I'm not really one to make an actual list of New Year's Resolutions. After all, if you are determined to make changes in your life it's pretty lame to wait until some arbitrary date on the calendar to decide about it, no?

And yet we find ourselves in a reflective frame of mind after the Christmas holiday. I'm sure it has nothing to do with the mounds of cookies and imported chocolates we gorged on while shlepping around in Charlie Brown fleecy pajamas for three days straight.

No, certainly not!

On January 2nd (ish), most of us trudge sullenly back to reality with long, vacationless months stretching before us. And so, to make ourselves feel better, we decide that now is the perfect time to work on a few bad habits due to be resolved before we venture out groundhog-style, sniffing for spring. Here are a few of my bad habits, and what I plan to do about it....

1. I resolve to wash off my mascara each night

A beautiful smoky eye effect on the morning after all aside, it really isn't a good idea. However, if you have a really late night followed by a wretchedly early start the next morning, may we suggest L'Oreal Double Extend Beauty Tubes Mascara as a stay-where-I-told-ya long wearing mascara....


2. I resolve to take better care of my nails


Cuticles and nails take a real beating in winter's freezing dryness, and those of us prone to weak nails need to take the extra time to cream and file. If you are a handsy talker (read here: wild gestures punctuating every remark), those raggedy digits will do you no favors. A neatly trimmed and discreetly painted manicure will make your first impression all the better.  We like O.P.I in Bubble Bath for a clean natural look.

Which naturally leads to...

3. I resolve to pamper my feet frequently

Nothing soothes away a stressful day like a warm foot bath, and few things are more satisfying than sloughing off those embarrassing callouses that make you cringe every time your socks snag on the way off your foot. I personally recommend Johnson's Foot Bath, followed by a thorough filing and J.R. Watkin's Shea Butter in Lemon Cream for a delicious finish.


4. I resolve to try more natural products for my hair and skincare

Not only is it a good idea for anyone with sensitive skin, it is ecofriendly and usually saves you money. We have some really good discussions going in the ChickChat forums on natural beauty  and health remedies (I personally swear by the honey mask!).

If you don't have the extra time, we love the entire Exuberance skincare

5. I resolve to never leave the house without wearing foundation

I have three kids. I need it. End of story.

Currently crushing on the organic mineral foundation from Afterglow Cosmetics

What are your beauty resolutions?

by Claire Rahn