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By now, you’ve probably seen people post about their new year’s resolutions all over social media. “Start getting up at 5 a.m.; go for a run every day; eat vegan.” While goal-oriented resolutions like these are great, let’s be real—it can feel overwhelming being inundated with so many proclamations of big change all at once.

A study done at University College London in 2009 determined that it takes 66 days for a new behavior to become automatic. It can take even longer for that behavior to become a true habit, anywhere from three to eight months. Needless to say, this means forming a new habit requires some serious time, dedication, and energy (both mental and physical). If you are up for a bigger change like some of the ones mentioned above, that’s great! If not, no worries. Smaller changes performed over long periods of time can be just as impactful. In this post, I’ll share five attainable ways to up your skincare game in 2023.

5 Tips for More Successful Resolutions

Whether your resolutions are about skincare or something entirely different, here are a few tips for making them more effective.

Keep your resolutions simple and specific. Choose only a few small, attainable resolutions to start. A maximum of three small goals is best, or you can pick just one larger goal. Change is hard enough as is, so go easy on yourself.Make sure your resolutions are realistic. A true change is a marathon, not a spring. It takes lots of time, dedication, and effort, so think hard about your resolutions and make sure you’re not setting yourself up for failure. If you’ve already got a lot on your plate, small changes can still add up to have a big impact over time!Make a plan and set milestones. Success can be better achieved in small, bite-sized pieces. Write down the steps for achieving each goal. Planning is everything and will make it so much easier to actually stick to your resolution. If applicable, give yourself a timeline. How long are you going to give yourself to make this resolution a reality? Be sure to check in regularly to make sure you’re always moving toward a result, even (or especially) if that result is just feeling better.Set reminders. Whether it’s your phone or a low-tech Post-It note, use reminders to your advantage.Be patient and allow for setbacks. Remember the study that said it can take up to eight months to form a new habit? Well, the same study said that missing one opportunity didn’t affect habit formation. In other words, don’t worry about messing up! The goal is to strive for improvement, not perfection. There will inevitably be times when you have setbacks and lose your way. Just pick yourself back up, keep going, and focus on the end result.

5 Easy Skincare Resolutions With a Big Impact

#1 Hang Your Head Upside Down for 2 Minutes Every Night

It might sound funny, but this is something I’ve personally been doing for over a decade. As we age, the blood flow to our faces naturally decreases. This is thanks to a reduction in blood vessels, which are responsible for delivering oxygen and fresh nutrients to the skin. Hanging your head upside down is one way to push blood to the face so that it looks fresher and brighter. It’s the same concept as facial massage, but as someone with redness-prone skin and delicate capillaries, I find this exerts a little less pressure on my capillaries. 

Skin benefits aside, I actually find this a good way to quiet my mind and get into rest mode. It forces me to pause for a moment, and doing it nightly before I go to bed has been a way to signal to my body that it’s time to wind down. 

How to Make It a Habit

Add this to your existing nighttime routine, or set a reminder on your phone until it becomes second nature. 

Learn more about this effective, 2-minute trick.

#2 Use a Facial Scrub at Least Once a Week

This is something I preach about a lot, but that’s because it’s something I really believe in and have seen with my own eyes. You can make a visible difference in your skin by using a physical exfoliant like a facial scrub. The best part? It’s super easy to do and takes hardly any time at all! You’ll immediately see a brighter, smoother-looking complexion, and those effects will be compounded over time. Scrubs are also a great tool if you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation.

How to Make It a Habit

Provided you aren’t using an exfoliating acid at the exact same time, a scrub can be added to your routine morning or night—just use it after your cleanser. Start by picking one day a week, and incorporate your scrub on that day. If you like the results and your skin tolerates it well, you can bump up to two days. I’ve personally been using our new Triple Berry Smoothing Scrub twice a week since it launched, and I have to say I love the results. It’s really kept my skin looking bright during these dull, winter months. 

Learn more about the benefits of a facial scrub and how to pick the right one.

#3 Wash Your Makeup Brushes and Pillowcases More Often

This isn’t breaking news, but makeup brushes and pillowcases can harbor lots of bacteria. They touch our faces every day, which also means they’re collecting oil, sweat, and dead skin cells every day. If you struggle with breakouts or irritation, it’s especially important that you’re not reintroducing any of these back onto your face as it could lead to bumpy or dull-looking skin. 

You should aim to clean both your makeup brushes and pillowcases once a week. If you use a Beauty Blender, you may want to clean it more often since the sponge material absorbs so much. In addition to being better for your skin, makeup will apply better and your brushes will last longer. 

How to Make It a Habit

To make this part of your routine, try attaching it to another weekly habit. Maybe you do laundry every Sunday night or water your plants every Saturday morning. One benefit of washing makeup brushes during the day is that, if it’s warm enough, you can lay them out in the sun to dry for extra bacteria-busting. 

Personally, I like to use a sulfate-free, gel face cleanser to wash my makeup brushes. Some people love to use specialty cleaners, which is great, but I like this because it’s something I already have on hand. 

#4 Wash Your Face Every Single Night

If you struggle to be consistent about your skincare routine, washing your face every night is the perfect place to start. You’ll never get results from skincare by being inconsistent, but it can feel intimidating to dive right in. This is why committing to washing your face every night is a great place to start (remember, success is better achieved in bite-sized pieces). Performing an evening skincare routine—even if it’s just a few simple steps—can help prevent clogged pores and breakouts, improve hydration, and minimize signs of aging. Once this feels automatic to you, you can start to tackle the perfect morning routine. 

How to Make It a Habit

One of my favorite tips is to do your nighttime skincare routine earlier, like when you get home for the day. A lot of people wait to wash their faces right before they go to bed and end up getting too tired. Commit to making a habit of washing your face as soon as you’re in for the night (or if you work from home, set an alarm to do it every day around 5 p.m. or a time that works for you). If you commit to caring for your skin nightly, you’ll start to see a visible improvement in your skin.

