I don’t know about you guys but I feel some fresh energy going into this New Year! There was a lot to learn in 2020 along with opportunity for change. In the past, I’ve written down my quarterly goals along with my longterm goals but this year I switched it up a bit. I was inspired by Jen Atkin, one of the most influential hair stylists in the world and co-owner of OUAI, to create a “2021 Intentions” list which is split into 6 different categories: personal, health, career, recreational, home, and spirituality.

One of my intentions for this year is to hone my morning and evening routine. I’m not the most structured being but I know having consistency at the start and end of my day really helps me be more productive, focused, and centered. I have a few morning and evening rituals which both include doing my skincare regimen. This has always been a constant for me and I think of my skincare routine like brushing my teeth – can’t start my day without it and can’t go to bed without it! Consistency is key to achieving your skin goals and maintaining it throughout your life so I’m sharing 5 tips below to help you reach your dream skin in 2021!

1. SIMPLIFY

Out with the old, in with the new! It’s the perfect time to go through all your skincare products and throw out anything expired, any products you haven’t used in months, or anything that your skin hasn’t responded well to. Skincare products normally last 6-12 months in case you don’t see an expiration date on the product. Using expired skincare will lack potency and can irritate your skin. If you’re wanting to upgrade your skincare regimen but aren’t ready to throw out some of your products then you can use them on your body!

2. CHECK INGREDIENTS

We have more resources than ever now to check skincare products for toxic ingredients so we should take full advantage and think carefully about what we put in and on our bodies. Think Dirty and EWG are two good resources to check product ingredients, however, I’ve noticed that they still need to add more products to their database. I’ve searched Face Reality Skincare and PCA Skin on there and haven’t found any of their products yet. Luckily these two companies have confirmed they don’t use any toxic ingredients on their websites!

If you’re acne-prone, checking your skincare products for pore-clogging ingredients is vital to clearing your skin. This also includes your makeup, what you wash your pillowcases and towels with, shampoo, etc. It can be a bit tedious to check every ingredient, but, if you’re using a skincare product often then it’s a must! Including a list of pore-clogging ingredients below!

*Screenshot for future reference*

3. ANALYZE

What do you notice when you look in the mirror? I know for me, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed not having as much collagen, a little more dryness, fine lines, and sometimes texture. Our skin is constantly changing and the products we’ve maybe used for years isn’t always going to benefit our skin the same way they used to. After analyzing your skin and realizing what you want to focus on then you should analyze your skincare products. Does each product serve its purpose and is it helping you achieve the results you want? For example – if you’re acne-prone, are the products you’re using specifically made to treat acne or are they even safe to use on acne-prone skin? We can get in a habit of using the same products and not seeing results or even continuing to use products that are affecting our skin negatively. DON’T get used to being unhappy with your skin and know there’s most likely a solution.

4. DIET

What you put in your body is also going to affect your biggest organ which is your skin. Your skin can very much be a direct reflection of your gut health. It’s so important to consider your diet when trying to achieve your skin goals. It ALL connects. Are you getting a sufficient amount of macronutrients your body needs to feel and looks its best? Or are you fueling your body with foods that are diverse and anti-inflammatory? How about drinking more water and eating enough food on the days you decide to have a few cocktails? If you’re noticing any issues with your skin, I would definitely evaluate your diet. Certain foods like dairy, whey, soy, peanuts, etc, can trigger acne and cause inflammation. Getting the proper nutrition can dramatically improve your skin and quality of life.

5. VISIT AN ESTHETICIAN

You shouldn’t play the guessing game when it comes to your skin and please don’t take personal skincare advice from someone who isn’t a trained professional. Everyone’s skin is different. What works for one person is not always going to work for a completely different individual. It’s also not just about what skincare products you’re using but also about how you’re using them, how often and in what combination with the rest of your skincare. These details make a HUGE difference and is what a licensed skin expert is going to be able to perfect for you.

A Licensed Esthetician is also able to help you achieve the results you’re striving for much quicker by using advanced skin treatments you don’t have access to at home. Getting regular skincare treatments can truly transform and maintain the health of your skin long-term. Sooo, book an appointment with a local Esthetician to create a custom home care regimen for you while also discussing what kind of treatments you need in the future to achieve your skin goals.

Cheers to dreamy skin in 2021!