Top 6 Dermatologist-Recommended Skin Care Resolutions for the New Year

Posted on: January 1st, 2023 by Kristen Chang

Any day is a great day to launch a new resolution for a fresh start. But tradition puts New Year’s and resolutions going hand-in-hand into a hopeful future. And we’re here for it!
As dermatologists, our thoughts naturally run to skin care resolutions. However, we’re about more than just a pretty face—although goals for that are valid too! Being board-certified dermatologists means we’re concerned about the big picture of your skin’s health. It all begins with you. You can help us help you—and your skin—with these following 6 suggested resolutions:

1. Wear sunscreen every day.

It might be cold or foggy outside, but UV rays don’t care. They’re damaging your skin even when the temperature drops or the sun is hidden. And it’s not just your skin’s surface that the sun can damage. Wrinkles, lines and sun spots caused by sun exposure visually age you. We can fix some of that in the office, but UV radiation can also damage your skin cells’ DNA. That can limit your cells’ ability to repair themselves and kickstart skin cancer. Apply sunscreen every morning. Make it part of your morning routine to prepare for the day, like brushing your teeth.

2. Get a yearly skin cancer check.

Skin cancer, especially melanoma, can be lethal if caught too late. All skin cancers may require some type of minimal surgery and possibly more extensive cancer treatment, depending on the stage at diagnosis. As dermatologists, we urge you to book an appointment for an annual skin check. A mole or growth that seems like no big deal to you may be recognized as precancerous to the trained eye of a dermatologist. We will also thoroughly check areas not easily visible to you, such as your back and your scalp.

3. Wash your face every night.

No matter where you are or what time of night it is, take a moment to wash your face before jumping into bed. It’s okay to skip your usual complete nighttime skin care routine for a night or two. You’ll be fine. But please don’t skip washing your face. Invisible particles of smog, soot, sweat, dissolving makeup and your skin’s own oils combine to form a potentially pore-clogging layer. You need to wipe that slate clean before you sleep. Use whatever cleanser is at hand if you’re away from home. Doing something is better than nothing to help you wake up with a happy, healthy complexion.

4. Schedule a cosmetic procedure you’ve been putting off.

Make this the year you get that little something done you’ve been wanting to do. It’s not just about vanity —it may also boost your mental and physical health. People who get cosmetic procedures may experience a positive emotional boost. While beauty may be on the surface, self-image is deeply tied to emotional wellbeing. Feeling good about how you look can give you confidence and improve your self-esteem. This can also benefit your physical health. You may find that you are motivated to exercise more and eat healthier after a cosmetic procedure.

5. Take a daily multivitamin.

Think of a multivitamin as a tiny bit of health insurance for your skin. We could tell you why this or that vitamin provides skin benefits, but let’s keep it simple. Cover your bases with a good multi. This way, you’ll get your daily minimum of skin-healthy vitamins in a balanced formula. Think of it as a full symphony orchestra of nutrients for your skin instead of a solo performer. A healthy diet is important for your overall health, as well as your skin, so get back on track as soon as you can. But when you can’t, you can rely on a multi. Be sure it includes key minerals as well, and you’re good to go. One more thing—take it with a meal to maximize absorption. Even when you are home and eating well, a multi can do no harm and may do some good.

6. Exercise.

What resolution list doesn’t include exercise? But we’re adding a dermatologist’s spin. Exercise can help increase blood circulation to your skin and scalp. The enhanced blood circulation and oxygenation from exercise might just help give your skin and hair that prized healthy glow.

Questions? Concerns? Check our website for additional resources and request an appointment for personalized medical advice on your skin issues. Happy New Year from California Skin Institute!