Even if you don’t normally struggle with washing your face at night, you may want to consider making this one of your skincare resolutions. Doing your routine earlier in the evening can be beneficial because of your skin’s circadian rhythm.

#5 Clean Out and Organize Your Beauty Products

Ringing in a new year is all about “out with the old and in with the new,” so why not apply that to your skincare resolutions? I know I’m not the only one who collects (hoards) products, then accidentally pushes them to the back of my drawer. For me, out of sight is out of mind, which unfortunately means I don’t rediscover some of these products until much later when they’ve expired. The new year is a good time to take stock of what you have and make a mental note of what you’ve used up vs. what you didn’t end up reaching for. It’s also a good time to throw away products that are past their prime—here’s how to tell if a skincare product is expired.

How to Make It a Habit

If you’re not someone who accumulates a ton of new skincare and beauty products, it may be sufficient to do this just once or twice a year. If you’re a fellow skincare junkie who tends to collect new products on a regular basis, it’s worth cleaning your beauty cabinet out every three months. You don’t need to purge a lot every time, but this practice is helpful because it reminds you of what you already have. This means you’re more likely to use things up before they expire in the first place, plus it can help you save money. 

In order to stay on top of this, put a Post-It inside whichever cabinet or drawer you store the majority of your products in. Write down the date of when you last cleaned, and also the date three months from that day to remind you when it’s time again.

8 Simple Ways Women Can Move More While At Home

by Caitlin H,

Jan 16, 2023

You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again; physical activity is crucial to controlling your weight, gaining healthful benefits, and expanding your lifespan. 

A recent study found that physical activity was associated with a lower risk of death for women. By participating in daily activity of any intensity, a woman could lengthen her expected lifetime. Fitness guru, Dr. Gabe Mirkin tells us “You do not need to have a specific exercise program to stay fit, you just need to keep on moving for a large part of each day.” That’s good news if you’re not a big fan of what we traditionally associate with exercise.

So, what can you do to make sure you can keep your body in motion each and every day? We have 8 simple ideas for you! (Men, you can do these things, too!)

Lorrie Mills Lost 15 Pounds In Just Three Months

by Caitlin H,

Jan 9, 2023

Lorrie Mills is a giving person. During the holiday season, he sponsors families in need by fulfilling their wishlists and providing food. But in April 2022, Lorrie learned some troubling news that meant it was time to give something to himself, too.

When his doctor started making notes in his medical records about his chances of stroke or heart attack (or worse) Lorrie took him seriously. That same day he found Diet-to-Go, and three months later he’s happy to share what he’s learned.

Clever Hacks To Help You Get a Better Night’s Sleep

by Caitlin H,

Dec 19, 2022

A quality night’s rest is one of the best feelings. It makes it much easier to take on the day’s tasks, make time for exercise, think clearly, be productive and even make better nutrition choices.

Unfortunately, many of us may struggle to get quality sleep. 

If you’re one of those people, you may want to take a peek at our list of things you can try in order to up the quantity (and quality) of those zzzzs! 

20 Weight Loss-Themed Gifts They’ll Love

by Caitlin H,

Dec 12, 2022

Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be challenging, especially if you want to support their weight loss goals tactfully.

Thankfully, there are options to give them what they want (or need!) with class. Our holiday gift roundup below includes ideas for 20 thoughtful, quality weight loss-related gifts that will make them smile and help them achieve their goal!

10 Festive & Fun Light Christmas Cocktails

by Caitlin H,

Dec 5, 2022

Holiday get-togethers are often synonymous with high-calorie adult beverages like spiked eggnog, mimosas, wine and beer. While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, there are also a ton of fun, lower-calorie beverages you can whip up instead.

Keep these 10 Christmas-themed cocktail recipes on hand for any upcoming festivities and you can enjoy without going overboard. As always, be sure to drink responsibly!

Dont JUST Diet. Create a Healthy Lifestyle

by Caitlin H,

Nov 28, 2022

Anyone who’s ever struggled with weight knows how challenging it can be to find a diet that works, especially with so many options.  

Well, here’s the thing. While selecting a healthy, well-rounded diet that works for you is essential, changing your mindset to focus on changing your overall lifestyle is even more critical. By approaching your weight loss plan to improve your health and overall wellness, you’re much more likely to find success.

But how do you do that?

8 Common Ailments a Better Diet Can Help Remedy

by Caitlin H,

Nov 21, 2022

Many of us pursue healthy eating in an effort to lose weight. While that is essential, consistently eating meals that are balanced for nutrition can also help with many common ailments we face throughout our lifetimes.

Read on for a list of expert and science-backed health issues that eating right can help reduce, tame, and support, so you can live life to the fullest!

8 Ways to Benefit from Meeting with a Dietitian

by Caitlin H,

Nov 14, 2022

Losing weight is a challenge. 

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and unsure. Thankfully, there are professionals who can provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you create an individual weight loss plan that works best for you. 

Diet-to-Go believes that having a dietitian available to our clients is an essential service, which is why Rebecca Mohning, our in-house dietitian and nutritionist is on standby to help you create a plan that will work for you.

Is Your Diet Really Healthy? 10 Quick Tips to Eat Better

by Caitlin H,

Nov 7, 2022

If you’re incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, complex carbs and whole grains into your diet, you probably think you’re eating a well-rounded diet. There’s a solid chance that may be true! But, a recent study published in the American Society for Nutrition found that many of us think our diet is healthier than it really is.

Thankfully, you can take control of your diet and ensure you’re getting the proper nutrition that can support you in reaching your goals, and WE CAN HELP!

8 Keto-Friendly Halloween Dishes Party Guests Will Love

by Caitlin H,

Oct 24, 2022

Halloween is a fun time for everyone, but it can be difficult for those of us on the keto diet to resist all that candy, unhealthy food and those baked goods sitting around this time of year.

