Anti-Aging Skin Care Resolutions: Start the New Year With a Fresh, Youthful Glow

A brand-new year brings new goals, new routines, and, for many, a renewed commitment to their health. This can include taking better care of your skin. 

If you’re ready to step into 2026 with a brighter, smoother, more youthful complexion, now is the perfect time to refresh your skin care resolutions. At Cutis Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics, Oge Onwudiwe, MD, FAAD, can help you achieve healthy, ageless skin with expert anti-aging treatments. 

But your 2026 plants don’t stop there.

Here’s how to build your best anti-aging skin routine for the year ahead, courtesy of our team here in Alexandria, Virginia.

5 anti-aging skin care resolutions to make for 2026

These resolutions can help you start the new year with a fresh, youthful glow.

1. Commit to daily sun protection

This is the #1 anti-aging rule. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, applied every morning, protects your skin from UV damage that causes sagging, wrinkles, and age spots. 

A moisturizing sunscreen also supports your skin barrier, so don’t overlook those varieties. 

2. Exercise regularly

Exercise is the gold standard when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, but in this case, it’s about more than just getting in shape. Movement increases your circulation, delivers oxygen and nutrients to your skin, and helps remove toxins. It also reduces stress, which can accelerate aging.

3. Upgrade your makeup for 2026

This one’s a simple resolution with big impact:  Switch to non-comedogenic makeup.  These formulas are designed to keep pores clean. 

Take a step further and pair high-quality makeup with Dr. Onwudiwe-recommended skin care to keep your complexion glowing all year long. 

4. Eat healthy meals and drink enough water

Again, this is another classic resolution that has a big impact on your skin. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, protein, and vitamins supports a natural glow. 

Proper hydration (that’s 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 cups of fluid for women) keeps your skin plump and moisturized throughout the day.

5. Schedule your anti-aging consultation

Dermatologist-delivered therapies, such as facials, chemical peels, microneedling, or laser resurfacing, can dramatically improve your skin’s tone and texture and keep signs of aging at bay.

Bonus tip: turn your resolution into a SMART goal

If you turn your resolution into a SMART goal, you’re more likely to achieve it. Choose something specific and measurable, like applying SPF every morning or booking quarterly facials, so you can clearly track your progress and stay motivated all year long.

Learn more about the anti-aging therapies you need in 2026

Anti-aging therapies help reduce or reverse the visible signs of aging caused by sun exposure, lifestyle habits, and the natural decrease in collagen over time. At Cutis Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics, these therapies may include:

• Laser treatments to improve texture, tone, and pigmentation
• Microneedling to stimulate collagen and smooth fine lines
• Neuromodulators like Botox® to soften expression lines
• Skin care products, including serums and creams formulated with clinically proven ingredients

No two complexions age the same. That’s why Dr. Onwudiwe evaluates your skin type, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending a customized plan.

Your regimen may include powerhouse ingredients such as:

Retinoids

Retinoids are compounds derived from vitamin A that promote cell turnover and boost collagen production. Cellular turnover and collagen production are two processes that help minimize fine lines, even out texture, and support firm, youthful skin.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants help protect skin cells from free radical damage caused by UV light, pollution, and stress, all of which are major contributors to premature aging.

Hyaluronic acid

This moisture-binding ingredient plumps, hydrates, and smooths your skin. Adding this to your return can help reduce the appearance of lines.

Vitamin C

A brightening essential, vitamin C helps reduce wrinkling, support hydration, and give your skin a more radiant, even-toned glow.

Dr. Onwudiwe can also help you choose the right cleansers, moisturizers, and treatment products, so you avoid over-drying your skin or wasting money on products you don’t need.

Start the new year with a glow

If you’re ready to refresh your skin care routine or begin anti-aging treatments, Dr. Onwudiwe and the team at Cutis Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics are here to help.

Call at 703-795-9615 or use our online form to schedule your consultation today.