The Beauty Junkees Guide to Fall Beauty Prep!

The transition between Summer and Fall can be hectic for some women, considering how carefree many of us are in the summer. Usually the proper hair products are not used, sunscreen was not used as much as it maybe should have and nails can be damaged from outdoor activities or just lack of maintenance. Fall is always a great time to get everything “back to normal.” Whether the kids are going back to school (getting some personal time back moms), or it’s time to start a new semester in college, or even just wanting to get back to your old routine, Fall is the perfect time to do it. Waiting too long to hit the spa or salon may cause problems considering fall and winter are the biggest holiday seasons and appointments generally fill up quickly!

First off, let’s start with hair. The one thing that needs to get done is some maintenance to your mane. Some women tremble from hearing those words, but nothing ever comes good from skimping on the hair products and not getting regular trims. Constant solar exposure all summer has a negative effect on the hair. The sun can lighten the color (for blondes this may not be an issue,) but it can distort the color for some blondes and also breaks down the hair’s protein causing a weak and brittle cuticle. When going to your stylist she may recommend using a UV product to strengthen the hair, prevent color to dull and adding shine by coating the hair to prevent any more solar damage. She may also recommend to you a shine spray or serum for even more protection in the winter months. Getting regular trims about every six weeks will ultimately prevent any horrifying experiences at the hair salon like “there goes six inches off my hair!!”

Next is skin care, it’s that time of the year when you look in the mirror and say “where did these sun spots come from.” Sun damage is very common to happen in the summer, especially since a “tan” is considered damaged skin. Obviously, not all of us stay indoors all summer or wear the correct protection from the sun. Book an appointment at the spa with an Esthetician and see what she can do for you, most spas should carry a facial to lighten sun spots and prevent further damage. A great antioxidant too look for is Vitamin C. Vitamin C also known as ascorbic acid is key in the production of collagen. Vitamin C helps create scar tissue and helps the skin repair itself. It can not only be found in many foods but also in products that you can use topically. This vitamin can reduce sunburn and prevent the consequences of long term sun exposure, which is why many people incorporate them in facials (the sun is the biggest factor with aging.) The daily use of sun screen will dramatically decrease the risk of sun damage as well. So if you don’t have SPF that you’re using every day, be sure to put that on your fall product to do list.

Lastly is nail maintenance, nails should be manicured every three to four weeks depending on how much wear and tear they’re going through. A full manicure should consist of: nail soaking and cleansing, cuticle maintenance, filing and shaping, buffing of the nail and a polish color if desired (polish change should be done once a week.) There are many new nail advancements within the last couple years as acrylic nails are fading out and gel nails are gaining popularity. Gel manicures are fun, easy and virtually harmless to the natural nail. Gels come in many different colors and designs to fit the fall needs.