New year, new you – the pressure to be the best version of yourself increases in January, including the need to be comfortable in your own skin. That's why we've got tips for improving how your skin looks and feels now and in the future.
Relax
Many skin problems are caused or exacerbated by stress. So identifying healthy ways to keep you fresh and relaxed is vital. Acne, psoriasis, eczema and certain types of hair loss all get worse when you're stressed. Take time to relax. Practicing yoga or meditation is a good option, but even breathing exercises can make a difference.
Diet makeover
There's a good chance dieting is on your New Year's resolution list. The good news is that, in addition to helping you shed those extra pounds, your skin will be thankful for it. Your skin is definitely feeling the effects of your food choices. Try to eat more antioxidant-rich foods, especially fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices, as they have been shown to help fight the effects of free radicals. Be careful with sugar. Many sugary drinks, candies, and desserts can raise your blood sugar levels, which in turn can lead to collagen damage, making your skin less supple and more prone to a loss of elasticity.
Give protection to protection Applying sunscreen can all too easily slip off your "to do" list, especially when it's cold outside. That can cost your skin dearly. We can't say it often enough; sunscreen should be an everyday product, regardless of the season.
The miracle of water
“Drink more water!” is easier said than done, but it's not just your body that benefits - your skin will too. It is easy to become dehydrated in the winter, unfortunately, in addition to fatigue and other health effects, dehydration also causes fine lines and wrinkles. The amount you should drink varies, depending on how much you sweat and the amount you get from other sources, such as drinks and food.
You should really remove makeup
After a long, hard day at work or a late-night party, removing your foundation, mascara, and eyeshadow can seem like a daunting task. However, it will pay off. And now that you're at it, your cleansing routine may also need a makeover. It is recommended to use a gentle cleanser in the morning and evening and – if your skin is not too sensitive – to exfoliate at least twice a week with a washcloth or brush. Removing makeup before going to bed and regular cleansing removes the top layer of dead skin cells. This helps keep your skin clean and looking clear.
Come on with that sleep
With so many exciting new projects to start in the new year, it's tempting to sleep less. However, scientific research supports the importance of 'beauty sleep'. While your skin has a remarkable ability to repair itself, poor sleep weakens that capacity. Researchers have investigated the effects of poor sleep on the skin barrier.
Bags under your eyes are another annoyance. Sleep deprivation can increase those dreaded dark circles. Concealer can help hide the problem, but there is no substitute for sleep.
Soft and supple skin If, like many, you suffer from dry skin, it's not just the type of moisturizer that needs your attention, but also the method of application. Lotions are the least moist due to their high water content, so opt for thick creams to maximize results. Applying twice a day is usually sufficient and you can help retain moisture by applying it while your skin is still damp. This technique involves patting your skin dry after getting out of the shower before applying moisturizer.
Remember, if your skin is oily, a moisturizer may not be necessary and special formulations are available for combination skins. Whatever your skin type, there are ways to keep it soft and supple.
Breathe in fresh air
After so many parties and smoky spaces, the effects of poor air quality can become all too obvious. Even if you don't smoke, secondhand smoke and pollution can also accelerate skin aging. That's why it's so important to avoid these situations as much as possible and make sure you eat plenty of foods with antioxidants that protect your skin from pollution and smoke-induced free radicals.
Stay with it!
Despite what products promise, miracles don't happen overnight. Good skin takes effort, especially as you get older, and it all starts with good habits. Establishing a morning and evening routine is critical because most skin care regimens give the best results when followed consistently. But if certain products don't work for you, don't be afraid to try something new. To give your skin an extra boost, you may want to use vitamin C and vitamin E serums to strengthen its defenses and improve elasticity.
It also pays to be patient
While it goes without saying that you want a product to have an immediate impact, it usually takes six weeks to assess its effectiveness and notice a significant difference. Before giving up too early, try to give every change in your routine a good chance and you will be pleasantly surprised.
