2024 New Year Beauty Resolutions

We don’t mean to get all “new year, new me” on you, but who isn’t quite tempted by the prospect of shaking off some bad habits and instilling some good ones? We’re not talking about going to the gym five times a week, or suddenly becoming a mindfulness guru. But how about pledging to pay more attention to your beauty routine?

Not only could it help provide a few more moments of precious self care, but it’s also the one resolution you’ll actually enjoy keeping. To help you get started, here are new year’s resolutions you should probably start thinking about now.

Get serious about skincare 

We get it, when it comes to establishing a skincare routine, it’s complicated. The days of simply cleansing, toning and moisturising are long gone. Now, it’s a ten-step routine containing things like Peptides, Retinol, Vitamin C, Acids, serums and sprays. But what do they all do? And what do you really need?

If you want to get serious about your skincare, we recommend starting with our simple ABC+SPF system - otherwise known as the ‘backbone’ of your skincare routine. If you’re new to Beauty Pie, or simply need a refresher, it was created by the world-renowned consultant dermatologist, Dr Andrew Markey and involves four ingredients anyone who wants to improve their skincare must include: Vitamin A (Retinol), Vitamin B (Niacinamide), Vitamin C and of course, SPF (as well as a really great cleanser and moisturiser to bookend the perfect daily routine). 

The exact order of application, alongside your preferred product choice is largely personal, however, there are two rules. First, Retinol is only for use in the evening and for those who are not pregnant or breastfeeding; and second, SPF needs to be applied every single morning, come rain or shine. If you have more specific skincare concerts, take our skin quiz and personalise your routine further with products catered to your skin-needs.

Self-tan more

Who doesn’t love a sun-damage-free, healthy glow that rivals two weeks spent in the South of France? Not only will it remind you of brighter days, but somehow, a fresh layer of bronzed self-tanner has the power to boost your confidence, too.  

A good facial tan can benefit those who struggle with their skin as it can make your skin look temporarily clearer. The warm tones of high quality self-tan can balance the red tones of active spots or scarring, leaving behind the illusion of a more even-toned complexion. Plus, having a great base tan can alleviate the need for heavy foundations and concealers, which can clog up pores and provoke a self-fulfilling cycle. So, find the self-tan that works for your skin type and get glowing this new year. 

Treat your hair like you treat your skin

We all want to have that ‘woman in a hair advert’ hair, but many of us jump straight to the styling phase, forgetting that great hair starts in the shower (or even before). First, you’ll need a high-quality shampoo and conditioner that fits your specific hair needs (dry, thinning or bleach-damaged?), and you may even consider scalp care for your best hair yet. 

Experts suggest that a gentle scalp exfoliation is key to thicker, healthier, and shinier hair. Similar to the gentle kneading of a deep-tissue or Swedish massage, using a water-friendly tool (or simply your fingertips) in the shower is not only relaxing, but can also help stimulate hair growth and help avoid irritation and itching.

Coconut oil is a super effective, natural and easily accessible way to nourish your scalp, helping with any dandruff or dry skin. Just warm a tablespoon in between your hands and massage in. 

Alongside scalp care, moderating your shower temperature can also reduce your risk of damage, as using water that's too hot can contribute to scalp dryness. However, if you can’t live without your piping hot showers (and we get it, the winter weather practically asks for it), consider using an intensely nourishing hair mask. Preferably loaded with hydrating Hyaluronic Acid, strengthening Keratin and healthy-hair powerhouse Panthenol.

A heat-protection spray is also non-negotiable if you are in the habit of blow drying or straightening your hair post-shower.

Use body lotion every day

Every year, we liberally apply our serums and moisturisers to our faces, while simultaneously ignoring the scaly skin on our shins. 2024, however, is going to be different. It’s the year we’re all going to commit to using body lotion every day, whether or not our legs are on show.

Not only will this mean there’s a lot less damage control to do come springtime, it also contributes to a greater sense of overall self care. If you’re still not convinced that 2024 is the year of lathering on your favourite body moisturiser, we’ve got the comprehensive list to convince you:

Protecting your skin 

While applying body lotion daily will help replenish dry skin by locking in the skin’s moisture, it can also work to protect your skin. Body moisturisers work as a barrier to your skin, shielding your skin yourself from pollutants and other factors that could cause dryness or further skin irritation.

Prevent early signs of aging 

Another unforgiving factor that comes with dehydrated skin is premature aging. A well moisturised body can help keep skin firm and boost collagen production, which helps maintain the skin’s natural elasticity. Since body lotions were designed to replenish and maintain a body’s natural moisture, applying it daily can help prevent early deep-set wrinkles in the future.

Prevent razor bumps

There’s a reason why so many dermatologists recommend applying a generous amount of body lotion post-shaving. One is to prevent those annoying razor bumps and rashes.

Often, razor bumps can occur when the skin reacts to the razor blades, (which is why it’s crucial to replace the blades as regularly as possible) and when the skin itself is already very sensitive. Applying a hydrating body lotion can help soothe and heal your shaven area - bonus points if it contains Aloe Vera.

Prioritise sleep

All we’re saying is, it’s called beauty sleep for a reason. If you want to begin the new year looking and feeling well rested, energised and radiant, you’re going to have to prioritise those eight hours. Our golden rules: 

• No screens 30 minutes before bed (at least)

• Maximise exposure to natural light in the morning

• Regular exercise 

• Routine bedtimes 

• A pampering evening self-care routine

• Reducing alcohol consumption

And just like that, 2024 here we come!