Thankfully, just because you’re low-carb living doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. We’ve come up with a few Halloween-themed snacks… it’s scary how yummy they are!

10 Different Types of Yoga to Master Your Body and Mind

by Caitlin H,

Oct 17, 2022

Controlling both your mind and body are two things that can work wonders toward improving your overall health and weight loss efforts. And yoga is a highly effective way to get that control.

Yoga combines breathing and meditation (mind) with movement (body) to boost various elements of your health, including flexibility, endurance, strength, inner peace and well-being. Yoga is practiced by millions of people and the varieties and forms of the practice is growing. You can try out for mediation, fitness, spirituality and, of course, fun!

Work your way down our list of 10 different yoga types! You’re sure to find the perfect yoga workout.

3 Strategies to Maximize Weight Loss Through Portion Control

by Caitlin H,

Oct 10, 2022

Most diets focus on restricting your eating by cutting out things like refined sugars, carbohydrates, fat content, etc. And while reducing your intake of those things can aid in weight loss*, the constant restriction can also make it more challenging to stay dedicated and consistent.

Another practical approach is to allow some of the foods you enjoy most while focusing on portion control instead. Portion control is when you focus on the amount of food you’re eating and adjust it according to your calorie and nutritional goals.

Applying some simple routine tips to your meal portion control can go a long way toward helping you reach your goals!

Former Ballroom Dancer Reverses Diabetes while Shedding 45 Pounds with Diet-to-Go

by Caitlin H,

Oct 3, 2022

For 77-year-old Florida resident Judith Nelson, weight loss came secondary to a deep desire to regain control of her health and expand her lifespan.

“Healthy living is what’s most important to me,” Judith said. “Right now longevity and not being a burden to my children is my primary goal, and that comes from being healthy.”

Find out how Judith Diet-to-Go helped Judith work towards her goals, and find out how YOU could be our next success story!

7 Delicious, Healthy Weekend Dinners for Fall

by Caitlin H,

Sep 26, 2022

Autumn is such a fun time. The cooler weather and changing leaves make for an excellent time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, the seasonal produce makes for exciting, tasty dishes that are packed with nutrition and flavor.

Do you have any fall favorites? We have a few we think you should add to your recipe book! You can whip up these delectable dishes on the weekends and enjoy your fresh, calorie- and portion-controlled meals from Diet-to-Go during the week!

5 Ways to Ensure Your Weight Loss Journey Won’t Be a Wash

by Caitlin H,

Sep 19, 2022

You know eating a healthier diet is vital to losing weight. You know that it means you’ll have to make some real changes, and you’re ready.

So you research online, you check out the article about the best new diets, you talk with your friend about the plan she’s been trying…

But here’s the thing: Losing weight isn’t about trying the latest and greatest thing. It’s finding what works for you and setting yourself up for success by ensuring your weight loss journey won’t be a wash. We’ve come up with a few ways for you to do exactly that.

Spin Class Instructor Says Nutrition is Key to Weight Loss

by Caitlin H,

Sep 12, 2022

Denise, a 47-year-old marketing executive for a major pharmaceutical company, has been exercising nearly every day for years. She teaches spin classes three days a week, lifts weights five days a week, and does yoga one day a week. Despite her incredible fitness level, Denise knew last December that her 202-pound weight meant it was time to make a change.

Even as a fitness enthusiast Denise turned to Diet-to-Go to help lose those extra pounds with its ease, portion control, and high quality food. 

Sweet & Salty Keto-Friendly Side Dish Recipes for Labor Day

by Caitlin H,

Aug 29, 2022

If you’re on the keto diet or watching your carbs, you’re good to go with the chicken, sausage, shish kabobs, or hotdogs sizzling on the grill. But what about the wide array of sweet and salty side dishes spread out across the table to go along with them? Just because you’re keto-ing it up doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get to enjoy a tasty something to go along with your main dish!

Let’s balance things out with some sweet and salty, delicious, keto-friendly recipes. You can whip these up yourself and take them to your next summer get-together.

5 Effective Resistance Exercises to Do as You Get Older

by Caitlin H,

Aug 22, 2022

You’ve probably heard how critical a well-rounded diet and consistent cardiovascular activity are to prolonging your life. And yes, those things are essential — and just as essential is incorporating resistance training into your routine. That’s because muscles naturally tend to lose strength as you get older; effects you can counter by doing things like lifting weights and using resistance bands.

We gathered 5 extremely effective resistance exercises for middle-aged folks and seniors. Do these at least a few times a week to work towards adding years to your life!

Healthy Hacks: How to Sneak More Vegetables Into Your Diet

by Caitlin H,

Aug 8, 2022

Vegetables — they’re versatile, nutrient-packed and a vital part of any well-balanced diet.

Here’s the thing. We all know how essential it is to eat them regularly. But if we’re being honest with ourselves, it’s challenging to choose the carrot sticks over the chips or the salad over the steak. So, we don’t.

That’s why we put together this list of 5 hacks to fit more vegetables into your diet. From smoothies to grilling ideas to veggie spreads and more, you’ll find getting your daily vegetable intake a cinch with these tips!

Nurse Tries Diet-to-Go and Sheds 30 Pounds

by Caitlin H,

Jul 25, 2022

Working as a nurse at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic had no shortage of challenges. Just ask 37-year-old Michelle, who started her career as a nurse in 2017 and worked in labor and delivery and the emergency room.

“I was working insane hours,” Michelle said. “I’d work overnights and never had time to eat healthy.”

But then she found Diet-to-Go!

Ready in just five minutes and loaded with nutrition, this pomegranate smoothie is sweet and creamy thanks to the coconut milk and has a hint of spice from the fresh ginger.

