New Year's Skin Wellness Resolutions You'll Actually Stick To

New Year's resolutions can be tough to stick to, but making a few small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference. Here are some ways to improve your overall wellness.

Get to Know Your Skin

The best way to care for your skin is to familiarize yourself with it, its needs, and its challenges. Your skin health is tied to your overall health and lifestyle habits like nutrition and sleep. You can develop relationships with your dermatologist and makeup artists, who will help you get to know your skin even more. Ask them for recommendations on products that will help with acne or aging. They can also give you tips along the way. For instance, they should know that you break out when stressed and might suggest you use products that contain an anti-inflammatory to calm breakouts down and help prevent future ones. They can also help you learn about how stress affects your skin and what lifestyle changes you can make to improve your complexion and overall wellness.

It's important to ask your doctor about the products that are right for your situation––whether it's a prescription cream or over-the-counter ointment to help clear up acne. Your doctor can also recommend products or treatments that complement any medications you're taking to improve your skin's health. These may include retinol creams that can help clear up wrinkles or topical antibiotic treatment for acne. What's right for you will depend on your skin type as well as your unique concerns. 

Practice Good Sun Protection Habits

Wear SPF every day, even in winter. Sun damage is cumulative, so even if you've avoided the sun for decades, it can still affect your skin. It increases your risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging, like wrinkles and dark spots. Try an SPF of 30 or higher for the most protection. Apply sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before going outside to allow it to absorb into your skin. Reapply often if you're sweating or swimming. Don't forget your lips! Your lips are exposed to the sun and are vulnerable to cancer, just like the rest of your skin. Use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15.

Incorporate Skin Exfoliation Into Your Routine

Exfoliating your skin on a regular basis is important for several reasons. Not only does it help remove dead cells from the surface of your skin, but it can also help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. It can also clear out your pores to make way for healthier, clearer skin. When choosing an exfoliant, look for one that is gentle on the skin but still gets the job done. Mild formula is best to prevent rubbing or irritation. If you do happen to get a bit of redness on your skin after exfoliating, don't panic – it's normal! Just pat on some cooling aloe vera gel, and you're good to go.

If you're not into DIY products, there are also several professional-grade facial peels that work well for all skin types and won't leave you with irritated skin. With several types of chemical peels to choose from, feel free to schedule an appointment with us to find out which one may be best for you. 

Our skincare team in La Mirada is happy to answer any questions you have about skin care procedures. Contact us today to schedule your consultation! It's all about healthy, glowing skin this New Year.