Happy New Year, ladies!!! I always get caught up in the hubbub that comes along with the start of a brand new year. Even though I am fully aware that I can make changes for the better at anytime, there's something magical about a new year that gives me a kick start. A few of my resolutions this year are: learn to play chess (my boyfriend is a chess superstar), take yoga classes, eat healthier and explore my city more. However, I of course have a lengthy list of beauty-related resolutions. In honor of the new year, I want to share some with you guys (I admittedly stole most of this list from the wise gals at Cosmo).
1. Repeat your greatest hits.
You've got 608 pictures of yourself tagged on Facebook. It's time to do some serious clicking and hunt for the photos in which you look the best. If you love the pics where your hair is tousled, make an effort to rock that look more often.
2. Clean your cell phone.
Ever notice that the right side of your jaw has a few more bumps than you'd expect? That could be from all the bacteria on your cell phone. If you have an iPhone or a touch screen, it's best to pick up a cleaning kit from a store like Best Buy. For other phones, you can get away with using a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol on a tissue and gently wiping down your phone.
3. Don't buy moisturizer without SPF.
Even in the winter. And while we're on this topic: If you skip the protection because you want to look like you hail from Brazil, you'll look like you're 15 years older later. P.S.: Schedule that skin cancer screening, too.
4. Try a "beauty dare" once a month.
It's liberating and can help you revive your look, surprise your man, and unleash your inner beauty diva. Once every few weeks, be bold with some red lips or an elaborate hair piece or nail decals or…you get the point.
5. Upgrade your regimen.
Maybe you've been using the same moisturizer since you were 17. That's cute and all, but now that you're 27, you probably need a new formula. Not to mention some eye cream. Set aside some time to figure out what you should be doing at your age, and then put your plan into motion.
6. Pay for your hair sins.
I'd never tell you to part with your beloved hair straightener or stop the highlights, but you gotta pay penance for the damage you do to your tresses. Get regular trims, do weekly deep-conditioning treatments, and give your hair a break from the blow dryer whenever possible.
7. Go green.
Trying to be eco-friendly with every product you use can be overwhelming. So just make it a point to switch one thing in early 2010. Then, whenever it's time to make a new purchase, browse the eco-friendly beauty loot instead of automatically buying your regular products.
8. Put a cap on your bad habits.
We all have our vices. But that doesn't make them okay, especially if you want to look your best. Smoking leads to wrinkles, heavy drinking can dehydrate your skin…don't make me lecture you.
9. Stop picking.
Your cuticles. The mascara off your eyelashes. Your zits. Whatever it is you feel the itch to pick, keep your hands off it!
10. Get your beauty sleep.
Like you need to hear this? But still, it's worth repeating since restless nights can wreak havoc on your health and appearance. Try an eye mask if you have trouble shutting the world out.