It’s almost New Year's Eve, which means this year that seemingly wouldn’t end is finally coming to a close. And while a fresh year on its own is usually grounds for a fresh start, we’re sure we’re not the only ones who are particularly eager for the clean slate offered by the beginning of 2021. During a time where our everyday routines ceased to exist, making a resolution doesn’t even need to go as far as self improvement but just getting back on track, so here’s a list of some simple steps you can make to take better care of your skin in 2021. 

Drink more water 
Water improves your entire body function, hydrating and flushing your system and considering your skin is your largest organ, its health correlates with your body’s own. 

Eat more antioxidants 
A diet filled with highly processed foods expedites the aging process by slowing down your skin’s metabolism and increasing inflammation. Opting for an antioxidant-rich diet will not just make your skin look better, but make you feel better as well. 

Cleanse your face
This is a step not to be skipped in your routine, even if you’re not wearing makeup. Cleanse both morning and night with a gentle formula to ensure it doesn’t dry out your skin. 

Take your makeup off before bed 
One of the biggest sins in skincare is not removing your makeup before bed. The buildup of makeup, dirt, and oil will clog your pores overnight resulting in breakouts, blackheads, and larger pores.

Wear sunscreen
Up to 90% of aging is caused by sun damage. That’s huge, so imagine how huge it is to remember to wear sunscreen, no matter the season. 

Moisturize your body
Hydrating your skin helps slow down the aging process, while also providing a protective barrier. Putting on lotion right after the shower will help seal in extra moisture. 

Exfoliate 
Doing so a few times a week will help remove built-up dead cells leaving you with smoother skin  and smaller pores in the short term and less lines and wrinkles in the long term. 

Visit the dermatologist 
If you’ve been putting this one off for obvious reasons in 2020, it’s a good idea to schedule a checkup in 2021 to make sure you’re keeping up with your skin’s health. 

Learn your skin type 
Not using the right products for your skin type could be doing more harm than good. Ask your dermatologist or do some research on your own.

Get rid of expired products
If there is separation, color or smell change, or the shelf life on the back of the bottle tells you that your product is expired, it’s a good idea to toss it. Also, be sure to look at expiry dates before you purchase to ensure you're not getting a product about to go bad. 

Streamline your routine 
Cut out the steps not benefiting your skin and streamline your routine to make sure you’re doing it every day. 

Get more sleep 
It’s easier than said for most of us, but try to make a valiant effort to get in a solid eight hours. Turn off electronics, create a dark environment, and practice meditation if you need some extra help. 

Remember your neck and chest 
While you’re busy taking care of your face, don’t neglect your neck and chest. Be sure to cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize and apply sunscreen here as well.