So, you can't lose those extra 20 pounds in 30 days, or hit the gym
three days a week like you wish you could. But that doesn't mean
you can't face the New Year with some resolve to be a better,
healthier, even prettier you in 2006.
In fact, Yale professor Dr. David Katz says we should lighten up on strict resolutions and
approach the New Year with reasonable expectations. Doing so will not only help you
stick to your resolve, but the small changes you make can lead to bigger changes down
the road -and an ambitious desire to improve your life in many more ways.
To help get you started on those small but meaningful changes, here are 10 fast and easy
health and beauty resolutions - little things you can do to positively change the way you feel -
and the way you look - in 2006! Try one - or all ten - and I promise you'll see the difference way
before spring!
1. Never go to bed wearing make-up
No matter how tired you are, no matter how late it is, take just 2 minutes to slather on and tissue
off a facial cleanser and your skin will thank you. Not only will it help remove surface bacteria that
could encourage breakouts, most make up is drying to the skin so removing it will help reduce wrinkling
while you sleep.
2. Never leave the house without sunscreen on your face
I know . . .you've heard it all before. But I promise you that taking this two minute step will not only yield enormous health benefits (like reducing your risk of skin cancer) it's also the single most important anti aging skin care step you can take. Look for either a moisturizer or a foundation with an SPF 15.
3. Protect your lips - and look younger and sexier!
Want those juicy, sexy, full Angelina lips? You can have them without a lot of muss and fuss IF you protect your pucker with a lip gloss or balm containing sunscreen. When lips are hydrated and protected they will automatically look fuller - and you'll look younger!
4. Whiten your teeth
If you haven't done it yet, this is the one resolution you MUST try! Not only is it the quickest, most inexpensive way to take years off your appearance, it can boost your confidence and give you that polished, well groomed look.
5. Clean out your make-up bag
Toss any products you've had more than a year. Not only can this help prevent potentially serious eye or skin infections, it will force you to re-evaluate your make up needs.
6. Keep up with your hair coloring
The 2 inches of "roots" look popularized on "Sex and the City" is going, going, gone! In it's place is more natural, highlighted color . Make sure you touch up those roots every 4 weeks. If the time - or the expense - doesn't permit that kind of attention, then think about having your hair professionally highlighted.
7. Trade in your shower gel for a moisturizing bar of soap
Most gels contain chemicals, dyes, foaming agents, and lots of drying alcohol - all things your skin doesn't need. Try a daily shower with a moisturizing soap instead.
8. Wear a bronzer all year long
Most gals think of a powder bronzer as a summertime treat. But it's also the Hollywood secret that keeps many an aging starlet from looking her age - or letting on how little sleep she really gets!
9. Take a calcium/vitamin D supplement every day
While many women believe calcium is only important if you're pregnant - or post menopausal - the truth is gals of all ages need this vital mineral to maintain a strong and healthy skeleton - and protect against broken bones.
10. Wear fragrance every day
Even if you're just spending the day doing laundry or cleaning the bathroom, studies show that wearing your favorite fragrance is a great way to lift your mood and keep energy levels high. Starting your day with a dousing of fragrance will also make you feel special - and that can affect how you act and react during the entire day.
About the Author
Victoria Winston is a former runway model and now the style director of www.CountryDutchess.com - a fabulous fashion jewelry and beauty outlet!
Beauty And Health Resolutions
Every Woman Can Keep!
