Another year, another endless list of New Year resolutions. Each January, we promise ourselves that we’ll stop smoking, start exercising and eat healthily, but do we really think of our skin in the same way? It too has gone through the endless parties and stayed up late while enduring extreme temperature changes (not to mention too much rich food and alcohol), so I think it’s about time we give our skin some long overdue attention!

Lancôme’s philosophy for the months ahead is one of cleansing, toning, purifying and moisturising–and I couldn’t agree more. According to their research, this is the time of year during which our skin is more likely to be dry and dehydrated. As such, it should be treated with traditional emollient cleansers and toners, which will gently cleanse the skin while leaving it hydrated and revitalised. Try Lancôme’s cleansing milk and toner comber, Galatée Confort and Tonique Confort.

As always, Biotherm are at the forefront of technology and have developed a vast range of products which focuses on detoxifying and protecting the skin, and which has been aptly named Hydra Detox Bio-Defensis. The range contains active ingredients, such as Detoxylase and Sericoside, that work together to rid the skin of impurities, boost the circulation and neutralise the skin toxins that are generated by external environmental factors like pollution, smoke and UV rays. I would definitely suggest their Moisturising Fluid as the product to try.

Elemis have recently released a limited edition Renew skincare collection that will only be available from Elemis spas and selected stores until the 11th of February. Designed to renew and freshen dull skin, this exclusive range is packed with natural ingredients, such as white truffle and Moringa oil, and uses advanced patented technology to repair and protect the skin. Our favourite product has got to be their Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask, which leaves your skin feeling instantly firmer and gloriously radiant.

Dior have devoted a significant amount of resources to epidermal stem cell research, and have developed the technology which has been included in their latest Capture R60/80 XP Nuit (above). The miracle night-time regeneration Stemsome complex works to connect the active ingredients in the concentrate with cells in both surface and deep layers of the skin, where stem cells are naturally present. This results in fantastically smooth, regenerated and recovered skin and visibly reduces wrinkles too. The future definitely looks good!

Givenchy have also created their latest skin-specific range that works very hard to refine, detoxify and beautify the complexion. Active Pure Detox Mask is my product of choice, as its triple action formula not only minimises pores but also cleanses deeply while boosting the skin’s softness and moisture levels.

Not ones to forget the body, Clinique have harnessed the technology that made their Turnaround Cream so effective in treating the face to bring us the new Turnaround Body Smoothing Cream. This miracle cream has been formulated with high performance moisturisers that work with the exfoliating ingredient to reveal a smoother and radiant skin. And with spring just around the corner, it’s just what we need to look forward to after all these months of winter neglect.

Image courtesy of Dior.