10 Beauty Resolutions for the New Year

1. Resist the Urge to Pick at your Face: Picking at pimples and blackheads not only causes scars, but it can also lead to infections. If you are prone to breakouts, there are many products on the market that are specifically made for pimples and blackheads. If over-the counter products are not an option, a local dermatologist can help by prescribing you with a stronger form of acne medication if it is needed. If you prefer a natural remedy, there are many online websites that provide beauty recipes made with ingredients from Mother Nature. To prevent future breakouts, keep your hands away from your face since the dirt from your hands can easily trigger acne. Finally, check your diet. While most foods don't cause acne, they can irritate the problem and make it worse. 2. Give up Smoking: Smoking causes your skin to look dull and lifeless and can make you look years older than you really are. Smoking can also stain your teeth and nails, leaving them dull and dingy. If you decide to make an effort to cut down on smoking or quit, there are numerous websites that can help. If you need further help, nicotine gum, patches and even herbs are generally available over-the counter. For something a little more natural, you could try chewing your favorite gum or sucking on a lollipop or piece of hard candy when you have a nicotine urge. If all else fails, your family doctor can be helpful in finding a nicotine-free method that is right for you. 3. Make it a Habit of Removing your Makeup before Bedtime: Wearing makeup to bed can leave your face open to dirt and bacteria and cause breakouts and other skin problems. Sure it's easier to sleep in our makeup after a tiresome day, but if you begin making it a habit, removing your makeup will be as simple as brushing your teeth. Avoid using just any soap however. The same soap you use to wash your hands isn't meant for your face. It cannot only dry out your skin; it can also leave a makeup residue. Try a makeup remover or cleanser instead. If you use mascara, try an eye makeup remover meant specifically for this sensitive area. 4. Keep your Manicure in Tiptop Shape: Most people tend to notice your hands. Putting your best foot or in this case hands forward can show your boss or a potential client that you care how you look and you pay attention to details, leaving a great impression on them. To keep those top ten in perfect shape and extend the life of your manicure, apply a base coat before you begin. Take your base coat beyond the tip and underneath the nail. Finish your manicure with a top coat and apply in the same manner as the base coat. 5. Take Warm Showers Instead of Hot: Believe it or not, hot water can dry out skin, especially during the winter months. While hot water may be a relief on a chilly day, a warm shower in a heated room can give you the very same results. If dry skin is already a problem for you, try applying a body oil to damp skin before you dry off. The water will help to absorb the oil leaving your skin baby soft. 6. Rinse your Hair with Cool Water: Rinsing with cool water instead of warm after conditioning your hair gives it an added shine. If you can't stand rinsing under cool water for very long, rinse all of the conditioner from your hair with warm water and finish with cool. 7. Change your Makeup Routine: Changing your makeup colors can give you a whole new look and build up your self-esteem in the process. An easy way to try out a new makeup color is to test-drive it first. Makeup manufacturers are wonderful for providing free samples of their latest products. Look for your favorite cosmetic brand's website to see if they are giving away samples. You can also head to your local department store's makeup counter for free goodies as well as a free makeover. 8. Throw out those Old Cosmetics: Most of us keep makeup around either because we can no longer find that favorite shade of lipstick or we simply don't like to waste anything. Most cosmetics however, tend to lose their abilities after a while and are a perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria. A good rule of thumb is anything older than a year throw away with a few exceptions. Mascara should be thrown out every four months; eyeliner and eyeshadow will last up to 3 years. 9. Protect your Skin: You already know that the winter winds can be harmful to skin, but did you know that the sun can be as well? Sunscreen should be applied all year around. Most manufacturers are now adding sunscreen to just about everything we use on our skin. If you wear makeup you might try a foundation with the added benefit of sunscreen. If foundation really isn't your thing, try a moisturizer containing sunscreen. 10. Give Yourself a Break: Everyone needs to be pampered once in a while. It's a great way to relax and unwind in this stressful world. Head to your nearest spa for a day of pampering and a whole new you. If you don't have a spa in your area or would just rather unwind at home, check out your local beauty store for facial masks, massage toys and aromatic beauty products. Source: http://www.articlecircle.com/ - Free Articles Directory About the Author Ellina's beauty blog - http://www.fragrantname.com Weekly top 5 best cosmetic products at affordable prices.