Cover Up the Cold

It’s cold and flu season once again, and for most of us that means finding ways to hide the fact we’re feeling rough. We all know that winter is the time of year that we’re more susceptible to getting ill, but why? Contrary to what your grandma may have told you, colds and flu aren’t caused by going out without your winter coat. The three main causes are:

1. Spending more time indoors.

With windows closed, poor ventilation and other people in close proximity who may be carrying the virus.

1. A weak immune system.

We all know some people who have the worst luck when it comes to catching every bug and germ that’s circulating - thank the immune system.

1. Stress and lack of sleep.

Believe it or not, stress and lack of sleep aren’t just bad for your mental wellbeing, they take their toll on your body too and can impact your immune system.So, we know what factors can make you more likely to get a cold, but what about dealing with the symptoms once you have one? We can’t help you to get better, but we can help you to look better than you feel, and that’s half the battle.

Beauty tools to hide a cold.

Just because you feel like you’ve been hit by a bus doesn’t mean you need to look that way. Whether you’ve got an important business meeting or a big date, life doesn’t stop for a cold. Here are our top beauty tools for masking a cold:

Dry Flaky Skin

Even without a cold, winter plays havoc with our skin. While a good moisturising routine is essential, all products are not created equal. DS Emulsion by Uriage Eau Thermale was created to not only moisturise but to target the microorganisms that create flaky skin and irritation.

Chapped Nose

It’s not glamorous, but it’s a standard sign that you’re suffering from a cold. No matter how kitten-belly soft those tissues are, getting a chapped nose is a likelihood. Try to keep the area free of foundations and concealers as they’ll only cling to flakes and make your nose appear 10x worse. Instead, apply a thin layer of a heavy-duty balm like the Tree of Life Barm from Elemental Herbology. 

Cracked Lips 

Dry, cracked lips are usually caused by a combination of dehydration and your immune system being down. To combat dehydration, keep a bottle of water handy and sip at it throughout the day. For pout restoration, opt for a lip balm that nourishes your lips - this Weleda Skin Food Lip Balm Duo comes highly recommended. 

Dull Complexion  

When you’re feeling a bit ‘blah’, giving yourself an at-home facial is a fantastic way to brighten up your day, and your skin. Infused with Vitamin C and alpha hydroxy acids, the Seoulista Beauty Brightening Instant Facial evens your skin tone and soothes the skin.

Stubborn Red Patches

If your immune system is struggling, you’ll often find that your skin is more susceptible to inflammation and sensitivity. Nip it in the bud by nourishing and protecting your problem areas with a thick barrier cream. We’ve previously mentioned Dr Lipp’s Original Nipple Balm because it works so well for soothing chapped skin - it’s one that’s well worth having in your makeup kit. 

Tired Eyes 

Sunken dark circles? Puffy red bags? Your eyes give so much away about how you’re feeling inside, so they’re a key area to address if you want to hide a cold. Thisworks Light Time Open Eyes cream contains a blend of natural ingredients such as soothing aloe vera and rich argan oil, working together to revive the appearance of tired eyes. 

Puffy Face

Not only have you woken up with a horrific cold, but your face has ballooned overnight! Help is at hand if you have a cooling gel at hand, such as the Cucumber De-Tox Bouncy Hydrating Gel from Peter Thomas Roth. Store it in the refrigerator for ultimate soothing power. Although many of us would prefer to snuggle down under the covers at the first sign of a cold, that isn’t usually an option. When life has to carry on, these tips can help. Feel better soon!