2026 Skin Resolutions…

A little guide of my favorite skincare products, treatments, and habits to make 2026 the year of the Glow

(Photo Taken In Killiney, Ireland)

Writing to you from Dublin, Ireland where I’m reflecting on the last 12 months… 2025 was a year of massive breakthroughs—we moved past basic hydration and into the era of bio-hacking our own complexions. We stopped just “applying cream” and started educating ourselves about exosomes, signal peptides, and light modalities that all provide immense positive change to the skin. But at its heart, a New Year’s resolution for your skin is about three things: resilience, health, and longevity… with a little vanity sprinkled in!

I want 2026 to be the year you stop chasing “perfect” and start cultivating “healthy.” I’m looking for that lit-from-within glow that only comes from a mixture of clinical precision and lifestyle discipline. Whether you want to treat this as an a la carte menu of upgrades or commit to the full “chef’s tasting” experience, this list represents the absolute best of 2025—the products and habits that actually earned their keep.

The Foundation: What You Eat & Drink

Before I suggest anything topical, I want to start from the inside out. Nutrition is the true architect of your complexion. Think of your skin as a mirror for your gut; if you’re fueling with inflammation, your skin will show it in the form of dullness, breakouts, or premature aging.

For 2026, make it a non-negotiable resolution to eat more cleanly and prioritize whole foods. Focus on high-vibrancy fruits and veggies, and maybe cool it on the red meat for a while. Instead, load up on fatty fish like salmon or mackerel—the omega-3s are essentially “internal moisturizer.” And of course: Water, Water, Water. If you aren’t hitting your hydration goals, the most expensive serum in the world is just a band-aid over a “bullet hole”.

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The 2025 “Best of” Skincare Menu

Now that the foundation is set, let’s talk about the topical stars and tech that defined the past year and will carry your skin through 2026.

Facials (NYC)

Rescue Spa

An efficacious facial is a wonderful way to start the new year on a high note. The platinum standard in facial treatments is Rescue Spa. This amazing spa has some of the most advanced machines paired with a wonderful and highly skilled team of estheticians. The owner, Danuta Mieloch of Straight From The Source , has crafted an oasis for skincare devotees. One of my favorite facialists is Ella Lewis (a master esthetician). I always do the Fix It All Facial and ask Ella what I need to add on. I’d also recommend getting a facial every 6-8 weeks. If you are in NYC this is a must visit!

Book Your Treatment: RescueSpa.com

Devices You Need To Known About:

Nira Pro Laser:

This beauty is one of my favorite lasers, the price point is great and the clinical results are profound. Additionally this laser is extremely quick to use, taking less than 5 mins to do the entire face and neck. It uses targeted laser energy to fire into the skin, creating a slight warmth on the skin.

Disclaimer: Those with melasma.. you might need to avoid this as the heat could have the potential to make the melasma worse.

To Try: Nira.com

Lyma Laser:

A lovely splurge, it’s a cold laser that requires significantly more time and attention to use than the Nira, however those with heat sensitive skin conditions see a marked improvement (melasma etc.). In addition to my personal use I have a group of friends who all swear by it (positive anecdotal results). This laser penetrates deep into the skin to deliver laser energy to the deep layers of skin. The energy stimulates collogean and elastin production… leading to a reversal in wrinkles, fine lines, and an improvement in brightness and skin tone.

To Try: LymaLaser.com

TheraFace LED Mask

The TheraFace LED Mask is an extremely effective, professional-grade skincare device that I highly recommend. Its power stems from over 600 LEDs providing immense facial coverage to stimulate both collagen and elastin production, resulting in visibly firmer, more even, and youthful skin. In addition to its powerful benefits, the mask is user-friendly and incorporates a relaxing, vibration-based facial massage to enhance the self-care experience.

