Good Grooming Resolutions for 2019

There’s no escaping it, January is all about getting over the excesses of the festive season. Most of us will have over-indulged at some point - all hugely enjoyable at the time, but it does tend to mean healthy living and grooming routines takes a back seat for a while! I always look upon January as the perfect fresh start to get good grooming back on track.

Men, especially, can let grooming fall by the wayside during busy times, but it's always worth spending some time on yourself. Gents, here are your grooming resolutions for the year ahead!

Vitamin boost

Start with diet - I don’t mean obsessively counting calories, I do mean make sure you are getting enough vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that will help you fight off any winter season bugs, and help hair and skin recover from fraught festivities. Too much of a good thing - I’m thinking fats, carbs and alcohol here - takes its toll, leading to our bodies feeling sluggish, complexions looking dull and flaky, and limp, lifeless hair.

Boosting your intake of fresh fruit and veg, and cutting back on heavier foods and alcohol will help give your system a kickstart. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, to counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol. As an alternative to water and a healthier option than coffee, try matcha green tea, which is packed with antioxidants.

Skin sense

Complexions can suffer at this time of year - wintry weather outside and cranked-up heating indoors both dry skin out, and when you throw in a couple of extra glasses of red wine of an evening, it’s little wonder skin starts to complain.

Get into the habit of cleansing and moisturising daily, and build in a weekly exfoliation, which will help brighten complexions, and a face mask to treat any areas of concern. Sensitive skin sufferers should avoid fragranced products and those containing alcohol, as both can be drying and reactive. Take a look at the La Roche Posay range, which has some great products for specific skin concerns, particularly sensitive skin types.

Massage magic

One simple but effective addition to skincare routines, which will help boost circulation and improve skin tone, is to massage in a facial oil every night. It will help to relax you and prepare you for a good night’s sleep as well as giving your skin a much-needed hydration boost. MBotanicals’ Rejuvenating Facial Elixir is easily absorbed and suitable for any skin type. Anti-inflammatory, soothing and nourishing, it has a lovely calming scent too. Use a few drops in the palm of your hand then, starting from the centre of your face, work the oil firmly into your skin using an upward and outwards motion. Try not to drag skin down. The pressure will help work the oil well into skin and create a bit of lymphatic drainage to flush toxins out.

Give your daily moisturising routine a boost too as skin tends to need extra protection to battle the elements. Look out for moisturisers that include hyaluronic acid, which is a key ingredient when it comes to anti-ageing and hydration.

Eyes right

Remember when it comes to skincare that the skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your and tends to show lines and signs of tiredness. It’s worth investing in an eye cream just to treat this more sensitive area.

Hair we go

Ear and nose hair is great for protecting from pollutants, but it’s never a good look. If it’s all becoming too visible, invest in an ear and now trimmer to cut through straggly hairs.

Likewise, keep facial hair shaped and trimmed, and remember to book in with your stylist to keep on top of hair length. Book your next appointment each time you visit the salon to avoid leaving things too late.