We are riding high on the political success of our new President, Barak Obama. His entire campaign was based on the premise of “change” and the slogan, “Yes we can!” Even though we have
witnessed one of the most phenomenal moments in US history, some of us haven’t stepped out of our comfort zones and applied this premise in our own lives. It’s still “business as usual” for a vast majority of us and nothing has changed.

Now, how can you apply this premise of change to your beauty regimen? First of all, do you have a beauty regimen? I come across so many women who don’t even use moisturizer and their beauty regimen consists of Vaseline and Chap Stick. We’ve got to do better than this!!! (And these are professional women!!!)

I am on a new campaign this year that’s based on Obama’s change premise. I am challenging all women to commit to doing something different for themselves. If you don’t currently have a beauty regimen, start one!

Now, many of us already have a pretty intense regimen that we stick to religiously. There are still some changes you can adopt as well. How about committing to a day at the spa with your girlfriends or having a spa party at your home with your girlfriends? Massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures are relaxing and rejuvenating and adding your friends brings an exciting element to these services!

Change is a commitment to do something different and new. Get your eyebrows arched, try a new lip color, change your hair color (be careful with this one), or get a snazzy hair cut. Just try something new and watch the responses you’ll receive.

Here’s a basic beauty regimen you can start today :

1. Cleanse (Daily) - The key here is to find a cleanser that responds well to your skin type. There are Normal, Dry, Oily, Normal-to-Dry, and Normal-to-Oily skin types. Once you figure out your skin type, find a cleanser that addresses that need.

2. Exfoliate (Weekly) - Here’s a step that will make a dramatic difference in the appearance of your skin immediately. Exfoliates help to “polish” the skin and usually have a granulated consistency in order to slough off dry, dead skin cells. These dead cells can build up over time and make your complexion dull and clog pores.

3. Tone (Daily) - Toners are designed to remove any traces of oil, dirt, and debris that cleansers leave behind. All skin types can use toners because they also aid in tightening pores. Women with oily skin should take the time to complete this step. It definitely makes a difference.

4. Moisturize (Daily) - Everyone, no matter what skin type, should moisturize daily.  Most moisturizers contain sun protection to provide skin a barrier to the elements. Remember to invest in a moisturizer that addresses the needs of your particular skin type.

Remember, change brought us our first African American President. Just imagine what a little
change can do for you! Commit to it today!!!

by, Nickey Martin