So you're dosed-up on Lemsip, popping Strepsils like sweets and have a travel packet of tissues in every handbag. When you've got a cold, the obvious thing to focus on is unblocking your nose and soothing that sore throat (and quite rightly so), but adding a few select products to your makeup stash might be just the thing you need to help you feel human again.
While skincare products and potions might not be able to improve your symptoms, they can help ease your side effects. Sore, red noses from over-blowing don't take kindly to scrubs and acid-based cleansers, and dry, dehydrated mouths should be kept as far as possible from glosses and lipsticks. When you've got a cold, the key is to use gentle products with calming ingredients. Read on to find some easy everyday swaps that will have you feeling better in no time…
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The lip treatment that will instantly heal dry lips
A cult product that deserves its reputation, By Terry's Baume de Rose is a must-have when chapped, parched lips are keeping you from concentrating - apply at the first signs of dehydration to warn off future flaking. If you're already there, the plumping effects are still instant, but make sure you apply religiously before bed to boost hydration while you sleep.
The multi-use balm for irritated noses
A sore, red nose is inevitable no matter how soft the Kleenex - and is one of the telltale signs to others that you're feeling rough. Solve the problem at the source with Magic Organic Apothecary's Green Balm, which soothes without stinging. Rub into the skin last thing at night and wake up to a calmer-looking noggin - plus, the coconut oil-based formula acts as a barrier between your nose and the tissue, so no irritation if you blow your nose during the night.
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The no-stinging cleanser
Doing exactly what it says on the tin, Dermalogica's Ultra Calming Cleanser is perfect for mid-cold complexion rawness, with a soft soothing texture that glides over the skin without irritating it any further. Use with a warm, soft flannel, rather than a slightly rougher muslin cloth, for further ease.
The simple skin touch-up
While a full face of makeup is most likely off the cards (excess sneezing and nose blowing isn't exactly the key to a long-lasting base), a hint of coverage will liven up the skin a little, making you feel fresher. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue gives a light to medium coverage and a juicy, hydrated feel to the skin without feeling heavy - apply with finger tips for a natural finish.
The instant healthy glow-giver
A touch of blush will work wonders on a dull complexion - opt for a cream formula to give a dewy finish, and avoid showing up any dryness on the skin. Trinny Woodall's new beauty range, Trinny London, offers an easy-to-use, glowing formula in their Lip2Cheek pot, which can be tapped on to the apples of the cheeks for a healthy flush. Try the shade Chloe, a deceptively scary-looking neutral tone which sheers out on the cheek, giving colour without adding too much pink (which will only enhance any redness elsewhere).
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