Simple beauty resolutions for 2013

Are there things that you would like to change about your beauty regime? Or things that you have always wanted to try but have never gotten round to? Or, like so many of us, do you feel like you just haven’t got enough hours in the day to fully commit to a good beauty regime? 

Well, do not fear. This year, instead of making ambitious resolutions that you are never going to keep and spending money on expensive and modern beauty treatments, why not try committing to smaller changes?

There are so many small and easy beauty tips out there that can really make a big difference to your skin.  So if you are fed up with breakouts and dry skin, why not try these simple steps to making 2013 your best beauty year so far. Plus they are so easy-peasy to keep! 

Find the right foundation for you

When finding the right foundation, treat it like skincare. Think: what does your skin need – more moisture or oil-control? If you have good skin, go for a light coverage to balance your skin tone. If you have problem skin, invest in a good concealer to go over the problem areas. 

Fight that acne

Suffering from breakouts and spots? Take control of your skincare this year and invest in a good spot remover containing benzoyl peroxide that will help to treat the problem. When buying scrubs and facial washes, find ones containing salicylic peroxide acid (a natural fruit acid), which is another good, hard-working spot fighter. 

Do not forget to exfoliate

Exfoliate your body at least twice a week using a bath mitt or brush and you will be rewarded with silky, smooth skin that will make you feel wonderful. Smooth, sexy skin definitely isn’t just for summer and if you are a lover of fake tan, then exfoliating is a must. 

Look younger for longer

One of the biggest beauty rules for younger looking skin is less sun. Always use a good SPF, because less sun damage means less wrinkles and pigmentation. Invest in a foundation with SPF to ensure a youthful glow. 

Clean your face before bed

This may be obvious as we have all heard it before – climbing into bed without cleaning your face is a total no-no. However, I bet we have all been guilty of not doing this once in our lives! The fact is if you don’t clean away the day’s dirt, you’re creating the perfect environment for a breakout. 

Banish dry skin

Dry, flaky skin is not sexy. Use an oil-rich body butter every time you get out of the bath or shower, and your skin will stay dewy and smooth. Make sure you take the time to really massage it in, this way you will boost blood flow and help the product absorb better. 

Have a spa day a week

Feeling poor this January after the festivities of Christmas? No money to treat yourself to a spa treatment? Why not get pampered at home without spending a fortune. Try a 20-minute bath before bed using indulgent, relaxing bath oil and treat your feet to a DIY pedicure.

Get enough sleep

Forget expensive anti-ageing creams – sleep is one of the best beauty treatments for your skin. When you sleep, all the cells in your body repair and recover, and the growth hormones released in the night are said to be the secret to luminous skin. It’s definitely time for an early night. 

Eat a superfood a day

You don’t need to be on one of these liquid-only diets to detox your body and skin. Simply try adding one superfood to your diet a day instead. Why not grate raw, vitamin-packed beetroot into a salad, or sprinkle seeds onto your cereal in the morning. 

Wash your make-up brushes once a month

Dirty brushes mean one thing – bacteria to your skin. So it’s definitely worth making a habit to clean your brushes regularly. You can either buy a special brush cleaning solution or use a gentle shampoo. Make sure you rub the bristles between your finger tips to really get them clean. 

Katie Dzierozynski