Happy New Year! Here are my top resolutions when it comes to your skin, hair and nails, that you may want to consider as we usher in the New Year. I promise you these are worth it:

1. There is more than one benefit to eating right and watching your diet. More evidence shows that those who eat little or no processed foods and who consume a diet high in fruits and vegetables have better skin complexions. Stick to that healthy eating plan and watch the pounds drop off and watch your skin glow.

2. Do not let yourself be fooled by all the hype you hear. Recently the Federal Trade Commission banned some skin care apps that promised skin improvement and did not deliver. There was an acne treatment app that stated by holding up a blue or red light downloaded to your phone next to your skin that you could treat your acne. This proved to be unfounded and the app was pulled. However, MANY people purchased this app blindly believing it would work. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and/or ask a professional. Or post your question at http://www.facebook.com/asksurfacedeep and I will give you a straight answer!

3. Give shampoo a break! During the colder months especially, it is a good idea to skip shampoo once in a while. You can still take a shower, get your hair wet and even you some conditioner and style normally. Most shampoos contain ingredients that zap your hair of built in oils and nutrients that keep hair shiny. Allow some time in between shampooing for the oils to nourish your hair. Some of you who have very oily scalp or dandruff may wish to actually shampoo more frequently.

4. Now is the time to give up biting your cuticles and nails. Not only does it leave your finger tips looking ragged, this time of year there are lots of germs around that you can pick up on your hands that will transfer right to your mouth when you bite your nails. It can literally make you sick. 

5. Give up the tanning bed today. There is nothing good about indoor tanning. Nothing! If you think it provides you vitamin D (which is what the tanning bed lobbyists want you to think), you can get much more of it taking supplements without the danger. If you wish to look tan, get a spray-on tan instead!

6. Get a skin check up. The New Year is a great time to have you dermatologist check your moles, and overall skin health. Make an appointment for a full body skin exam. Most health insurance covers this practice once a year.

Have a wonderful, peaceful New Year and take CARE OF YOURSELF!

Blogging off,
Dr. Zalka