The 6 skincare tips you need for 2023

The new year can be a fresh start for practically anything, including your skincare regimen. We’re not talking about a complete overhaul–just a few guidelines that will help you make the most of your time and money, as well as your skin!

Tip #1: Simplify your routine
A 10-step skincare regimen is so 10 years ago. When you choose multi-tasking products, you can take care of two or more steps in one. A few examples include a daily moisturizer with sunscreen, an acid-based face wash that can be left on for a few extra minutes for a little extra skin smoothing, or a mask that provides multiple benefits such as hydration, exfoliation and an antioxidant boost. It’s not about more products, it’s about hard-working products that provide the results you’re looking for.

Tip #2: Exfoliate
If you’re not exfoliating regularly, now’s the time to start. There are several ways to keep your skin and pores free of dead skin cells, including acid-based exfoliation that promotes their natural shedding and physical exfoliation that manually whisks them away. The ideal exfoliation method for your skin can depend on its level of sensitivity as well as your personal preferences–and using a washcloth while cleansing your face counts!

Tip #3: Wear sunscreen daily
If I could only use one skincare product a day, it would definitely be sunscreen. When speaking to patients, the number-one excuse for not wearing SPF I hear is that they don’t like how it makes their skin look or feel. The solution: Find a sunscreen that works for you! Go to the mall and get samples (or take advantage of many stores’ lenient return policies). I promise that with a little trial and error you’ll find sun protection that you enjoy using–and your skin will thank you.

Tip #4: Seek scientifically-proven natural ingredients
I’m a big proponent of plant-based ingredients, both in my diet as well as my skincare. However, a product ingredient list that reads like a vegan restaurant menu doesn’t automatically translate to healthier, more radiant skin. It’s important to look for natural ingredients that have been backed by science, especially when seeking benefits such as dark-spot reduction and antioxidant protection. At the same time, I also don’t recommend strictly limiting your skin to naturally-derived ingredients. There are plenty of safe, clinically-proven synthetic ingredients that get the job done, too.

Tip #5: Respect your skin’s barrier and microbiome
Anything that comes in contact with the skin’s surface can impact its barrier function (which helps keep moisture in and irritants out) as well as its natural balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria. The secret for keeping both of these critical skin components intact is a gentle approach to skincare–and avoiding over-exfoliation as well as harsh ingredients like sulfates.

Tip #6: Think about sustainability
There’s no denying we’re in the midst of an environmental crisis–but if we all take small steps to minimize our personal footprints we can make a difference. If your current products are housed in plastic, recycle them once they’re empty. When shopping for new skincare, opt for refillable and/or glass packaging. Being aware of the impact the production of ingredients such as petroleum have on the environment, considering how the growing and harvesting of naturally-derived ingredients affect local communities, and making eco-friendly choices can all benefit the health of our planet.