THE HOLIDAYS MAY BE OVER BUT CONSEQUENCES of recent self-indulgence remain. The usual problems are weight gain, acne and dull, blotchy skin.

These are the quick but safe remedies I have relied on over the years to recover from my post-holiday disasters.

Weight control

Unless you are gifted in the metabolism department, gaining at least five to 10 pounds from the holidays is unavoidable. One thing I have learned is not to wait until you get gigantic.

Pascual?s Psyllium fiber capsules taken at least twice a day before eating, with a tall glass of water, will cut down one?s appetite and break down the food so you can easily digest, then get rid of what your body does not need. It also binds cholesterol, uric acid and other toxins that cause weight gain and certain ailments.

Drink lots of water because an inadequate amount will cause Psyllium to harden and block digestion and circulation. Take four hours before or after medication or vitamins to make sure the body has absorbed enough.

Note: Some people are resistant or allergic to Psyllium and their abdomen just swells when water and fiber mix. If you start swelling, discontinue use.

Acne

Those with oily skin go to a dermatologist to have their pimples injected with cortisone and have other pore cloggers extracted. Stings, yes, but this is the fastest way for them to disappear. An anti-acne skincare regimen alone will take months for skin to improve.

Use a skincare regimen to prevent new ones from coming and to maintain results. All dermatologists and most skin clinics have this basic inexpensive service ranging from P50 to P200 per pimple injection.

Dull, blotchy skin

This may sound the least serious but it is noticeable and most people are clueless on how to deal with them. Incorporate skin-brightening essences or serums/boosters after cleansing and toning like Kiehl?s Skin Tone Corrector, Lancome Blanc Expert, Laneige Star White Spot and Awake?s Vital Express.

Makeup that heals and prevents as it enhances?Clinique Bright-C Powder Makeup SPF 29/PA+++ (SRP P1,750).

The highest sun protection (SPF) product in Clinique?s makeup history provides the first line of defense against UV exposure and environmental irritants which can lead to discoloration. The lightweight and airy whitening powder makeup, appropriate for all skin types, provides a pleasant feeling during wear while concealing dark spots and evening skin tone, leaving behind a beautiful, natural finish. No matter what the season or environment, skin is kept fresh and luminous all day.

Formulated with ?antioxidants and a unique calming complex? which help brighten and protect skin from environmental aggressors and UV rays.

A silky smooth powder texture including Vitamin C Complex to soothe current skin irritation before that irritation turns into a dark spot.

The new formula includes light-diffusing technologies specifically designed to brighten dull, darkening skin tone.

Available in 8 shades specifically created for Asian skin and appropriate for all skin types. Use after Brightening City Block SPF 40/PA+++ or at the end of your Derma White treatment regimen.

Derma White Makeup Compact Case SRP: P800

Erratum: In last week?s UltraLipo article, I wrote that Dr. Marianne Chua Simeon was a Philippine Dermatological Society Diplomate. Her associate is, she is not.