To Try: Therabody.com

Cleansers:

Allies of Skin Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser

The Allies of Skin Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser is the ultimate multitasker because it treats your skin more like a serum than a traditional cleanser. It’s formulated with silk amino acids and organic oils that work to dissolve grime, SPF, and makeup while simultaneously pumping your skin with antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin E. I love it because it respects your skin barrier so deeply—you’re left with a complexion that feels incredibly bouncy and hydrated rather than that dry, “squeaky clean” tightness we are all trying to avoid.

To Try: AlliesOfSkin.com

***Use Code: CIAN20 for 20% off your order***

MBR Enzyme Cleansing Booster

I refer to this as the “Rolls Royce” of cleansers… it uses enzymes in the form of a powder to powerfully clean the face while not stripping it of moisture. Make no mistake, a cleanser for almost $300 is crazy however… it’s one of the best on the market & lasts north of 7 months. You only need to use it 2-3 times a week and the results speak for themselves: the skin radiates in clarity, appears refreshed, even and is prepped for the next steps in your routine. I have not encountered a cleanser that makes my skin look this good. If you are searching for your dream cleanser and are willing to pay top dollar for it… this is your match.

To Try: VioletGrey.com

Vintner’s Daughter Active Renewal Cleanser

One of my favorite cleansers… period. I wish there was a travel size… I travel a lot and this is the product I miss the most while on the road. This cleanser is intelligently formulated with both oil and water ingredients… effectively acting as a double cleanser. I wear SPF 45-55 daily (of course) and it takes everyone off in one go. In addition to be a cleansing powerhouse, it also makes the skin bright and luminous. I know the price is steep for a cleanser, but I would never recommend something unless I fully believe in it and use it.

To Try: Vintner’sDaughter.com

CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser

The CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser is a solid, “cheap and cheerful” staple that proves you don’t always have to break the bank for results. It uses salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and renew the skin, effectively preventing the daily buildup of oil and sebum that leads to congestion. I love it because it’s a reliable workhorse that keeps your texture smooth and clear without ever disrupting your moisture barrier.

To Try: DermStore.com Or Amazon.com

Retinoids: (I Suggest To Choose 1)

If you want to start the new year right… get a great retinol product that works for your skin and budget. I consider retinoids (the family of retinol products) to be one of the pillars of the foundation of youth. Speaking openly… they are fucking brilliant.

My Favorite Retinoid:

Medik8 Crystal Retinal:

As a seasoned retinoid user, the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 24 is my favorite, delivering transformative results with incredible efficiency. This potent serum works up to 11 times faster than standard retinol, yet its crystal encapsulation system ensures the active ingredient is released gradually overnight, dramatically reducing irritation. It’s an expert-level strength designed for maximum efficacy against wrinkles and firmness—just remember that even at this level, a pea-sized amount is all you need! Not to worry is you are not an expert… there are less strong formulations to choose from.

To Try: Medik8.com

iS Clincial Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3

This retinol from iS Clinical is an intelligent advancement in retinoid technology, leveraging a powerful combination of 0.3% Retinol and Bakuchiol to deliver accelerated results with exceptional skin tolerance. This formula is truly one of the best on the market, as the synergy of Retinol and Bakuchiol, along with key antioxidants like Vitamin C and Ectoin, ensures maximum efficacy in smoothing fine lines and brightening the complexion while keeping irritation at bay. —don’t let the 0.3% retinol concentration fool you, this product is strong (in a good way).

To Try: DermStore.com or Amazon.com

Peptides, Exosomes, and Stem Cells: (I suggest to choose 1 or 2)

An emerging scientific endeavor in skincare… these little parts of proteins are like tiny messengers telling the skin to act younger, produce more collagen, provide hydration, and help even the skin tone. All of this translates into a major improvement in skin’s overall appearance and radiance.

