When a new year rolls around, we all make promises about how we’ll take better care of ourselves. Whether it’s losing that extra ten pounds, sticking to a budget, or finding better ways to manage stress, there always seems to be some room for improvement in our lives. When you’re making your list for 2013, though, don’t forget to include a few skin care resolutions that can mean the difference between healthy, glowing skin and signs of premature aging, clogged pores, sun damage and other skin issues. Fortunately, most of these are pretty easy habits to pick up, so once you start a healthy routine, you’ll be able to stick with it.
Wear Sunscreen Daily
Whether you’re lounging by the pool in the middle of summer or you’re just running outside to walk the dog in the dead of winter, resolve to wear sunscreen every day in 2013. UV rays from the sun can damage your skin on a cellular level, causing premature wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of premature aging, as well as more serious issues like skin cancer. Incorporate a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 into your daily skin care routine to protect your skin whenever you set foot outdoors. The Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF50 is an ideal option because you can mix it in with your regular moisturizer for full spectrum protection. If you have oily or acne prone skin, opt for the Dermalogica Oil Free Matte SPF30 to provide sun protection and regulate oil production. The Dermalogica Super Sensitive Shield SPF30 is the best bet for sensitive skin.
Get Skin Cancer Screening
Even if you wear sunscreen and check your skin for changes monthly, resolve to get a skin cancer screening from your dermatologist in 2013. Your doctor can check your skin for any moles or growths that show signs of skin cancer – and he’ll likely examine spots that you might overlook , such as between your toes or behind your ears. When you’re leaving your appointment, make one for next year too so your healthy habit carries over.
Cleanse Nightly
We’ve all been there – after a long day at work or school, it’s awfully tempting to fall straight into bed without removing your makeup. But sleeping in your makeup can cause clogged pores, acne, and even free radical damage, so resolve to cleanse your skin nightly in 2013. Use an effective, gentle cleanser like the Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel to remove all impurities before you hit the sheets. To up the effectiveness of your cleansing routine, you can also incorporate a Clarisonic Mia, which uses sonic technology to thoroughly clean your pores so your serums and treatment products absorb into your skin more easily.
Exfoliate Regularly
If you want healthy, glowing skin, exfoliation is key. Using a gentle scrub helps remove dead skin cells to reveal the fresh layers below. Resolve to exfoliate regularly in 2013. If you have oily skin, you can use a gentle scrub up to three times a week. For dry or sensitive skin, exfoliate twice a week or less to avoid irritation. The Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant contains rice-based enzymes that help remove dull, dead cells and reveal the smooth, bright skin below for gentle but effective exfoliation.
Use an Eye Cream
Because the skin around the eyes is so delicate, it’s usually the first spot on your face to show visible signs of aging. Properly hydrating this sensitive skin can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles so you stay looking young and fresh. Instead of using your regular moisturizer under the eyes, though, resolve to use a specially-formulate eye cream in 2013. Bioelements’ Multi-Task Eye Cream is an ideal option since it helps reduce under eye puffiness and dark circles while moisturizing and strengthening the eye area at the same time.