In quarantine, it’s all too easy to skip the skincare, rationalizing that nobody ever sees us anyway. But the perfect time to place a premium on your health—both inside and out—is now. Here are five good skin habits you should try and practice in 2021.

1. Finally have a consistent derma.

You have a go-to OB-GYN, you’ve been going to the same waxing technician for years, and your hairstylist knows your entire life story. Why not extend that same degree of familiarity to a doctor who takes care of your skin? Once you’ve found the right doctor for you, see them exclusively—and often. Your skin deserves excellent long-term care as much as the rest of your body.

2. Be disciplined about wearing sunblock.

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We’ve said it a million times—UV damage doesn’t just happen outdoors; your screens and the heat from cooking can wreak havoc on your skin health, too. Start adopting the mindset that sunscreen isn’t just for the beach. It should be the final step in your AM skincare routine, no matter the weather.

3. Set reminders for pamper days.

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Remember the last time you got a massage? You must have said to yourself, ‘Wow, why did I wait this long to do this again?’ It should be the same for your skin pamper days. To make sure you don’t forget, set calendar reminders for a chosen day every month. You could do the second Saturday of every month, every 16th of the month (after payday—wink!), whichever works for you. 

4. Stop! Rubbing! Your! Eyes!

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We have spoken to you at length about the damage that is done when you rub your eyes. But even we can admit that this is a very hard habit to kick. Why not make 2021 the year you’ll promise to at least be more aware of it? Eye-rubbing often happens unconsciously, so try and make a mental note when you notice yourself doing it. This alerts you to try and do it less often.

5. Give the skin on your body as much care as you do the skin on your face.

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You might already have 15 (and then some) products for your face, but only a regular lotion and soap for your body. Remember that Dr. Vicki Belo recommends that you moisturize your body, because that’s where you actually need it. Other than that, take the time to exfoliate in the shower a couple times a week (this body scrub kit is great for that), splurge on a nice nourishing lotion, and avoid damaging your skin by shaving, rubbing, or scratching. 

If five new habits is too much, start with one, then add in a new habit once you’ve gotten the hang of the first. You might only be able to add a few to your routine, but any healthy addition to your ritual should already make you proud of yourself. Keep takin’ care of you, Belo Beauty! Nobody else does it better. Except maybe us!