As the leaves change, so should our skincare. Fall is a beautiful time of transition, and it is the season that is “just right.” Not too hot and not too cold. The goal is to effortlessly assess, reward and transition your skin from summer to winter. Just like the gut, our skin has its own microbiome that is impacted by external factors.
1. Set the foundation. With a strong supplement game, you can consistently support the factors that contribute to your skin's hydration and elasticity. Ingestibles provide an offensive approach and do not need to be adjusted for seasons and climates. Therefore, as temperatures and humidity change, your defensive approach with topicals will be more successful as skin hydration is already being supported from the inside out.
2. It is the perfect time for a facial. Take inventory of summer skin. How much time did you spend in the sun? Whether it is at home or at a spa, treat yourself to a facial. Some at home tips: When your hydrating mask is on, fill a bowl with boiling water. With a towel over your head, and a safe distance away, let the steam supercharge your mask. For daily spa-like benefits, the use of a roller or gua sha stone can aid in the absorption of your products.
3. Use a hydrating cleanser. Not all cleansers are created equal, and many can strip oils off your skin. By using a hydrating cleanser, you can support your skin's microbiome.
4. Gently exfoliate. Create a smoother canvas by removing dead skin cells with a gentle exfoliation. Apply just enough pressure so that skin feels clean, but not irritated. To minimize dryness during this less humid season, it is recommended to not exfoliate daily.
5. Protect with sunscreen. It might not be as hot, but the sun's rays can still damage your skin. The good news is that there are so many options for mineral based sunscreens, including those with a tint, that can provide a great alternative to foundation.
6. Use a medium weight serum. If you put your facial oil or serum on the shelf over summer, it is time to reintroduce it. Fall is a time for medium weight serums.
7. Increase use of moisturizer, using a thicker one at night.
8. Soothe while you sleep. As our bodies are warmer when we sleep, products soak in better. Bedtime is the perfect time to moisturize your feet, hands and elbows. Sealing in the moisture now will help keep cracks at bay during the winter months.
9. Slug your lips! By applying Vaseline or Aquaphor over your lip mask at bedtime you create an occlusive barrier that holds in the moisture. If you are consistent, you can kiss dry lips goodbye.
10. Transition your products. As your sweaters get heavier, so should your serums and moisturizers. This, combined with consistent beauty supplementation that is supporting your skin from the inside out, will help prepare your skin for winter.
