There’s nothing quite like New Years to bring out the best in people. Everyone wants to start off the new year afresh, whether it means amping up your workout routine, vowing to cut down on your chocolate intake or even to take a few more risks in life. If you’re already creating a list of resolutions for 2012, you might want to include a few beauty-related tasks to ensure that your skin, nails, hair and body get the treatment they deserve. Here are some ideas to consider, inspired by The Beauty Department.

1. Wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. Although many women have been bombarded by the media when it comes to how damaging the sun’s rays are, that hasn’t stopped some from skipping the sunscreen. Ensure the protection of your skin by slathering it on in the morning as part of your routine – not just before you’re going to the beach. Makeup like Dermablend – Cover Creme SPF 30 will ensure that you’re getting coverage in more ways than one.

2. Fake it, don’t bake it. If you’re still heading to the tanning bed to get your glow on, cut it out already! Tanning beds are no safer than the sun, and some experts argue that they can do even more damage since you’re receiving direct exposure. Get a faux bronze look by using self-tanners like TanTowel – Self-Tan Towelette. These make the application process a breeze and they won’t leave any tell-tale streaks.

3. Exfoliate at least once a week. Getting rid of dead skin cells is the key to a glowing complexion that’s not dull or flaky. Use an exfoliating scrub for your face once or twice a week, and a rich scrub for your body in the shower. Get Fresh – SPA Sugar Body Scrub is the perfect treat.

4. Find your signature scent. There’s nothing like a fresh fragrance to remind people of you even when you’re not around, but it’s not possible if you’re always switching up your perfume. Take the time to find out what smells best on you, then invest in a few different products in the scent to ensure that you’re always exuding the aroma.

5. Don’t go to sleep without taking off your makeup. Leaving makeup on while you’re in bed at night is never a good idea. Your pores can become clogged, leading to acne, irritation and an overall messy complexion. Even if you’re too tired to wash it all off, keep a stash of wipes near your bed and use it to gently remove any product. Rilastil – Daily Care Make-Up Removing Wipes are the perfect thing.

6. Clean out your collection. Now’s the perfect time to go through your medicine cabinet, makeup bag and toiletry stash and get rid of anything old. Most products have an expiration date on them, but if you can’t remember when you got it, it’s definitely worth tossing. Expired products won’t work as well and could cause problems for your skin if you continue to use them.

7. Embrace your hair’s natural texture. Your strands could use a break from heat tools every now and then, so you should become comfortable with your hair’s natural state. That doesn’t mean you have to skip products altogether – a great anti-frizz serum like Leonor Greyl – Serum de Soie Sublimateur can do wonders.

8. Stop biting your nails. Every now and then, we all slip up and go to town nibbling that pesky jagged edge or hangnail – but you have to stop! Carry a nail file in your bag for on-the-go fixes and keep your nails polished and cute so you won’t feel the urge to bite them.

As long as you incorporate some or all of these beauty resolutions, 2012 should be your most beautiful year yet!

Eyes are often the first thing people look at. When you take in someone’s face, you’re not going to hone in on their lips or notice the shape of their nose. You’ll be taking in their eyes – what color they are and what kind of vibe they’re giving off. Some people say eyes are the windows into people’s souls, so if you want to tweak just one thing about your makeup look, you may want to consider defining your eyes.

A set of fabulous fringe will definitely do the trick to getting your eyes even more attention than they normally get, but not everyone was born with thick, full lashes. Luckily there are plenty of ways you can upgrade your lashes and make them look as full and lush as you wish they were.

All you need are a few tools and products and you’ll be on your way to luxurious eyelashes in no time. The first thing you want to invest in is a good eyelash curler, like Talika – Heated Eye Lash Curler. Curling your lashes will make them look fuller and longer because they’ll be more noticeable than if they were sticking straight out. A heated curler gets you fast results that will last all day, but even the regular curlers, like Paula Dorf – CURL-UP Eyelash Curler work great.

The next thing you need is a great mascara. There are plenty of different kinds out there that do exactly what they say they’re going to do, whether it’s adding volume, lengthening, thickening or defining. Some kinds, like ModelCo – Fiber Lash Extreme Lash Extension Mascara Kit have fibers in the formula which bind to your lashes and make them look much longer. It’s like fake lashes in a tube! Finding the right kind for you just depends on what kind of look you’re going for. Once you find a mascara that you like, you may want to invest in a shimmery topcoat that you can add on top of it for a little extra sparkle on special occasions.

When you apply mascara, it’s always a good idea to apply two or three coats. This will make sure every one of your lashes is covered and you’re getting the effect you want. It’s important to allow each coat to dry before adding more on, otherwise you won’t be building the product. Use a lash comb like Youngblood – Synthetic Eyebrow/Eyelash Defining Brush after each coat to make sure your lashes are separated and don’t have any clumps.

For really special occasions where you want to go all-out with your fringe, you may want to try a pair of false lashes. All you have to do is apply the glue either to your lash line or on the edge of the falsies, then use a pair of tweezers to hold the lashes and press them onto your lash line. It’s crucial to get them as close to your own lashes as possible. If you don’t want the full effect, ModelCo – Lash Out Individual Lashes + Glue can give you just a hint of length by adding a few lashes into the middle of your lids or on the outer corners.

After you apply false lashes, cover up the line by smudging an eyeliner over it, then using mascara to blend the fake lashes with your real ones. Your eyes will pop and you’ll feel like a supermodel every time you blink.

As long as you choose the right mascara for your lashes and take the time to curl them before you apply it, you’ll hardly need any other eye makeup to make your eyes look wide awake and beautiful.

