Starting a brand new year gives everyone the drive to reflect and make a change. Out with the old to make space for the new is the classic mantra that’s chanted. When people refer to a detox, it usually has something to do with food or alcohol, or even their lifestyle in general. A detox can, however, also be one for your beauty routine. These five detox decisions will help you achieve gorgeous glowing skin for the coming year.
1. Clean your makeup brushes and your bag
This is absolutely essential when it comes to keeping your skin bacteria-free. Make sure you’re deep cleaning your makeup brushes at least once a week. And while your brushes dry, wipe away the bag they were stored in. Throw away brushes that shed a lot of their bristles when in use – this means that fibres are dry, damaged, and old.
2. Read the ingredients…
Always read the label before you purchase a product and find out what ingredients are. An alarm should go off when you come across products with parabens, alcohol, or strong fragrances. These indicate harsh chemicals and need to be steered clear off. Know what ingredients work and don’t work for your skin.
3. …And now get rid of them
Do a sweep of your skincare and makeup kit, and get rid of any products that contain these harmful chemicals. Yes, it does hurt to throw away barely used cosmetics that cost a fortune, but your skin will thank you in the long run. While we’re at it, make sure you’re also trashing away expired makeup too!
4. Go natural
If you can DIY your way into healthier-looking skin, go for it! Use natural alternatives in your skincare routine instead of chemicals whenever you can – olive oil as a makeup cleanser instead of a lotion, a homemade coffee and sugar body scrub instead of a store bought product.
Remember, your skin soaks in whatever is applied on it, and most of the times, it helps when it’s au naturale.
5. Stick to one routine
Just like you never mix your drinks, you never mix your beauty products. Keep in mind that your skin takes time to show results, so don’t go jumping from one product to another. If you have a set routine in place, it needs to be your holy grail for at least a month. Applying a concoction of formulas and chemicals will only confuse and shock your skin.