Angela Caglia Cell Forte Serum

One of the best serums on the market! It has truly impressed me with its innovative approach to anti-aging. The strategic combination of peptides and exosomes derived from human adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) seems to unlock a level of rejuvenation I haven't experienced with other serums. It stands out as one of the most effective treatments I've incorporated into my routine, delivering noticeable improvements in skin texture and overall radiance that solidify its place as a top-tier serum. It isn’t cheap, but you will see results, plus it replaces multiple products.

To Try: AngelaCaglia.com

Allies Of Skin Multi Peptide Serum & Copper Tri-Peptide Serum (Bundle)

This bundle from Allies of Skin is the definition of a dynamic duo, offering a high-tech approach to skin resilience. These serums utilize intelligent peptides to deeply plump the skin and visibly iron out fine lines, while the copper tri-peptides work overtime to soothe the complexion and significantly reduce the look of redness. It is a truly beautiful pair to have in your serum arsenal if you’re looking for that firm, calm, and expensive-looking finish.

To Try: AlliesOfSkin.com

*** Use Code: CIAN20 for 20% off your order***

Moisturizers:

Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream

The Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream is one of my go-tos for calming the skin during those harsh winter months when the cold elements lead to unwanted reactivity and redness. Its lovely, rich formula provides a protective layer of hydration that feels deeply nourishing without being heavy. I love it because it acts like a botanical shield, ensuring your complexion stays balanced and serene even in the most biting weather.

To Try: DrHauschka.com

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

The Rich Cream is a true luxury and consistently one of my favorite moisturizers because it delivers unparalleled hydration and a visible transformation to my skin. Its TFC8® technology makes my complexion feel incredibly nourished, plump, and remarkably rejuvenated, making it worth every penny. If this is your first venture with Augustinus Bader be sure to purchase the small size before committing… and be sure to thank me later.

To Try: AugustinusBader.com Or Amazon.com

Oils:

Furtuna Bi-Phase Moisturizing Oil

An innovative and profoundly hydrating and brightening product, this oil’s unique bi-phase formula combines olive oil and olive leaf water with a potent array of wild-foraged botanicals from a private estate in Sicily. It is exceptionally replenishing, addresses visible signs of aging, and imparts a beautiful, plumped appearance and glow. Despite its deep nourishment, it feels remarkably lightweight.

To Try: FurtunaSkin.com

**Use CIAN15 for 15% off**

LESSE Ritual Serum

This is a new oil-serum in my routine and I am so glad I added it! It is more of a dry oil-serum hybrid that deeply nourishes while absorbing incredibly quickly. What I love most is how it repairs the moisture barrier using a potent blend of antioxidants and minerals, leaving the skin with a refined, luminous glow. It is also incredibly soothing; it calms the skin effectively thanks to the inclusion of turmeric and chamomile, making it perfect for reducing redness or irritation.

Founder Neada Deters has truly crafted a wonderfully effective and unique serum. It’s a lovely product from a great brand!

To Try: Lesse.com

Masks:

Masks provide an instant result on the skin, perfect for time where you need to look your best… such as a big event. There are so many on the market, but the one from 111 Skin which is an eye mask is very special and works wonders!

111 Skin Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask

The 111 Skin Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask is a favorite because it delivers intense hydration, effectively plumping the under-eye area for a well-rested appearance. It’s packed with a powerful blend of retinol, niacinamide, and peptides that work to smooth fine lines and wrinkles while retexturizing the skin. It combines plumping hyaluronic acid with brightening rosehip extract to not only moisturize but also promote a luminous, even-toned look.

To Try: DermStore.com

111 Skin Rose Gold Brightening Face Mask

When a big event is on the horizon and I need to look my absolute best, the 111SKIN Rose Gold Brightening Facial Treatment Mask is my secret weapon. This cult-favorite hydrogel mask is infused with Damask rose extract, which work together to calm inflammation, soothe the skin, and deliver a truly radiant, luminous glow. The instant brightening and plumping effect it provides is unparalleled, this is one of the best masks money can buy!

To Try: DermStore.com

***Written from a very dyslexic mind, please forgive any typos***