Many Asian women get frustrated with eye makeup, which doesn’t always play up gorgeous eye shapes and might not show when your eye is open. Fortunately, there are tons of tricks, techniques and looks that you can use to pull off fabulous eye makeup that will enhance your unique features.

Techniques to try

1. Use foundation or a makeup primer on your eyelids. This will make sure your shadow stays on and lasts all day.

2. Eyes will look bigger if you layer your eyeshadow. Use darker colors close to your lash lines and lighter colors as you go upward on your lids. This gradual change of tone will give the illusion of depth.

3. When using an eyeliner (like Sothys – Waterproof Soft Eye Pencil, which comes with a smudge tool) to define bottom lash lines, smudge it out. This will prevent your eyes from looking smaller and bring your outer edges forward, creating a larger look.

4. Full brows and lips will keep your eye makeup looking natural. Use an eyebrow pencil to shade in sparse areas and a plumping gloss to amp up your pout.

5. If you have monolids, there’s no need to fake a crease with eyeshadow if you tailor your look to work for you.

6. Do your eye makeup before the rest of your face. This will prevent any loose shadow or mascara clumps from falling onto your cheeks as you’re applying.

7. If you’re going with false eyelashes, use individual lashes for a more natural look that will make your eyes appear wider.

Looks to try

1. Everyday glamour. This style works great if you don’t want a heavy makeup look or are just starting to experiment with eye makeup. To create defined eyes, sweep on a cool brown or plum eyeshadow, like one from Pixi – Eye Beauty Kit, along your top and lower lash lines. Go up your lid a little bit so it will show. Use a dark brown liner on your top lash lines, curl your lashes and apply a lengthening mascara. Chic and easy!

2. Modern smokey eye. This edgy look works great on all skin tones and even on close-set eyes. Use a warm brown eyeshadow all over your lids and slightly above the creases. Extend the color straight out beyond the outer corners if your eyes are closely set. Do the same with your lower lash lines, then apply dark brown or black eyeshadow over the top and bottom lash lines, without extending outward. Go over the top of the lash line with a black eyeliner, curl lashes and use plenty of lengthening mascara. Pair with pink lips for a cute touch.

3. Glowing goddess. An allover glow will give fair-skinned ladies a touch of radiance. Use a shimmery light gold shadow three-quarters of the way up your lids as well as on your inner corners and lower lash line. Use an olive green eyeshadow along the upper lash lines, making it thicker as you get to the outer corners. Go over the top lash line with a black eyeliner, then line the inner rims of your bottom lids. Curl your lashes and top with mascara for a fresh-faced look.

4. Bronzed babe. This, warm, monochromatic look compliments a tanned skin tone. Use a nude eyeshadow all over your lid, then apply a cool brown shadow from your lash lines to just above your creases. Sweep a dark brown or black eyeliner over your upper lash line and on your lower inner rims. Curl your lashes and use a brown or black mascara. Finish with a bit of bronzer and an apricot gloss.

Just when you’ve mastered the summer makeup look, September rolls around and it’s time for a seasonal update. Luckily, this fall’s trends are easy to create and wearable with just about everything in your wardrobe, so making the switch should be effortless.

1. Metallic smokey eyes are totally in for fall and ready to spice up your night-time look. Just use your regular smoky-eye makeup (dark liner, dark shadow) and add a pop of a metallic shade like gold, bronze or silver to add a smoldering touch. Too Faced – Smokey Eye Kit can help you master the effect.

2. Dark red lips are bold but perfect for a bit of glamour. Keep the rest of your makeup simple to avoid any color competition, and make your lips the center of attention. Choose a wine-inspired color, and add a touch of clear gloss to achieve your own pout perfection.

3. Eyeliner is your best bet for adding definition, but rather than creating a perfect line, smudge it up a bit. Use a powder instead on your top lash lines and go over it with a wet brush for a soft, blended look.

4. Neutral colors are always in, but this fall’s version uses matching shades for a monochromatic look. Use a product like Jane Iredale – In Touch Cream Blush Stick for eyelids, cheeks, and lips. You’ll have a fast, easy application and a simple, pretty glow.

5. Ultra defined lashes are in for fall, so pick your favorite mascara and go a little overboard with multiple coats to make those peepers really pop. Skip the eyeliner and play up just your top lashes for a wide-eyed effect.

6. Matte lipstick is all the rage, and pretty pinks and corals are your best bets for making a serious impact. Use a lipstick brush to start at the center of lips and wing it out into the corners. Apply a bit of powder on top for a shine-free finish that will leave your lips looking soft and kissable.

7. Flushed cheeks are cute for any season, and fall is no exception. For a lasting impression, use a cream blush, which will stay put and make your skin look dewy. Use on the apples of your cheeks to define your facial shape.

8. Nude lips are extra sexy when you keep them glossy. A nude lipstick and matching gloss will warm up your face without making you feel naked, and you won’t have to worry about a perfect application because it will blend right in!

9. A glowing, candlelit effect on your skin is perfect for fall, as long as you stay away from overly shimmery or frosty shades. Choose a warm, peachy highlighter to smooth on the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and the inner corners of your eyes for a fresh take.

10. It may seem a little strange at first, but glossy eyelids look fresh and pretty. Just put on your normal shade of eyeshadow and top with a touch of lip gloss. A clear shade will let your eyeshadow shine through, but if you’re feeling a little daring, use a tinted lip gloss for a little extra oomph.

11. You can relax when it comes to plucking your eyebrows this fall. A strong, defined brow is the new shape this season, and it’ll bring attention to your eyes. Don’t pluck too much, and try using a brow pencil in a shade darker than your brows to amp up sparse areas and give more definition. Your eyes will be loving the flattering effect.