You’ll see results in time for the festivities, without the risk of irritation.

Week 4: Book Your Facial or Laser Treatment

This is your treatment week. If you’re planning a professional facial, microdermabrasion, or laser session, schedule it now — not right before your events. That gives your skin at least two weeks to settle and shine. Tell your esthetician about your holiday timeline so they can customize your session for maximum glow and minimal downtime.

Week 5: Polish and Perfect

Now that your skin is in good shape, it’s all about maintenance. Exfoliate gently once or twice this week to keep texture smooth. Use a hydrating mask before makeup-heavy days or nights out. And don’t skip sunscreen — even in winter light, UV damage dulls your results.

Week 6: Lock In the Glow

It’s showtime! Stick with your nourishing routine and scale back on anything new. Keep your cleanser mild, moisturize morning and night, and sleep a little more (it’s the cheapest glow trick out there). A few ice cubes wrapped in gauze pressed over your face before makeup can also wake up tired skin instantly.

By the time the holidays roll around, your complexion will be calm, bright, and camera-ready — no highlighter required.

Final Tip

Consistency beats perfection. If you miss a night or forget a mask, don’t panic. Skin responds best to care that’s steady and kind — just like the way we all hope to end the year.