Why You Need this Recipe In Your Life:

Easy to make in under 5 minutes.
Tastes sweet, spicy, tropical and decadent.
Antioxidant-packed
Seasonal ingredients
Vegan-friendly and gluten-free!
Super creamy thanks to the full fat coconut milk
Easy to make substitutions based on your preferences and what you have on hand
Nourishing as snack or as part of a breakfast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Notes on Ingredients:

ginger: I prefer to use fresh grated ginger but you can also use frozen or dried

pomegranate arils: Store-bought arils will save you time but are more expensive. Buying the whole pomegranate is more cost-efficient and you get more seeds! 

frozen banana: If you don’t have a frozen banana, add half a regular banana and a few ice cubes!

pomegranate juice: If you can’t find pom juice, you can use more coconut milk instead (or add orange juice!)

coconut milk: I like to use canned! If you don’t have full fat coconut milk, try using any milk or non-dairy milk alternative and adding Greek yogurt for creaminess!

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

How to Make a Pomegranate Smoothie

Gather your ingredients.
Add pomegranate seeds, banana, and ginger to the blender.
Add coconut milk and pomegranate juice to the blender.
Blend ingredients until smooth and creamy, about 60 seconds.
Optional: top with extra pomegranate seeds as a garnish.

Expert Tips

Use a frozen banana to make it extra creamy (and cold!). If you don’t have a frozen banana, use a room temp one but add a few ice cubes too.
If you have time, freeze the pomegranate seeds ahead of time so that the smoothie is extra cold and frosty!
Grate fresh ginger for a stronger spicy kick! If you don’t have fresh on hand, use 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger as a substitute.
You can make this into a smoothie bowl if you use half the liquid (adding a little more at a time as needed).

Recipe FAQs

How do I know when a pomegranate is ready?

Look for flattened, angular sides instead of perfectly rounded spheres. Pomegranates vary in color from light to dark red. No matter what the color, the real clues to ripeness are the smoothness and firmness of its tough skin.

When are pomegranates in season?

Pomegranates are best in-season from October through February! 

What can I use in place of the pomegranate?

For those who can’t find pomegranates or don’t have access to them, you can try cranberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries or red currants! 

What are the health benefits of a pomegranate?

Pomegranates are an excellent source of fiber, Vitamins C and K, and are a good source of potassium, folate, and copper. Pomegranates are also loaded with antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce oxidative stress, and are correlated with reducing risk of chronic disease.

Recipes That Pair Well

For a well balanced breakfast, try these:

Mango Overnight Oats

Air Fryer Eggs

Veggie Egg Bites

For more smoothie inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie Smoothie

Wild Blueberry Turmeric Zinc Smoothie

Roasted Apricot Almond Smoothie

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

Print

This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious recipe! The original post was published in 2017. 

Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Pork Chops

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Short on time? Looking for a way to pack more nutrients into your day? These healthy smoothie recipes are the perfect solution!

What Goes Into Healthy Smoothie Recipes?

Smoothies are such a great way to get a nutrient-dense meal! They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. But unfortunately, not all smoothies are created equal.

It can be really easy for the sugar content to climb up to 50 grams in just one smoothie. That sugar can come from whole foods like fruits or even added sugars. As a result, a blood sugar spike is caused, which will leave most of us feeling less than our best overall. Whether it causes a crash in energy or makes you feel hungry not long after drinking it.

Healthy smoothie recipes contain protein, starchy carbohydrates, non-starchy carbohydrates (like greens), and nourishing fats. To do this, you use what I call the Foundational Five.

A Foundational Five Nourish Meal is any meal that contains all 5 elements within the Foundational Five formula. This includes non-starchy carbohydrates, starchy and sugary carbohydrates, fat, protein, and the Flavor Factor. If you’re not familiar with my Foundational Five system yet, you can download my free guide where I share more about it!

By following this simple template it keeps food flexible, fun, and nourishing. Our Foundational Five Nourish Meals can be found as smoothies or smoothie bowls, yogurts, oatmeal bowls or breakfast bowls, nourish bowls, salads, soups, stews, and many more.

All of the healthy smoothie recipes below contain these components to make sure each one is packed with the nutrients you need to feel your best!

 

The Nutrition Stripped Community’s Favorite Healthy Smoothie Recipes

These recipes are the favorites from the Nutrition Stripped community! You can make them as smoothies or bowls. If you make them as a bowl, be sure to try my Smoothie Bowl Sprinkle for a crunch topper!

Almond Butter Pink Beet Smoothie

If you’re a fan of beets, you’ll love this different way of including them in your weekly meal plan. Beets are great to incorporate into our diets for anti-inflammatory and detoxification benefits. They have also been shown to lower high blood pressure and improve both digestive health and athletic performance.

 

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

I don’t know why this classic combination of bananas and strawberries is so great, but these two flavors pair so well together.

What makes this particular smoothie extra nutritious is all of the antioxidants! It’s packed with phytonutrients like anthocyanins, tannins, flavonols, resveratrol, ellagic acid, and catechins from the strawberries alone.

Warming Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

Warming spices include anything from fresh ginger and ground cinnamon, to black pepper, cayenne, garlic, and horseradish. You can easily add these spices to any of your savory or sweet dishes such as soup, dips, stir-fry, frittata, or a smoothie like this one. The great thing about this smoothie recipe is that it’s also rich in fiber from the pumpkin! 

 

Strawberry Blueberry Kefir Smoothie for Gut Health

This smoothie contains all whole-food ingredients that support your digestive health! From kefir (which is a fermented probiotic beverage) and yogurt, to ground flax seeds, beans, and berries. You can thank these ingredients for this smoothie’s amazing fiber and antioxidant content!

Ginger Strawberry Smoothie

If you’re not a fan of super sweet smoothies, this one’s for you. The addition of ginger in this healthy smoothie recipe balances out the sweetness of the strawberries. It’s also a great way to give your regular strawberry smoothie a little change!

5-Minute Spinach Smoothie

Spinach is loaded with iron, calcium, vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. It’s a great food item to be eating daily!

I’m sharing not only one of my favorite spinach smoothie recipes, but I’m also giving you a template for mixing and matching all of the ingredients. That way you can have slight variations of this smoothie all summer long!

