Introduction: A candid pledge for 2026
I don’t make new year resolutions, but by coincidence I have recently made a number of pledges to adopt better beauty habits. I’m a beauty journalist who already moisturises and UV protects religiously, yet there’s always room for improvement. Sali Hughes’s reflections offer a practical blueprint for anyone looking to simplify routines, reduce waste, and prioritise skin health in the year ahead.
1) Prioritise daily sunscreen habit
Even with a robust skincare routine, sun exposure remains the number one factor behind premature aging and sun damage. The pledge is simple: integrate sunscreen into the morning ritual with consistency. The aim isn’t perfection, but reliability—for example, applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, reapplying when outdoors, and choosing formulas that feel comfortable under makeup. This commitment aligns with a broader movement in beauty culture that recognises sun protection as essential skincare, not optional protection.
2) Rethink cleansing for balance, not deprivation
Many of us juggle long days and late nights, which can tempt extreme routines that strip skin or irritate it. The pledge: adopt a gentler cleanse that respects the skin’s barrier. Look for mild surfactants, hydrating ingredients, and tools that aid cleansing without provoking redness. It’s not about minimalist, avant-garde trends; it’s about balancing effectiveness with comfort. The payoff is clearer skin without compromise, especially when paired with a nourishing moisturizer.
3) Invest in barrier-supporting skincare
Skin health starts with the barrier. Sali Hughes’s pledges include incorporating products that support the skin’s natural defenses—ceramides, niacinamide, fatty acids, and comforting humectants. The goal is a routine that strengthens resilience against environmental stressors while remaining affordable and easy to maintain. This approach acknowledges that good skin isn’t about chasing every new ingredient but about consistent, science-backed choices that suit individual skin types.
4) Less clutter, more clarity: streamline routines
The year ahead should feature a more thoughtful lineup of products. The pledge is to curate a small set of trusted items that truly work, with regular evaluations to avoid accumulating unused bottles. By simplifying the routine, it becomes easier to notice what truly helps the skin, reduces decision fatigue, and makes skincare feel enjoyable rather than a chore.
5) Mindful makeup that respects skin
Makeup can be a joy, but it should not compromise skin health. The pledge here is to choose formulas that offer skin-balanced benefits—light-diffusing finishes, non-comedogenic options, and careful removal routines. It’s about making makeup part of a healthy skincare cycle, not a barrier to it. The goal is a complexion that looks radiant without relying on heavy layers that can irritate or clog pores.
6) Sun-smart beauty beyond the beach
Protecting skin goes beyond holidays. The pledge expands to daily protection in all weather, including cloudy days when UV exposure persists. This includes clothing with built-in sun protection for extended outdoor activities and strategic product layering that doesn’t feel heavy. The overarching aim is sustainable, long-term skin health rather than quick, flashy results.
7) Sustainability as a routine, not a trend
In 2026, the pledge includes smarter consumption—refillable packaging, responsible disposal, and supporting brands with transparent ingredient lists. It’s about aligning beauty routines with ecological values while still enjoying effective, enjoyable products. The shift isn’t about sacrificing quality; it’s about making choices that benefit both skin and the planet.
Conclusion: Personal growth through practical steps
These pledges reflect a balanced approach to beauty: practical, science-backed, and adaptable to a busy life. They acknowledge that even professionals in the field can evolve their routines without sacrificing enjoyment or confidence. By choosing consistent sun protection, gentle cleansing, barrier-supporting formulas, a streamlined routine, mindful makeup, daily sun-smart practices, and sustainable choices, 2026 becomes a year of healthier skin and smarter beauty habits. If you’re inspired, start with one pledge at a time and build a routine that feels like a reliable ally rather than a burden.
