2020 has arrived and if you haven’t started working on your new year’s resolutions don’t panic! We’ve put together the key skin care steps that will make it easier to keep your annual resolutions for better skin.

Consider these steps as your complexion’s buddy system for staying fit in the year ahead. For a skin care aficionado, some of the following may seem like mere fundamentals, but you’d be surprised by how many people skip these basic (yet crucial) steps. Sound like you? Start scrolling for our words of wisdom.

1. Double cleanse

Removing makeup and actually cleaning your face are two different things, therefore deserve two separate cleansing steps. Begin by using a balm or oil cleanser to remove makeup followed by a cream or gel cleanser to eliminate excess product, dirt and grime on the skin.

2. Exfoliate

“I must exfoliate twice a week” should become your mantra for 2020. This key step makes a serious difference in maintaining a pimple free complexion. It’s important to select your exfoliant based on your skin type. For example if your skin is on the sensitive side use a gentle exfoliant like the Skin Republic 2 Step Brightening Face Mask which uses a pure brown sugar scrub to gently remove dead skin cells. If you’re needing a bit more in the exfoliating department, if you’ve been slacking on your exfoliation or have dry skin which is flaking, try the Skin Republic Charcoal Peel-Off Mask which peels away dry and dead skin cells as well as dirt and oil trapped in the pores.

3. Fruit acids

If we could offer you one tip for the future, fruit acids would be it. Fruit acids not only exfoliate and resurface the skin but ALSO brightens dark spots and evens skin tone. Perfect for reducing acne scars, dark spots and freckles for a clear and more even skin tone. Try it in our Skin Republic 2 Step Hyaluronic Acid + Collagen Face Mask.

4. Charcoal. Charcoal. Charcoal.

Charcoal is an excellent skin purifier attracting ten times it’s weight in dirt and oil from the skin’s pores. Making it the ideal skin care ingredient to start using post champagne and mince pie filled evenings. Charcoal is not metabolized or absorbed by the body but rather acts as a magnet attracting the nasties from your skin. By removing dirt and oil this helps not only prevent pimples and acne but also reduces the size of your pores (the dirt and oil clogging your pores can make them appear bigger).

5. Make #MaskMonday a weekly ritual

And stick to it. Incorporate a sheet mask at least once a week (twice for best results). Try a detoxifying sheet mask infused with activated charcoal and antioxidant-rich superfoods to fight against environmental pollutants and premature aging caused by free radicals. The Skin Republic Detox Charcoal + 10-Superfood Formula Face Mask Sheet is an antioxidant powerhouse containing acai berries, chia seeds, quinoa, spirulina and black tea to protect the skin against environmental stressors and free radicals. Active ingredients also include cacao which contains omega 6 fatty acids, essential in encouraging cell renewal and improving blood flow. This is then supported with rosehip, avocado and quinoa to nourish and revitalise leaving skin ultra-soft. The sheet mask is applied for 15 – 20 minutes after which it is removed and discarded. Excess serum can be rubbed into the face, neck and décolletage.

6. Be consistent with your skin care

Caring for your skin is a long-term commitment but it’s easy to get back on track if you fall off the wagon. It’s important to work out which products suit your skin and remember to change them up as your skin’s needs and the weather changes. In winter you might need to incorporate a richer moisturizer or face mask as your skin is drier. In summer swap it out for a lighter weight product to avoid clogging skin’s pores and use face masks which target pimples, acne and dark spots. You might find you haven’t been getting enough shut eye and your eyes are beginning to look tired, it would then be a good idea to use an under eye mask like the Skin Republic Collagen Hydrogel Under Eye Patches to reduce puffiness and dark circles.

7. Save your dollars with DIY skin care treatments

If you’re trying to curb your spending habits and save more, at-home facials are the perfect way to save your hard-earned dollars. The Skin Republic range gives you spa results without the price tag. Start with a deep clean using the Charcoal Peel-Off Face Mask followed by a hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Face Mask Sheet and an under eye patch for glowing, smooth skin. Skin Republic even has a wide range of hand and foot masks – perfect for those at-home pedi parties!