The Stripped Green Smoothie

The Stripped Green Smoothie is simply a high-quality, nutrient-dense, easily-digestible green smoothie. It’s simply made of organic raw vegetables, greens, and fruits. You can get very creative with using whatever greens and fruits you have in season!

 

Blueberry Banana Crunch Smoothie Bowl

This Blueberry Banana Crunch Smoothie Bowl is packed with antioxidants! You have the blueberries and crunchy homemade granola to thank for that. You don’t see it and you won’t taste it, but this healthy smoothie recipe is packed with greens, too!

 

Matcha Mango Smoothie

Green tea, especially matcha, offers a smooth, subtle energy boost. It does contain caffeine, but not as much as coffee, making it a great alternative for people who are sensitive to caffeine. Just as you can enjoy matcha in a frothy morning latte, it can also be used in your morning smoothie.

This combines the best of both worlds for a quick and nourishing breakfast to take with you out the door!

 

Creamy Ginger Smoothie 

This is my go-to smoothie in the spring when I want something filling, but also “light” on my digestion. It also helps to keep my energy levels up when I’m out and about, writing or shooting content.

The squeeze of lemon juice and added ginger are great for digestion. Plus, all those healthy fats from the avocado will keep you feeling full, keep your hormones balanced, and keep your skin glowing.

Beauty Green Smoothie

This smoothie is loaded with vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. More specifically, those I target for great skin, hair, and nail health in my daily routine. Not only are you nourishing your skin on a cellular level with this smoothie, but it’s also simple to make and tastes amazing!

Coconut Berry Smoothie

This smoothie will make you feel like you’re at a tropical resort! Coconut is the star of this recipe, giving the smoothie plenty of healthy fat, fiber, and flavor.

 

Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie

This smoothie tastes so good that it could be a dessert! The healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants make it a nourishing choice for any time of the day.

 

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

This classic combination of flavors is super satisfying and beyond simple to whip together!

Odds are, you have all of these pantry staples on hand already, so you’re free to enjoy this easy peanut butter banana smoothie whenever the mood strikes.

Triple Berry Smoothie

This is one of my favorite tasting smoothies! It’s sweet from bananas, tangy from the raspberries, and the texture is thick and smooth! Not to mention, this smoothie is very kid-friendly! Anyone opposed to adding “greens” to their drinks will love it. You can’t even taste it here!

Which Healthy Smoothie Recipe Will You Try Next?

The fun part about healthy eating is finding new foods and recipes you love that make it easy and enjoyable for you to eat nutrient-dense meals. So, which one of these healthy smoothie recipes are you going to try next? Pick one to make this week and see if you find a new favorite!

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

Whenever I see Hailey Bieber’s forever dewy complexion, my oily, acne-prone skin quakes with envy. I always wonder how the heck her face manages to look so clean, clear and radiant. But, truth be told, Hailey is just like the rest of us. Her skin gets stressed and irritated from time to time, resulting in blemishes, dry patches and a weakened skin barrier. Luckily, there are products that tackle these exact issues, and the model has let us in on her secret weapon. 

Alongside Tower 28 Beauty’s SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray and two Rhode Skin products, Mrs. Bieber swears by Avène’s Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream. The ultra-rich, nourishing formula shields skin from external aggressors, heals, hydrates and keeps the skin’s natural barrier healthy.

It also happens to have a 25 percent discount right now with the code WINTER25. Through January 19, you can get this skin-saving cream for just $21 instead of $28.

@haileybieber

What i’ve been reaching for this week as my skin has been feeling irritated and inflamed 🤍 @Tower 28 Beauty @rhode @AveneUSA 🤍🤍

♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

In the model’s TikTok, she says her complexion acts up because of stress, travel, lack of sleep, PMS and testing out a new product, which are very common causes of irritated, inflamed skin. Hailey adds that she remedies all of this by applying calming, healing formulas that keep bacteria away. Doesn’t seem like too much to ask for, right?

Avène’s moisturizer fires on all cylinders thanks to its skin-loving ingredients. First off, it contains C+ – Restore, a proprietary postbiotic ingredient that is chock-full of proteins that aid in skin restoration. A copper-zinc sulfate complex maintains a healthy skin environment—which promotes faster recovery—and the brand’s signature thermal spring water soothes skin.

After learning of this stellar trio of ingredients, it makes total sense why Hailey reaches for this cream when her skin is rebelling. Whether you’re in the middle of a stressful work situation, have been on back-to-back flights or can’t seem to get the optimal eight hours of sleep each night, there’s no need to panic when you have Avène’s Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream in your corner.

RELATED: This Growth Serum Is Restoring People’s Thinning Strands to ‘The Best They’ve Ever Been’ & It’s Included in This Sale

The formula is free of fragrance, parabens and alcohol, making it ideal for those with sensitive and stressed-out skin. It’s also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Avéne has clearly done the most to make sure your irritated complexion can get back on track as fast as possible.

Hailey isn’t the only person who relies on this moisturizer. The product flaunts an impressive 4.9-star overall rating on Avène’s site.

“My favorite moisturizer ever. I’m not recovering from any procedures, I just love this stuff,” wrote one reviewer. “Combined with the Eau Thermale, it sinks in and doesn’t leave my skin feeling oily. The chronic dry patches and itchiness I used to feel are gone. My skin is clearer than ever before—I’ve never used any moisturizer that does such a great job!”

Another one wrote, “Cicalfate Restorative cream is the best cream I have ever used. I tried so many creams and I can tell everyone this cream heals your skin, calms red skin and is hydrating. I use it every day.”

Get your hands on the Hailey Bieber-approved Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream to leave your dry, irritated skin in the past.

Date Night | Galentine’s Day (And Palentine’s Day) | Self Care Treatments | An Esthetician’s Valentine’s Skin Care Routine

With Valentine’s Day around the corner (and celebrations for Galentine’s and Palentine’s too), it’s time to turn up the indulgence. We’ve gathered the best skin care gifts that are ideal for celebrating the most heartfelt day of the year. Whether you’re going on a date night or celebrating with friends, here’s how to make the occasion special. 

