Skincare Resolutions for the New Year
Let’s be honest, we all struggle to follow a strict skincare routine every day. So, I sat down, discussed our skincare struggles with some of my clients, and compiled a list of skincare resolutions for the new year based on my experience and customers’ questions. While instant skincare fixes can be tempting, it’s important to remember that skincare is a daily process that leads to long-term results. Here’s to a happy and healthy year filled with good habits!
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Always remove your make-up.
Just as you look forward to changing into clean, comfortable pyjamas after a long day, your skin craves the same relief from restrictive clothing and makeup. Makeup can trap pollutants and dirt against your skin, so it’s important to wash your face and apply skincare as soon as you get home. Using a cleanser without SLS can help protect your skin from oil, dirt, and other debris that can cause breakouts and damage skin cells. By cleansing your skin and applying skincare as soon as you get home, you can help improve your skin’s health and allow your skincare products to work their magic for longer.
2. Korean rule of 3 seconds.
The 3 second rule in skincare refers to the idea that, after cleansing your face, you have a 3-second window to apply your skincare products before they become less effective. This is because, after cleansing, your skin is in a slightly acidic state which helps to remove impurities and dead skin cells. During this time, the pH of your skin is slightly lower than normal, making it more receptive to skincare products.
By applying your products within 3 seconds of cleansing, you can lock in their benefits and help them absorb more effectively into your skin. It’s important to note, however, that this is just a general guideline, and you should always follow the specific instructions for each product you use.
Does it have to be three seconds?
Probably not, but if you could aim for less than a minute, that would be perfect. Skin care products can help retain the moisture left on the skin after gently tapping dry and wet skin, which better absorbs the active ingredients.
3. Exfoliate your skin to give it a helping hand.
Exfoliating your skin is a vital skincare tip that can help to improve its texture and appearance. As we age, our skin’s turnover rate slows down, leading to a build-up of dead skin cells that can make our skin look rough and dull. By exfoliating, you can remove these dead cells, revealing smoother, healthier skin underneath. There are many ways to exfoliate, such as using a physical exfoliator or a chemical exfoliator.
You can also choose to exfoliate your skin once a week or incorporate a gentle exfoliant into your daily cleansing routine. Overall, exfoliating can give your skin a much-needed boost and help to keep it looking radiant and youthful.
4. Protect your skin barrier with sun shield – SPF
It’s okay to skip using sunscreen in the winter or when you’re spending the day indoors? No! It’s important to remember that while UVB rays, which cause sunburn, are stronger in the summer, UVA rays are present all year round. In fact, UVA rays make up 95% of UV radiation and can even pass-through glass. These rays are responsible for up to 90% of premature skin aging, so it’s important to protect your skin from them year-round. Dermatologists recommend using an SPF as the last step in your skincare routine, no matter the season, to keep your skin healthy and youthful.
5. Regularly clean the items that meet your skin.
Every day, we touch our faces thousands of times, both consciously and unconsciously. This can lead to the transfer of bacteria and allergens from our fingers to our skin, which can worsen acne and irritation. It’s not just our hands that can cause problems, though. Our cell phones, pillowcases, washcloths, and makeup brushes can also contribute to breakouts and inflammation by transferring dirt and germs to our skin. To help reduce these triggers, it’s important to cleanse, wash, or disinfect these items at least once a week.
6. Sleep is your best friend.
Sleep is an essential part of any skincare routine, as it allows your body to repair and regenerate itself. When you sleep, your skin’s blood flow increases, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the surface. This helps to repair damage caused by environmental factors such as pollution and UV rays, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, sleep helps to regulate the production of cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen and cause inflammation when present in high levels. By getting enough sleep, you can help to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. It’s recommended to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal skincare benefits.
7. Don’t forget about your lips and hands.
It’s important not to neglect your lips and hands, as they are often the most overlooked parts of the body. Lips are prone to dryness and lines due to the lack of sebum glands. To keep your lips hydrated and supple, be sure to apply a thick layer of emollient lip balm before bed. Additionally, using a hand cream with SPF during the day can help prevent wrinkles and age spots, while a super moisturizing hand cream at night can keep your hands soft. It’s a good idea to keep lip balm and hand cream on your nightstand as a reminder to reapply before you go to sleep.
8. Regularly book your Professional Facial treatment in Esse&co.
Professional facials can offer several benefits for the skin. One of the main benefits is that they can help to deeply cleanse the skin, removing impurities and excess oil that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Facials can also exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion.
In addition, professional facials can help to improve the appearance of various skin concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging. This is often done using specialized products and techniques, such as chemical peels and dermaplaning.
Facials can also be relaxing and help to reduce stress, which can have a positive impact on overall skin health. Finally, a professional facial can be a great way to receive personalized skincare recommendations. Overall, regular professional facials can help to improve the overall appearance and health of the skin