The holidays have been great, but, in all honesty, I need a break from this break. The preparations, dinners and all the little things in between have taken its toll on me—not to mention my skin. It feels tight and looks dull. I figured all the makeup and late nights in a week can’t be good for anyone, especially our skin.

Luckily, when it comes to the skin, a little attention goes a long way. With some pampering, not only will our skin feel better, it also makes us feel rested and on the go again.

Moisturize. At the end of the day, it is very important to cleanse away all makeup from our face. Use a good eye makeup remover so not to rub the eyes. I suggest using Lancôme Bi-Facil, one of the mildest and fastest eye makeup removers out there. After this, moisturize. You may skip the toner if you have dry skin, but even the oiliest of skin needs to moisturize. Just remember to use products according to your skin type to get the best results. Also, consider your age. At 35 years old, you may already want to use anti-aging products.

Even your feet can suffer from wearing those five-inch heels too long. Bust out that petroleum jelly and spread it on your feet. Wear thick socks and go to bed. If your hands are dry, do the same and wear cotton gloves. Using petroleum jelly on your hands and feet while you sleep takes getting used to, but you will be happy you did so when you get up. You will forget the slight discomfort once you’ve experienced the result.

Exfoliate. Dead skin leaves our complexion looking dull, but this can be solved by exfoliating. There are a lot of products available in the market that you can use on your face and body. I enjoy using Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser on my face, and Crème de Corps Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish on my body, to remove dead skin. Using a wash cloth or loofah also works. Exfoliating brings out new skin, which is smooth to the touch. It also makes lotions and oils more effective.

MASSAGE. Getting a massage is relaxing, and is something we more often than not forget to treat ourselves to. Luckily, we don’t have to drive to a spa to get one. If you’re too busy, which I feel I am most of the time, just book home service at Massage By Us Makati (0920-9673529). Getting a massage is good for circulation and is also very relaxing. While you’re at it, get threading and a mani-pedi, too, if you have time.

Home Recipes. The kitchen is also a great place to get ingredients for some home remedies. Here are some I’ve tried and tested:

Body scrub: One cup of brown sugar, half a cup of olive oil and a little ground ginger. Mix all into a paste. Using a circular motion, scrub on the body, concentrating on the elbows, knees and feet. Rinse using a wash cloth, then dry. You will get supple, less dry skin. While still damp, moisturize to get the best results.

Facial moisturizer (good for sensitive skin). Mix evaporated milk and water, ratio 2:1. Leave inside refrigerator. Use cotton balls to apply on face. Leave on for about three minutes, then wash off with tepid water. This will leave you with smooth, supple skin.

Facial mask (for normal to oily skin). Use two egg whites mixed with ¼ fresh orange juice. Apply on skin and rinse out with warm water once the solution dries. It has a tightening and brightening effect on your skin.

For sensitive skin, mix oatmeal with boiling water. Let cool, then leave on face for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water. This will leave your skin with a radiant glow.

Most of the time, that extra five minutes you allot for yourself will go a long way. Try it!