I Created a Spring Beauty Plan—9 Essential Steps I'm Implementing This Season

      TikTok trends may be fleeting, but currently, the ones that hold the most appeal are rooted in nostalgia. Take, for instance, frosty lipstick, matte makeup, and side bangs—they're making a comeback and are better than ever, transporting us back to 2006 instead of 2026. Gen Z is even revisiting vintage nail colors and perfumes, while long-past music, memes, and pop culture references are trending. It's as if everyone longs for a simpler time, and I can relate. I've indulged in my fair share of nostalgic content, and my FYP is inundated with it. Recently, however, I've become particularly fascinated with a specific trend known as the "personal curriculum," which has sparked thousands of posts and mentions. This trend entails compiling a list of books, articles, documentaries, and even new experiences to prioritize in the months ahead. Inspired by a school theme, it allows adults to keep learning, growing, and improving despite our frequently busy lives and routines. As someone who sees herself as a lifelong learner, I appreciate this trend. It motivated me to devise my own personal curriculum and tackle my extensive collection of TBR books. After some time, I pondered: what if I applied this trend to my beauty routine? I thought it might assist me in maintaining consistency with certain habits and treatments I've been wanting to incorporate. Thus, I created a comprehensive spring beauty curriculum, which I'm sharing here to A) make it official, B) hold myself accountable, and C) perhaps inspire you, dear reader, to do the same, should you be inclined.

      **Skincare**

      *Use Retinol 3x Per Week*

      After turning 30 last year, I decided it was time to consistently use retinol. Though I've been on and off with it for years, any dermatologist will tell you that retinoids are a long-term investment—more like a marathon than a sprint. They yield the best outcomes when applied regularly over an extended period, helping with collagen production, refining lines and wrinkles, diminishing discoloration, and reducing texture issues. I've committed to utilizing a retinol serum three nights a week. (I have sensitive skin, so retinol suffices for me, but eventually, I'll transition to prescription-grade tretinoin with a dermatologist’s guidance.) It's crucial to remember that retinoids can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so daily sunscreen application is vital when using them. I already use sunscreen daily, which is why I didn't include it in my spring beauty curriculum.

      *Use Azelaic Acid Every Other Day*

      Azelaic acid is one of the most overlooked ingredients in skincare. It gently exfoliates, improves texture, targets acne, calms redness, and reduces discoloration—all without irritating the skin (making it suitable even for sensitive skin like mine). Like retinol, I’ve used it occasionally over the years, but I want to formally include it in my spring beauty routine, especially since my rosacea has flared up recently and I need relief from redness. Following expert advice, I’ll gradually introduce it into my routine, starting with every other day in the morning and eventually using it daily. Again, I’ll continue my commitment to wearing SPF since it is still an exfoliating acid and can heighten sun sensitivity.

      *Use an LED Mask 5x Per Week*

      LED face masks are remarkably effective. Blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, while red light promotes collagen production, reduces inflammation, and enhances cellular energy. Other wavelengths are available for various skin issues, but these two are the most popular. Since I deal with dull and inflamed skin (thanks to rosacea) and am noticing signs of aging, I know I’d benefit from consistent use of my preferred LED face masks. My goal is to use one every night, five days a week, for optimal results. Until now, I’ve used one sporadically whenever I remembered, but that approach isn’t sufficient.

      **Hair**

      *Use Bond Repair Treatments 1x Per Week*

      Having highlighted my hair for years, damage is unavoidable. My hair is susceptible to breakage and split ends, and if I don't stay on top of my hair care routine, it shows. Regrettably, I neglected it through winter, and now I’m dealing with the consequences. That’s why I’m committing to weekly use of bond-building treatments this spring. These treatments repair broken bonds in the hair cuticle; most focus on disulfide bonds, while some advanced treatments also strengthen hydrogen and salt bonds indirectly. This not only fortifies the hair against split ends and damage but results in shinier, bouncier strands.

      **Bodycare**

      *Use Body Creams and Oils Nightly*

      While many switch to lighter, hydrating products in spring and summer, I do the opposite. Spending ample time outdoors during warmer months puts a strain on my skin, so I prefer rich, comforting formulas. These products