All too often, New Year’s Resolutions are a bit of a chore. They’re all about giving up the vices you enjoy, and throwing yourself into activities you’d rather avoid. At Big Green Smile, we like to do things a little differently. So cut yourself another slice of cake, and read on for our top ten beauty resolutions you’ll actually enjoy keeping.
1: Choose natural
We think natural beauty products are altogether much nicer to use. From aromatic essential oils, to soothing oats and natural extracts, they’re packed with goodies that you and your skin will love. You’ll reap the benefits long-term too, as natural products feed your skin to strengthen and improve it over time. And by choosing natural, you avoid the synthetic ‘nasties’ that can strip your skin and leave it feeling dry and irritated. If you’re new to natural, check out this article.
2: Enjoy taking your makeup off
Before you groan and scroll past, yes we know this is one of those ‘rules’ you’re probably sick to death of hearing. Everyone knows the importance of cleansing before bedtime right? But how many of us actually enjoy the experience? If cleansing is a chore, than you might want to think about the products you’re using. Some of us prefer a milky cleanser, to wipe off with a muslin cloth. Others would rather go with the soap and water approach. Personally, we’re fans of the Konjac sponges. These little sponges are powered by 100% natural clay. You just wet them, massage them over your skin and dry off. They feel really pampering and are surprisingly effective.
If you have often forgetten to cleanse before climbing into bed, try keeping a pack of facial wipes on your bedside cabinet. Faith in Nature’s bestselling 3 in 1 Facial Wipes are ideal.
3: Stick to your values
We all have a set of values that we live our lives by. And you shouldn’t have to compromise your values to get beauty products that work. We’re pretty strict on which brands we’ll allow on the site. As well as being ethical, products have to do what they promise. So, whether you’re vegan, prefer to buy British, support organic farming, or like to buy Fairtrade, you can find what you need on our site. Just filter your search by the criteria that matters to you. Simple.
4: Try a facial oil
Many people are put off by facial oils, thinking they’re going to feel really greasy, or take an age to 
sink in. But a good facial oil can be a revelation, plumping, hydrating and softening the skin. Facial oils can even help to balance your own skin’s oil production, so they can help if you suffer from oily skin or spots. We like A’kin Pure Radiance Certified Organic Rosehip Oil. It’s a real powerhouse of vitamins and omegas, smells lovely and can help with a raft of skin complaints, from fine lines, to uneven skin tone.
5: Out with the old…
Makeup usually only lasts for six to 24 months after opening. After that you start risking eye infections and blocked pores. So have a good clear out and treat yourself to some brand new goodies. Like a Benecos Natural Lipstick, which moisturises while it colours.
6: Treat yourself to a weekly facial
Who doesn’t like a bit of pampering now and then? Most of us can’t afford a weekly trip to the salon,
but we can take time to pamper ourselves at home. So turn your phone off, and the music on, minimise distractions and focus on your skin’s needs. A weekly mask can help give you your glow back, as well as helping you to enjoy a few moments of calm. Organic Surge’s Deep Cleansing Face
Mask is really nourishing, and helps to give your skin an instant boost.
7: Try something new
We all get stuck in a rut sometimes, whether it’s making the same meals, or relying on an old faithful moisturiser. This is such an exciting time for natural skincare. Technology moves on, and you could miss out if you don’t let yourself experiment now and then. Take Skinfood. You might not have heard of them, but they’ve been making waves in New Zealand for over a decade. Skinfood are all about bioactive extracts and their Nourishing Moisturiser is packed with ingredients such as goji berry, Manuka honey and blackcurrant oil.
8: Use an SPF every day, even in winter
We’re not going to lecture you about sun damage, or try to scare you with statistics – you already 
know the dangers. What we will do is introduce you to Green People’s Natural Edelweiss Sun Lotion SPF15 with Tan Accelerator. This award-winning sun lotion protects against UVA and UVB rays, as you’d expect. It’s also packed with antioxidants, aloe vera and other goodies your skin will love. And it helps you to tan faster and keep that tan for longer. What’s not to like?
9: Feed your skin
Soups, stews, smoothies, juices, however you prefer your fruit and veggies, feast and enjoy. If you struggle to sometimes eat as healthily as you’d like, try a daily multivitamin, check out our range here.
10: Get your beauty sleep
Who wouldn’t like the chance to snuggle up for just a little bit longer? If you struggle to drop off, check out our guide to natural sleep remedies that can help you to get the best night's sleep. You could also treat yourself to a soothing soak in the bath with some Kneipp Valerian & Hops Sweet Dreams Mineral Bath Salts. The bath salts are infused with pure essential oils to help calm your senses and help you get some rest. Bliss.