By Diana Cina, TheKit.ca

A new year brings a fresh set of resolutions and it's imperative that treating our skin better is on the top of the list.

"Environmental factors are responsible for 95% of visible aging," says Lorraine Hamilton, Senior Aesthetician at AXI Spa in Toronto. But taking care of our skin in the correct manner will help to slow down the aging process and nourish our largest organ. Here is a list of skin care to-dos, courtesy of Lorraine Hamilton, that should be put into place come 2012.

Wear Sunscreen
Even in the winter, UV rays can penetrate the skin, so it's important to wear an SPF. If you don’t want to put on sunscreen, many moisturizers and even some makeup come with SPF in them.

Exfoliate
Exfoliation lifts off dead skin cells and allows your moisturizers and toners to actually permeate the skin. Hamilton recommends exfoliating two to three times a week.

Sleep, Eat Well and Drink Water
Getting a good night’s sleep and eating well are skincare essentials. Go for fruits and veggies that are bright in colour. They're rich in antioxidants and can help extend the life of skin cells. Drink plenty of water and when you're consuming alcohol, make sure to match each drink with a glass of water to prevent dehydration.

Tone and Moisturize
"Toners are so important because they draw water back to the skin," says Hamilton. Toners work in conjunction with moisturizers to retain hydration. Choose a moisturizer according to the season. Hamilton notes that you wouldn't wear the same shirt in the summer as you would in the winter, so opt for a moisturizer with a richer texture for the cold months.

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