How to cheat good skin when you have a cold

Ah, the dreaded cold. A minimum of three days sniffing and sneezing, and more than likely you’ll be in work. So how do you get through the week and still look presentable? The red nose, watery eyes, and dry skin? We’ve got you covered with our top tips for looking your best when you’re not really feeling it.

Dryness and Redness

After a few days of blowing your nose it’s probably looking a little red, dry and irritated. You’re in desperate need of concealer to cover the redness but this layered on top of dry, flakey skin is never a good look. The one thing that never fails me in this situation is Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream. I slather a thick layer of this on before bed and the next morning it’s like waking up with a new nose! Now you can pat on concealer and cover that redness.

Hydration and Glowy Skin

As your skin will be feeling particularly parched now is the time to layer on the hydration. Thick, lush creams and oils are your best friend. Take your makeup off as soon as you get home, giving you optimum time to get a moisture sandwich going before bed. Don’t skimp on the skincare in the morning either, applying a little more than usual to give your skin some extra glow under makeup.

If you have a little extra redness, even after applying copious amounts of concealer, its probably best to avoid lipstick, go for something nourishing on the lips instead. Instead, try to really focus on the skin and making it look as glowy as possible, a little more highlighter is always good, go for one with a dewy not glittery finish like Glossier’s Haloscope in Quartz.

Watery Eyes

If you have particularly watery eyes now is not the time to try out a dark smokey eye, instead stick to neutral, matte shadows, just enough to add a little definition. Go heavy on the mascara (make sure it’s waterproof) to make you look more bright and awake when you’re really anything but. Eye drops are a lifesaver at brightening and neutralising redness in tired eyes, bring them with you to use at lunchtime too.

If you’ve tried all of the above and you’re still looking a bit worse for wear, perhaps it’s time to call in sick. The best way to not look like you have a cold at work? Just don’t go in!