It’s a New Year so it’s time to plan your New Year’s resolutions. You may have fitness challenges, savings goals and healthy eating on your list but how about looking at your skincare?
Clear out old products
Old makeup and skincare products can go off and hold bacteria. Check the ‘best before” and “period after opening’ dates on the labels and throw away anything that’s out of date. As a rough guide, anything that’s been open for more than 18 months should probably go.
Choose nature-friendly beauty brands
When replacing out of date products choose natural or organic beauty products made with plant-based ingredients that are cruelty-free. Before buying check the product labels to ensure they don’t include synthetic ingredients such as parabens, SLS and SLES.
Exfoliate
Dead skin cell build-up = dull, dry skin, so exfoliation is key to keeping your skin radiant. Exfoliation occurs naturally when the dead skin cells shed off to reveal new cells underneath. However this process slows down as we age so regular exfoliation is important to help this along. Choose an exfoliator that’s gentle and not too harsh and exfoliate at least once a week.
Use a daily SPF
When it comes to wrinkles, prevention is better than cure. Don’t wait for the summer to start using sun protection, the damaging UV rays that cause premature ageing (and skin cancer) can penetrate through the clouds all year round. Wear a moisturiser with an SPF 15 minimum every day.
Drink more water
Staying hydrated benefits your skin, keeping cells hydrated and helping to flush the body of toxins more efficiently. Aim to drink at least two litres a day. If you’re not keen on plain water, try herbal tea or fruit-infused water.
Take off make-up before bed
At night, while you are sleeping, your body gets a chance to repair the damage caused during waking hours. Natural exfoliation takes place and your body makes more collagen which minimises fine lines and also releases elastin which strengthens your skin. If you don’t cleanse off stale makeup and the dirt and grime of the day, this can inhibit natural exfoliation and lead to clogged pores, congested skin and eye irritation.
Get better sleep
It’s called ‘beauty sleep’ for a reason … night time is the time when your body is at its most active, repairing damage and renewing itself. You should try to get at least eight hours a night.