January: Invest in a skin cleansing device.

Beauty and tech are coming together now more than ever. There’s artificial intelligence involved, customizable beauty routines and even apps that provide skin consultations. Through all the development, skin cleansing devices have stayed the most popular beauty-meets-tech products available for at-home use. Considering the festive season is through, and your skin is probably in the need of an intensive cleanse, this is the ideal time to try a new beauty device to do so. Whether you go with the original Clarisonic, one of Foreo’s many customised cleansing brushes, or a treatment-based cleansing device like those by Nu Skin, your skin will definitely feel fresher and healthier once you begin using one.

February: Clean out your makeup drawer

If you’re an impulsive makeup shopper/hoarder, you’ve definitely been in a spot where you suddenly can’t find your favourite lipstick, or discover a long lost one while hunting for your eyeliner. Trust us, these are warning signs, all pointing in the direction of a session with Marie Kondo. While you may not be able to reach out to the expert, you can start with simple segregation to organise your beauty collection. Gather all your makeup out of every drawer, container and pouch, and bring it all out on the floor or a table (skip the bed, as it could get messy). Then, split them all by category, take the time out to swatch them all, and keep check of what’s in usable condition and what needs to be trashed. Make this a routine every four to six months, and you won’t ever stop.

March: Go natural with your haircare.

Traditional shampoos may feel great in the shower, heaps of foam et al, but they could dry out your scalp and strands in the long run. Brands like Aveda and Just Herbs make use of plant-based extracts and botanicals to nourish your hair without stripping it of its natural oils and hydration. Switch to a natural brand, but make sure the formula is one that moisturizes as well, so you’re not left with a frizzy head of hair by the end of your wash. Considering the weather will start getting warmer this month, possibly increasing the frequency of your washes, this one’s a great call.

April: Give pastel eye makeup a go

Pastel makeup seems to be the one trend that’s slowly but surely finding its place in the beauty industry. Whether it’s a pastel pink eyeliner or a dash of green or orange around the eyes, from the runway to celebrities and beauty influencers, everyone seems to be embracing the hues. This summer, go bright without being OTT with softer versions of your favourite colours of the rainbow. Balance it out with warm nudes on your lips, and you’re set for the season.

May: It’s time for anti-pollution skincare

Pollution and environmental grime make their way to your skin regardless of how much or how little time you spend outdoors. Your tried-and-tested skincare actives don’t seem to cut it anymore, creating a whole new aisle of anti-pollution skincare products. These formulas are made to target the damage that your skin undergoes due to multiple environmental factors and global warming, especially if you live in an urban city. Look at beauty names like Innis-free, Clinique and Bondi-Chic to give this category of skincare a shot and provide your skin with the extra TLC it needs. You can even inquire at your local salon or dermatologist’s clinic in case they have anti-pollution treatments on offer—The White Door in Mumbai has a Biologique Recherche Detoxing Anti-Fatigue Facial that is made to bring your skin back to health.

June: Give your hair a new look

Whether it’s hair colour in question or a certain hairstyle, it’s easy to find one you like, get used to it and then get stuck in a rut. If you’ve been considering giving balayage a shot, getting a textured lob (like the one Kareena Kapoor Khan turned into a trend) or just want to try a fresh look with your hair, now’s the time. Head over to your hairstylist and have a chat about the best possibilities for your face shape, and pick an option you like. A new look really has the power to transform you, and this may just be the mid-year pick-me-up you need.

TO BE CONTINUED……