Fall In Love With These Date Night Gift Ideas

Our Product Support Representatives recommend prepping for the most romantic night of the year with the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser, formulated with lactic acid to bring back that glow. A quick cleanse will refresh your skin, and the sweet scent of mangosteen will set the mood.

Next, spoil your sweetheart with the best-selling Apricot Body Oil, a gift that’s sure to heat up your date night. This aromatic oil can be used for body massage as well as all-over moisturization to deliver the skin a dose of hydration. A few drops will leave the skin feeling irresistibly soft and smooth. 

The Citrus Lip Balm is designed to give both you and your partner a perfect pout and irresistibly kissable lips. This miniature-sized lip balm also contains botanical peptides that give you plump-looking lips and diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The lips are left feeling smooth and moisturized thanks to shea butter and sunflower seed oil, which is rich in Vitamins A, D and E.

For the ultimate in luxury gift-giving, surprise your beloved with our Facial Recovery Oil, also known as “liquid gold.” Made with Biodynamic® ingredients, this hydrating oil helps to make the skin appear smoother, softer and more even.

Galentine’s and Palentine’s Day: Gift Your Friends With Good Skin 

Sometimes Valentine’s Day just doesn’t cut it and we choose to celebrate our BFFs instead. Start off by spoiling your friends with the Firm Skin Acai Cleanser, a wash that reinvigorates the complexion thanks to the antioxidant-rich Biocomplex2™. This cream cleanser also consists of acai berry juice, blueberry juice and seabuckthorn to improve the look of elasticity and youthfulness in the skin. The Bamboo Firming Fluid is another option to gift your best pals. This formula contains a Natural Retinol Alternative that smooths the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

If your friends tend to have dry skin, they may appreciate the Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer. This creamy moisturizer, enriched with coconut, grape seed oil and shea butter, leaves the skin hydrated and smooth. Its formula, which includes a Natural Retinol Alternative complex, helps to firm and plump the skin with each use. Plus, the light coconut scent transforms the skin care routine into a tropical experience.”

Finally, we recommend gifting a luminous, silky-looking complexion with the Turmeric Energizing Treatment. Formulated with turmeric, citrine gemstones and zeolite, this powder-to-mousse formula works as an exfoliant, a warming powder and a mask that awakens the skin and draws out impurities. 

One customer, Daisy D., had this to say about the Turmeric Energizing Treatment: “My treat every week! I absolutely love this treatment! It helps target all my problems while meeting my exfoliating needs … Obsessed!”

Indulge In Self Care Treatments For Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be about spoiling somebody else. Why not pamper yourself and feel beautiful in your own skin this Valentine’s Day? Start your day with the fresh scent of the luxurious Stone Crop Gel Wash. This gentle cleanser washes away impurities and minimizes the appearance of breakouts while helping to improve the look of a dry complexion. Like other succulents, stone crop is a powerhouse in skin care. This classic ingredient brightens the look of the skin, replenishes moisture and minimizes redness due to dryness. You may also enjoy the refreshing Stone Crop Hydrating Mist. When your skin feels like it’s lacking moisture, a few sprays of this mist will help your skin look dewy and hydrated. 

A day of self pampering wouldn’t be complete without a mask. Our Product Support Representatives recommend the creamy-gel Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque. This antioxidant-rich mask contains leafy greens (kale, spinach and broccoli sprouts) to improve the look of skin elasticity. Avocado oil plus stabilized Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) both help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You will also love pampering yourself with the Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream For Face & Neck. This rich cream is particularly helpful if you have dry skin and require hydrating ingredients such as shea butter and argan oil. 

For soft, radiant skin this Valentine’s Day, try the Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil. This replenishing face oil melts into the skin to provide you with a rejuvenated and softened complexion. Camellia oil is a highly moisturizing ingredient while marula oil and hemp seed oil are particularly beneficial if your skin looks dull or fatigued. 

Once you’ve taken care of your skin, you can also add some wellness activities into the mix. Consider an aromatherapy shower by placing miniature washcloths in your shower and spraying them with your favorite essential oils. Make the room steamy by letting the water run for ten minutes or so and then you can enjoy your at-home aromatherapy “spa.” 

Alternatively, you can decrease stress through meditation. Meditation lowers cortisol levels, relieving stress, improving your mood and providing you with a greater sense of calm and tranquility. 

An Esthetician’s Valentine’s Skin Care Routine

Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar has come up with her own favorite Valentine’s Day skin care routine, which highlights the indulgent Chocolate Mousse Hydration Masque and Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator.

“Though the classic combination of chocolates and strawberries is often thought of as a Valentine’s Day treat to eat, these ingredients can also work wonders for the skin when applied topically!” says Natalie. “The powerful antioxidants and vitamins found in Eminence’s Chocolate Mousse Hydration Masque target and treat [visible] signs of aging … and dullness, while the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator rehydrates and plumps the skin to reveal a natural, radiant glow.”

Step 1: Cleanse with the Coconut Milk Cleanser or Firm Skin Acai Cleanser.

Step 2: Exfoliate by mixing in the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant with either cleanser. 

Step 3: Mix the Chocolate Mousse Hydration Masque and Strawberry Rhubarb Masque together and apply. 

Step 4: After your masking step, follow up with a serum and hydrator. Natalie recommends the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator.

Bonus Step: For an extra luxurious step, follow up with Camellia Glow Solid Face Oil.

How do you plan to indulge for Valentine’s Day? Are any of these Valentine’s Day gifts on your wishlist? Tell us in the comments below or on social media.

 

If brown spots and discoloration are bothering you, now is the time to act. Throughout summer, we can be so good about applying sunscreen, wearing sun-protective clothing, and staying in the shade only to see unwanted discoloration appear on our skin anyway. It’s nearly impossible to avoid sun damage altogether, partly because it’s the heat given off by the sun (in addition to UV rays) that activates pigment cells.

