By: Lauren Francis-Jackson

We cannot believe that 2023 is almost here! One year is coming to a close and another year is on the horizon. One thing that people are thinking about now is resoultions. Let’s talk about the word “resolutions”. “Next year I’m gonna…” is a common phrase heard everywhere. Resolutions typically are associated with promises for change, yet they seem to be short lived. Personally, we like “goals” or “intentions”. We put more energy into goals and intentions- there is a sense of moving purposefully with goals or intentions. So here are 7 beauty goals you can work towards for 2023.

1. Being Consistent with our Hair Regimen at home

Setting hair goals at the start of a new year is a great time to re-focus on your hair routines. Be more consistent with how often you are washing your natural hair or locs. Restock on proper shampoo and conditioner (no conditioner for the loc’d newbies). Use proper moisturizers and styling products for your hair. Looking for recommendations on products? We are here to help with product recommendations.

2. Putting yourself first with self-care routines

Self care is always necessary! Self care is how you can take care of your physical and emotional health needs to the best of your ability. Self care can help manage your stress levels, decrease anxiety, increase relaxation and calmness, and help you cope with the rigors of everyday life. Self care will mean different things to different people- it is relative to what feels right for you. In 2023, we will have more ways for people to self-indulge including facials and nails. Pampering yourself can be one of the most relaxing ways to do self care.

3. Going Green with your Beauty Products

The new year is a great time to go through your beauty products and cosmetics and clean out your cabinets. Why not move forward with more eco friendly beauty products?? It is great to go green with beauty- better for planet earth, healthier for you and your skin, and less toxic chemicals. Aveda is one of the leading companies of eco beauty products. Some of our other favorites are Bare Minerals, Tarte Cosmetics, The Humble Co., The Body Shop, INIKA, and more! Tip: When reading the ingredients of your makeup, look out for these toxic ingredients- Imidazolidinyl Urea, Parabens, Phthalates, Triethanolamine, Polyethylene glycols, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate.

4. Hydrating like a Pro

Hydration is key! Your hair and skin need moisture. Hydrate your hair from the inside out by drinking water. Hydration (steam) treatments are great for boosting moisture in your hair, especially in the winter time. Steam treatments can increase the moisture in your hair, more than 5X. This can be beneficial for Loc Stars & Naturalistas alike. Your skin also needs more moisture in the winter. Treat your skin to more moisture with a paraffin wax treatment, using body butters, or getting a basic facial.

5. Bye bye Inflammation

Inflammation is a way our bodies communicate that something is irritating the system. There are many causes of inflammation and if inflammation is accompanied by pain- it is always recommended to consult a doctor. A new year is a good time to schedule your yearly physical to get an overall checkup and blood work. To manage minor inflammation at home, the key might be in the foods that you eat. Anti inflammatory foods include leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach, fatty fish like salmon, and fruits like strawberries and oranges. Stay away from sugars, dairy, alcohol, red meats, and processed foods.

6. Meditate Regularly

Meditation is an easy way to work on wellness by reducing anxiety, increasing mindfulness, and relieving stress. There are many apps now available for meditation in the digital space. Part of a regular ritual in cosmetology school was to participate in 5 minute meditation at the start of the day. Some of the apps we like are Calm, Headspace, and Mindfulness app on AppleWatch.

7. Just Being Still

One thing that this pandemic taught us is that you must make time to slow down and be still. Obviously in #ClubQuarantine we had no choice but to be still. The world literally stopped in 2020. So many things were shut down and totally inaccessible. As the world is back up and running now, the hustle and bustle is definitely back. The daily rush. However, we still need those quiet moments to just be still. Take a timeout and just be still- once a week would be great, but once a month works too. Be still to gain clarity, be creative, developing visions, and to just be.

Happy Holidays from Locspiration Salon!