While a change of season feels like the right time for a natural fresh start, many people choose the New Year to make resolutions for a healthier lifestyle. Although the old adage of “out with the old, in with the new” has its benefits, only 46% of us are still sticking to those January promises by the time summer hits.
With the odds not being in my favor to keep resolutions made in the infancy of a new year, it’s best to keep it simple, thus increasing the chance of success. Being a skin care fan, it would be impossible to let the occasion go by without doing a bit of tweaking to what I already consider quite a good routine. But, hey, there’s always room for improvement.
Here are my 5 top (and easy) resolutions that are bound to be a positive step in the right direction:
1. Try one cross-fit class and see what the buzz is all about. Not only is exercise good for the body, but as the body’s largest organ, the skin benefits from physical exertion as well. In addition to boosting circulation and optimizing delivery of nutrients, exercise can help to expedite the elimination of toxins and unclog the pores. Need more convincing? Sweat actually contains an antimicrobial peptide called dermcidin which is effective in killing certain fungi, bacteria and viruses that are found on the surface of the skin, including E.coli, staphylococcus aureus and candida albicans.
2. Book at least one facial per season. I take good care of my skin but that doesn’t mean it can’t do with a little professional assistance. Above and beyond the expert ministrations of trained estheticians, the relaxation is a bonus to help de-stress. Studies have shown a clear link between stress, which elevates levels of cortisol, and skin-related problems such as eczema, rosacea, psoriasis and even hair loss.
3. Wash makeup brushes more often. Although these tools get used daily, we are sadly negligent when it comes to keeping them clean and bacteria-free. Clogged pores and acne are only two results of dirty brushes. It’s also possible to transfer the bacteria to your products like blush and powder, making them unsafe to use no matter how clean your brushes are.
4. Drink more water. Although not everyone is convinced that drinking 8 glasses of water a day helps skin become more hydrated, we can all agree that most of us don’t drink nearly enough as we should. Staying hydrated flushes toxins out of our organs, aids in digestion and helps with normal brain function. Sadly, there are no direct links to drinking water and fewer wrinkles or smoothness of the skin. However, there are some who believe that drinking water will in fact improve elasticity of the skin and how quickly it springs back. What is undeniable, though, is that drinking water is good for us. The heathier I am, the happier I feel which definitely affects how I look.
5. Ramp up the routine for the hands. No need for an Instagram photo to show that the hands need some extra TLC, especially during these dry and cold months. There’s no reason why we can’t use a favorite body exfoliator on the hands once or twice a week. You will be amazed at the difference a few seconds can make. Follow that up with a few drops of argan oil and a rich hand cream overnight for guaranteed softer skin.
Here’s to a new year and a better you!
