You’ve likely made plenty of promises to yourself already about what 2014 will hold, but did you include anything about amping up your beauty habits and routines? A new year is a great time for breaking bad habits, committing to healthy ones, and trying new things. Out with the old, in with the new.

Bad Habits

Probably at least once or twice, you have been guilty of this big beauty sin: Never ever go to sleep with your makeup on. No matter how sleepy you are. Get in the habit of doing your evening skin cleansing routine earlier in the evening, before you’re so tired that all you can muster is stumbling into bed… face grime and all.

Speaking of beauty sleep, they didn’t call her Sleeping Beauty without reason.  Sleep is your friend, both mentally and physically.  Your skin will never be its best without adequate sleep. At least 7 hours is recommended, but everyone’s needs are different.  Bottom line?  You know when you aren’t getting enough; adjust accordingly.

Do you find yourself unconsciously picking at your nails or cuticles?  Stop that! Now! Regular manicures can help.  And please, stop waiting until your toenails are in the worst shape possible to get a pedicure. There’s no reason to scrimp on these essential beauty services when you can get them done so reasonably and at huge savings at Health and Style Institute.

Good Habits

To keep skin glowing:

• Exfoliate your body at least once a week. Exfoliate your lips occasionally too, to keep them ready for that bright lipstick.
• Lotion up after a hot bath or shower — every single time.
• Drink water. Lots and lots of water.
• Have a day – or several a month — without a speck of makeup.

To keep locks looking lovely:

• Use a clarifying shampoo every once in a while.  In winter, it’s better to avoid products that create buildup and clarify less often.
• Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Depending on your hair type, condition, chemical treatments you use, and time of year, how often will vary.
• Do not brush your hair when it’s wet. The thin, narrowly spaced bristles in a brush can snag and break wet hair.  Instead, use a wide-toothed comb.

Try New Things

Even if you have your beauty staples whittled down to a T, branch out, and try a few new products. Do you wear the same lip shade every day?  Many who have a drawer full of shades that run the gamut of the rainbow, tend to be creatures of habit and stick to one or two.  Changing it up is such a simple way to brighten things up, especially when the weather’s so dull outside.

Or try a slight wing or different color with your eyeliner.  It’s amazing what a big difference such a small thing can make!

Your haircut, style, or color may not be doing you any favors in the youthfulness department. You can pile on all the anti-aging skin care products you want, but when it comes to looking 10 years older—or younger—than your actual age, it’s your hair that makes all the difference. Your hair is one of the first things people notice when they meet you. Your crow’s feet?  Not so much.  Even grey hair can be youthful when cut and styled the right way. Meanwhile, even if you have really pretty brown, blonde, or red color, a bad haircut will age you.

If you’re ready for a haircut, style or color change, come see us at Health and Style Institute. Not only will we help you find just the right new look for you, you’ll save money too with our New Year’s special, “Our Solutions to Your Resolutions”: Get a Free Haircut and Blowdry/Style with Color Service. Good through 01/31/14.