Make 2018 the year for a more beautiful you with New Year’s beauty resolutions. Break bad beauty habits and commit yourself to proper maintenance. Your hair, skin and nails will thank you.

Respect Expiration Dates

Photo by @lizstetique

You probably know makeup isn’t meant to last forever, but are you diligent about following makeup expiration dates? If you’ve stretched that favorite lipstick despite knowing better, now’s the time to part. Respect expiration dates to prevent the spread of bacteria. Toss mascara after 6 months, pencil liners after 6 months, powder cosmetics after no more than 2 years, lipsticks after 2 years, pump foundations after 2 years and pot foundations after 6 months. Since they lack preservatives, organic and natural products expire by 6 months. Don’t forget to toss lotions when they change color or texture and check skincare products for dates.

Cleanse, Moisturize and Protect Daily

If you want youthful-looking skin (and who doesn’t?), do three things daily: Liberally apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 before leaving the house; remove all makeup and gently cleanse your face every night, and follow up with a nighttime moisturizer before drifting off to dreamland. The moisturizer not only slows aging effects, but it’s also key to preventing redness and flaking from the harsher ingredients in acne and anti-aging products. And if you’re going to be outside, don’t forget to reapply the sunscreen. No matter how how high your SPF is, the American Academy of Dermatology says you still need to reapply every two hours to prevent premature sun spots and wrinkles.

Pamper Yourself Professionally

Photo by @thetiafox

You not only deserve that me time at the spa, but your body needs it. Plan spa days in advance so life won’t get in the way of professional pampering from head to toe. In winter months, enjoy services that fight the effects of cold temperatures and dry indoor heat, such as moisture-rich face masks and calming hair masks for itchy scalps. In spring, spring for a laser treatment to restructure and hydrate dry skin, or if your budget is more limited, try microdermabrasion, which will slough off dead skin, reduce the appearance of sun spots and promote the growth of healthier skin. When temps heat up in summer, get feet sandal-ready with a pedicure and get skin swimsuit-ready with a full-body exfoliating scrub and hydrating wrap.