If your sun spots have already appeared, and you’re looking for a way to minimize their appearance, I have good news—it’s completely possible! You just have to know which products and techniques can help. Keep scrolling to learn seven ways to get rid of sun spots after summer.

How to Get Rid of Sun Spots in 7 Steps

The goal is to get pigment cells to settle down so that sun spots will fade away and the skin can return to being bright and even-toned once again. While it can eventually lighten up over time, discoloration needs to be addressed with high-powered active ingredients and professional treatments to get it to go away quickly.

1. Choose Your Timing Wisely

Prevention is a year-round job if you’re serious about minimizing brown spots. You know the drill: sunscreen, hats, and keeping the skin cool when possible (remember, heat triggers pigmentation just as much as UV light). But when it comes to actually reversing the effects of sun damage, it pays to be strategic about your timing. I always tell people that late fall and winter are the best times of year for getting rid of sun spots. The reason for this is that your pigment cells aren’t constantly being triggered by heat, sun, or a combination of the two. Once temperatures start to drop, you can get to work visibly fading brown spots without constantly having pigment cells reactivated. Trust me, your efforts will take you much further!

2. Discontinue Micro-Needling and the Use of Sonic Cleansing Brushes

This may come as a surprise but consistent, aggressive friction from needles and bristles may keep melanin cells active. It’s best to put sonic cleansing brushes and at-home micro-needling on hold to avoid an unnecessary inflammatory response. (On that note, read my review of home care devices).

3. Avoid Overheating Your Skin

Since heat can cause melanin cells to produce more pigment, doing anything that can raise the internal temperature of the skin is not a good idea right now. Avoid outdoor exercise, hot yoga, steam rooms, and saunas. Keep a gel-based mask in the refrigerator to apply to your skin if you find it getting red and overheated. Leaving it on for 20 minutes should cool the skin and provide relief. I like the Bio Calm Repair Masque. It infuses cooling hydration deep within the skin.

4. Use Skincare Products With Pigment-Reducing Ingredients

If you’re wondering how to get rid of sun spots at home, here’s what I suggest: use three specific active ingredients in your skincare routine. First, I recommend using vitamin C. It’s a brightening ingredient and melanin disruptor that can improve skin tone. Second, I recommend using retinol. It encourages cellular turnover to bring new, evenly pigmented cells to the surface. Finally, I recommend using exfoliating acids, like glycolic, lactic, malic, and salicylic acids. They help fade pigmentation to reveal a more even-toned complexion.

The Best Morning Skincare Routine to Get Rid of Sun Spots:

Start with a mild, sulfate-free gel cleanser, like the Renée Rouleau Mint Renewal Cleanser. Massage it over your skin and rinse well. Pat your skin dry with a towel.Immediately follow up with an alcohol-free toner. Wipe it over your entire face, leaving it damp.Immediately follow up with a vitamin C serum (this step is important because vitamin C is excellent for inhibiting melanin cells to encourage the fading of discoloration. For the best results, use a vitamin C serum with tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, which is a stable form of vitamin C that’s known to fade brown spots without causing excess irritation).Wait 60 seconds before applying a generous layer of sunscreen to block out damaging UV rays and prevent new sun spots from forming.

The Best Evening Skincare Routine to Get Rid of Sun Spots:

Start with a lotion-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and debris that has collected on your skin throughout the day. Personally, I like the Renée Rouleau Vitamin-Infused Cleansing Emulsion for this purpose. It easily washes stubborn dirt, makeup, and sunscreen off the skin.Immediately follow up with an alcohol-free toner. Wipe it over your entire face, leaving it damp.Next, apply a serum. I recommend using a gentle exfoliating acid serum two nights in a row. Look for one that contains glycolic, lactic, or malic acid, which will help dissolve pigmented cells. After two nights (night three), swap the exfoliating acid serum for one with retinol. On the next two nights (nights four and five) use the same vitamin C serum you use as part of your morning routine. This rotation will give your skin a variety of different ingredients that work together to eliminate unwanted discoloration.Wait 60 seconds before applying a moisturizer that’s formulated for your skin type.

5. Consult a Dermatologist for a Depigmenting Agent, if Necessary

In some cases, a prescription depigmenting agent may be necessary to remove severe pigmentation. I usually suggest trying my at-home skincare routine for a few weeks before doing this, as the combination of an exfoliating acid serum, vitamin C serum, and retinol serum could work just fine. However, if you do need something more, consult a dermatologist.

These agents are prescription only and usually contain up to 4% hydroquinone. Your dermatologist can prescribe custom blends from a compound pharmacy. A great example of one from a compound pharmacy is one that uses 8% hydroquinone, 1% kojic acid, and 1% vitamin E. There are ready-made prescriptions available, but because compounds are custom, they can really cater to each person’s individual skin type and severity of pigmentation. (Note: hydroquinone shouldn’t be used for long periods of time. Be sure to follow the instructions for usage as recommended by your doctor).

6. Get a Professional Chemical Peel or an IPL Treatment

In some cases, at-home creams and serums will only do so much. Sometimes, a professional procedure is needed. My favorite is Bio-Brasion (the next generation of microdermabrasion) combined with a chemical peel. Chemical peels are powerful and can remove deep pigment, but of course, the type of peel that’s needed for each skin type may vary. (Find out the best chemical peel for you, according to your skin type.)

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is also very popular for targeting sun and heat-induced discoloration, and it can lift the pigment from cells. If you do decide to seek the help of a professional, be sure to get a good referral and seek out someone with a lot of experience performing these types of procedures.

Again, procedures like these are best performed during colder months since they often make your skin more sensitive to sun.

