2025 is coming to an end, and we’re ever-so-excitedly looking forward to the new year. A fresh start calls for self-reflection and introspection to see where we’re at in our lives, as well as to build new resolutions to work towards for the year ahead. Setting resolutions not only makes your vision and purpose crystal clear, but following up with them throughout the year is also a good way to track your progress. Below are your STYLEVANA editor’s beauty resolutions for 2026, working towards stronger, glowier skin, better MOTDs, and everything in between. Keep reading on for all the details.


1. Stay consistent with Retinoids

Retinoids (encompassing Retinol and Retinal) get a bad rep for being irritating and damaging to the skin, and they certainly can be difficult to get along with if you’re not using them right. The first step is to not fear retinoids, but to understand why they’re not working for your skin. If you’re new to Retinoids, look for gentle formulas that are compatible with sensitive skin and mix it into your cream every other night. Once your skin has become used to it, you can up the frequency of use to every night, making sure to seal everything in with a replenishing cream. You don’t need to apply too much to have your Retinoid be effective, and don’t forget the sunscreen in the AM to prevent your skin from getting damaged.

 

CELIMAX - The Vita-A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster

CELIMAX - The Vita-A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - CELIMAX

 

SOME BY MI - Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum

SOME BY MI - Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SOME BY MI


2. Try cool toned makeup

As a warm-toned girly, I’m constantly looking out for the same browns and neutrals that I’ve always pursued and have never really given cool-toned makeup a second thought. 2026 is the year I’m branching out: trend predictions show the Clean Girl look is out and maximalist makeup is back, which gives me the inspiration to try something new outside of my comfort zone. I’m seeing K-pop idols with the cutest frosty stage looks and celebs with the most snatched smokey eyes, and it’s high time I whipped up these looks on myself. At the end of the day, makeup is just makeup and can be washed away (with a trustworthy oil cleanser, of course). Now I’ve just gotta find out who’s doing Daniela from KATSEYE’s beats…

 

CLIO - Pro Eye Palette Air

CLIO - Pro Eye Palette Air

Courtesy of Korean Makeup Brand - CLIO

 

Fwee - Rose Obsession Stay-fit Lip Tint

Fwee - Rose Obsession Stay-fit Lip Tint

Courtesy of Korean Makeup Brand - Fwee


3. Maintain a masking routine

Confession: as much as I love skincare, I’m never consistent with my masking routine. I’ll slap on a sheet mask when I feel like it, but it’s consistency that will actually get me long-term benefits and visible results. My resolution is to designate a particular day of the week as Mask Day, during which I pick out a mask according to what my skin needs and treat my skin to a pick-me-up–after all, a little self-care never hurt nobody. If you can relate, make sure you’re carving out time of your own for some relaxing mask time.

 

BEAUTY OF JOSEON - Centella Asiatica Calming Mask

BEAUTY OF JOSEON - Centella Asiatica Calming Mask

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - BEAUTY OF JOSEON

 

Pyunkang Yul - Highly Moisturizing Essence Mask Pack

Pyunkang Yul - Highly Moisturizing Essence Mask Pack

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Pyunkang Yul


4. Try new ingredients

The beauty of K-beauty innovation is that there’s always something new to explore and try out. One thing constantly being worked upon is ingredients, making our skincare formulas even more effective in solving our skin concerns. We’re well acquainted with Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid, but how are Matcha and Volufiline going to help us achieve our skin goals? There’s much to play around with in 2026.

 

HOUSE OF HUR - Phyto Brew Matcha Dual Cream And Gel

HOUSE OF HUR - Phyto Brew Matcha Dual Cream And Gel

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - HOUSE OF HUR

 

SUNGBOON EDITOR - Silk Peptide Intensive Lifting Ampoule

SUNGBOON EDITOR - Silk Peptide Intensive Lifting Ampoule

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SUNGBOON EDITOR


5. Try new textures

In the coming year we predict jelly mists and bubble serums will have a big moment, outperforming older formulas that we love but we’re ready to set aside for the time being. This editor is so ready for a fresh start in her routine, and I’m looking forward to trying all the new textures that are making their debut in the year ahead.

 

medicube - PDRN Pink Collagen Bubble Serum

medicube - PDRN Pink Collagen Bubble Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube

 

medicube - PDRN Pink Collagen Glow Jelly Mist Serum

medicube - PDRN Pink Collagen Glow Jelly Mist Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube


6. Be proactive with hair loss

It’s almost comforting to think hair loss has become such a common issue amongst people all over the world, but it’s certainly not something we’re letting slip by without taking action. Scalp care is an integral part of overall hair care in South Korea, as it’s understood that maintaining a healthy scalp is what’s going to help support healthy hair growth. From treatment mists to rollerball ampoules, there are so many ways to nourish the scalp and prevent hair loss in the long run–it just takes a little effort and consistency to incorporate it into your daily routine, but the results are sure to amaze.

 

SOME BY MI - Cica Peptide Anti Hair Loss Derma Scalp Shampoo

SOME BY MI - Cica Peptide Anti Hair Loss Derma Scalp Shampoo

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SOME BY MI

 

aromatica - Rosemary Root Enhancer

aromatica - Rosemary Root Enhancer

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - aromatica


What are your beauty resolutions for 2026? Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!