Get Your Skin Holiday-Ready

Fall is my favorite time of year - the weather cools off, Autumn colors are in abundance, and I get to wear my favorite sweaters! This time of year also heralds the season of the holiday party - starting this month, social calendars begin to fill up with invitations to gather with friends and family and celebrate. Whether your holiday season includes a formal evening gala or a casual football-watching party, you'll want to keep your skin looking its best. Here are 3 ways you can take care of your skin now so that you can put your best face forward...

1. Get An Acupuncture Facial

Yep, acupuncture facials are a thing. And they're a wonderful tool for getting your skin in tip-top shape. In fact, Vogue Magazine dubbed acupuncture facials "the ultimate pre-party trick." And its no wonder - an acupuncture facial balances your entire body inside and out, leaves your complexion firm and glowing, and has absolutely zero downtime.  That means you can get an acupuncture facial immediately before a big event without worrying about side-effects.  The only thing you'll notice is how great you look and feel!

2. Flow With The Seasons

Fall brings a change in weather - dry winds, cold outdoor weather, and warm indoor heating are a major departure from the days of summer. This transition in weather means you also need a different approach to skincare.  Skin is often drier and more prone flakiness as we head into fall - and dry skin will often show signs of aging, especially around the eyes and mouth. Boost your skin's hydration by adding a few drops of rose hip oil to your favorite facial moisturizer and apply to damp skin.  Facial mists work well to give skin a hydration boost throughout the day - make your own mist by combining distilled water, rosewater, and several drops of evening primrose oil in a spray bottle. Shake well and mist over face throughout the day.

3. Keep It Protected

Just because the weather may not be as warm during the fall doesn't mean the rays of the sun are less intense. In fact, up to 80% of UVA rays - the type which cause premature skin aging - can penetrate clouds thereby exposing your skin to damaging UV rays.  "Always wear sunscreen" is my motto for a reason - the fall season is no exception. UV exposure can further dehydrate skin, which is a recipe for disaster in the fall (see #2 above). Besides, no one wants to show up to a holiday party with parched, chapped, and burned skin. So, keep your sunscreen handy - use at least SPF 30 and ensure your sunscreen provides both UVA and UVB protection.