It’s that time of the year again when many of us will be making huge resolutions that we really have no hope of keeping to beyond about 10th January. It’s also when we’ve maxed our credit cards and our skin is feeling a little under the weather from all the partying and excesses of the Christmas period. This year why not pick a simple resolution that’s great for the long-term health of our skin. Here’s 6 suggestions from us:
Wear sun protection every day
It may currently be cloudy and grey, but those damaging UVA rays are around for all 365 days of the year and account for 80% of skin ageing. Look for broad spectrum sun protection, ideally with antioxidants to fight free radical damage caused by the sun and pollutants
Wash your makeup brushes regularly
We recommend washing them at least once a month to remove the build-up of makeup and any dirt and bacteria. Put a note in your diary or phone on a specific date each month to remind you.
Drink more water
Around 80% of us have dehydrated skin, which slows down our natural desquamation process leading to skin looking dull and uneven. Dehydrated skin is also prone to showing more lines and wrinkles. It doesn’t have to be plain water, so try fruit teas or add a slice of lemon. Just remember that to aid hydration the drink needs to be caffeine free.
Keep to a clean diet
Avoid processed foods as far as possible as they tend to be high in sugar and salt. Include lots of colour from healthy vegetables and fruit to boost your antioxidants.
Schedule more ‘Me’ time
Stress releases lots of chemicals into the body which are damaging to the skin and lead to premature skin ageing. Take some time out to sit and read a book, have a long soak in the bath or maybe try including yoga in your fitness regime.
Ditch the makeup wipes
They are bad for the environment, block the sewers, and they aren’t great for the skin as they do not fully cleanse. Try re-useable cotton rounds or our favourite – the jane iredale magic mitt. It may even save you a few pennies in the longer term.