7. Prevent Sun Spots From Returning

Once your skin is back to being more even-toned, don’t slack off with your routine. After all, if you have a tendency for sun spots, they can come back. The best way to prevent discoloration from returning is to limit your time in the heat and sun, wear sunscreen faithfully, wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors, and continue to use a skincare routine full of vitamin C, exfoliating acids, and retinol (and a prescription skin bleach if necessary).

I also recommend wearing makeup every day. Yes, really! Wearing either foundation or mineral powder makeup offers a barrier of protection against harmful UV rays. Most types of makeup contain sunscreen. Even if they don’t indicate an SPF number, they have UV-protecting ingredients like titanium dioxide. Because of this, I never leave my skin bare and never suggest that my clients do either (especially those who struggle with hyperpigmentation).

I also suggest getting a skin-brightening facial every six weeks. An esthetician will use professional-strength exfoliating acids as well as vitamin C to ensure the skin stays smooth, glowing, and even-toned. You can also do an at-home chemical peel. I suggest using the Dual Enzyme Softening Peel. It uses papaya and pineapple enzymes to help fade discoloration and brighten the skin. In addition, you can also give your skin a stronger form of exfoliation with this DIY chemical peel using a prescription retinoid.

In conclusion, developing hyperpigmentation during the summer months is common. With the right products and techniques (along with patience), you can get your skin back to its original state in no time. You simply need to put in the time and effort.

Next, learn how to fade post-breakout dark marks!

by Caitlin H,

Jan 9, 2023

Name: Lorrie Mills
Age: 57
Occupation: Director of Quality Assurance and Compliance at a pharmaceutical company
Meal Plan: Balance-Diabetes
Favorite Meal: Turkey Sandwich with Fruit Cocktail
Start Date: May 2022
Starting Weight: 197
Height: 5’10”
Pounds Lost: 15 pounds
Activity Level: Walk 2-5 miles, four days a week
When I get a craving, my go-to trick is: Everything sweet I eat is sugar-free.
My favorite app for tracking weight loss is: Fitbit.

Lorrie Mills is a giving person. During the holiday season, he sponsors families in need by fulfilling their wishlists and providing food.

“[It’s] one of my greatest joys in life,” Lorrie said. “I sponsored two families in 2021, including a single mom. I was able to get them everything they wanted this past year. I even got the single mom a laptop.”

When his nephew graduated high school in June 2022, he committed to paying for his college tuition to help him avoid costly loans.

“I spoil them and take them under my wing as my own children,” Lorrie said of his many nieces and nephews. “I didn’t want him to have to pay.”

But in April 2022, Lorrie learned some troubling news that meant it was time to give something to himself, too.

“My last physical was in April, and my doctor was not happy with my blood work results,” Lorrie said. “My A1-C level was 8.4, my glucose was elevated, and my cholesterol level was elevated.”

Lorrie’s physician started plugging his numbers into laptop software.

“I said, ‘Doctor, what are you doing?’, and he said, ‘I’m putting these numbers in my laptop because two years from now, you may have a stroke or heart attack or be deceased,’” Lorrie said. “He put the fear of God in me. That’s when I took him seriously.”

Lorrie said he went home and found Diet-to-Go on the internet, ordered his first week of meals, and found a nutritionist, who he now meets with monthly.

“When I shared with my nutritionist I was using [Diet-to-Go] … she was very impressed with the meals and the amount of protein with each meal,” Lorrie said. “She said, ‘Lorrie this is great, you made a great selection here.’”

Lorrie’s commitment to the Diet-to-Go program paid off in spades. He shed 15 pounds in three months, and his A1-C levels dropped from 8.4 to 6.6.

“When I went to [my doctor’s] office in August, he didn’t even recognize me,” Lorrie said. “He said he noticed my weight loss in my face.”

Lorrie said his favorite thing about the Diet-to-Go program is its convenience and that the meals leave him satisfied but not uncomfortably full.

“You feel like you’ve had enough to eat, but it doesn’t weigh you down,” Lorrie said. “Not to mention the convenience…you just pull off the plastic and stick it in the microwave.”

He said that is especially helpful when it comes to his work.

“Sometimes I work a long day, sometimes a normal 8 hours, sometimes 10-11 hours,” he said. “It’s convenient knowing I can go home and settle down for a bit, and 5 minutes later, dinner is on the table. I don’t have to worry about cooking a meal for 45 minutes.”

Lorrie added that sticking with the program has never been a challenge for him.

“People say, ‘Well you’re eating all this diet food; don’t you crave a bacon cheeseburger?’,” he said. “I say, ‘Of course I do.” And I do that every once in a while. But I take my Diet-to-Go meals with me. Everyone knows how serious I am.

He also said the cost is comparable to how much he used to spend on takeout and restaurant meals each week.

“I used to spend the same amount of money eating out,” he said. “I pay $150 a week, I get 10 meals. That’s about $15 a meal. You’ll spend more than that eating out four or five times a week. The price isn’t a factor for me. I know it’s what I need to do to stay healthy and stay fit.”

Lorrie also started exercising, taking long walks at least four times a week.

“I used to use the excuse, ‘I don’t have time,’ but it only takes 20 minutes a day,” Lorrie said. “I think most people can sacrifice 20 minutes a day if it means being healthy.”

Lorrie believes sharing his story and spreading the message of how easy it is to get healthy to friends, family and his community is critical.

“It’s just important to share the message with one another to stay as healthy and fit as we can,” he said. “We have to continue to encourage one another [and] partner with one another when it comes to these things.”

Lorrie’s success also propelled his giving spirit. He champions Diet-to-Go by sharing it with friends facing medical issues.

“One friend struggles with her A1-C levels too,” Lorrie said. “I said, ‘You can’t put a price on being healthy.’ I told her to get started today. I planted that seed because I’m just floored by how this turned out for me. I’m just happy.”

Do you have a success story to share? Email us at support@diettogo.com with “Success Story” in the subject line. We’ll give you free meals in return for sharing your photos and story! 

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Author: Caitlin H
Diet-to-Go Community Manager

Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.