George Condo’s *The Cracked Cardinal* (2001) is not the Winter Wonderland look we’re going for.

When the winter solstice sets, we are still in the glow of the holiday season. Except when we step outside into the blistering arctic tundra on our way back to work and regular life. sometimes this leads to skin looking like a George Condo instead of a Monet. Our beauty and skincare needs should prioritize adjusting from party mode to survival mode. The cold weather and darker days dry the skin and the mood. Brightening up dark cold days with unforgettable reds and nourishing skin with effective ingredients can get us glowing by Spring.

Skin

Winter is the perfect time to address skin dilemmas with treatments that are UV-shy. Hyperpigmentation is a common issue that takes time to repair and is exacerbated by the sun. A go-to strategy for me is to treat, moisturize and prevent with manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) and an SPF. Manjistha Discoloration Lotion by Pratima Skincare works on the surface to reduce dark spots. The subtle citrus smell brightens the mood. Sun protection can be reduced to an SPF 30 since the rays are not as strong. Neem Rose Face Sunscreen by Pratima combats hyperpigmentation by treating, protecting and preventing damaging environmental agents. The neem and rose are healing and calming to the dermis due to their content of vitamin C.

Manjistha usually works from within to purify blood of the toxins that contribute to hyperpigmentation. It can have the same effects when applied topically. (Image: AKJAM Publishing)

Lips

Fighting dry lips from cold weather and cold fevers is an expected winter adventure. The Tatcha Kissu lip mask has squalene and camellia to soften, and Japanese peach extract and palmytoil tripeptide-1 to plump. Red lipstick never fails producing a strong pout. I prefer Chanel’s reds in their Rouge Allure Velvet formula. The matte has a soft and moisturizing texture.

Eyes

Saffron answers the call for dry skin around the eyes during dehydrating, chilly months when purplish circles can look like leftover eye makeup. Crocus sativus, or the iris-family flower saffron is from, prevents UVB-induced photoaging. The Saffron Eye Ghee by Pratima Skincare sounds heavy, but it is moisturizing without being overly weighty. It also has firming triphala and toning rose. Also, why not carry over some holiday spirit? Gold eye shadow and a swipe of mascara help brighten up tired winter eyes and mood.

Nails

Straightforward, short, red nails during winter months adds a bit of surprise when removing gloves. Long-wavelength red is also associated with attractiveness and motivation, according to science. The original Rouge Louboutin is the perfect red, easy to apply and provides a beautiful shine. One coat usually does it so this doesn't become a back-to-work interruption.

Body

Winter coincides with less movement, which results in stagnation that is not great for lymph systems. Self-massage, like abhyanga, helps release toxins and improves circulation out of that sluggish state. Applied topically, ashwagandha rejuvenates and bergamot stimulates in order to detoxify oily (fat) build up. Pratima Skincare’s Kali Rai Revitalizing Body Oil has both, adds warmth and counters the lack of rigorous activities when the frigid weather is more inviting to movie marathons than NYC marathons.