– by Alana Delcourt, Licensed Esthetician; Certified Oncology Esthetician; Natural Holistic Nutritionist; Owner, Fresh Esthetics Studio –
While the summer has been fabulous, I love fall because I can focus on healthy skin, undoing damage the sun and summer may have caused. I’m often quoted saying “If you play you pay” – meaning it’s time to take care of your skin this fall! Face it: it’s difficult to avoid the effects of summer on your skin. Even for the most diligent sunscreen user, sun damage is hard to stave off. Not to mention, sunscreen can clog your pores, and chlorine and saltwater take their toll. This means that fall is the time to exfoliate and moisturize. The obvious risks of skin cancers aside, sun exposure and the environment exacerbate aging, causing:
• Coarse wrinkles and fine lines
• Dull dry skin
• Discolouring and mottled complexion
Like everything, I like to approach Fall Skin Care holistically, taking care of the inside as well as the outside.
Protect Your Outer Layer: Exfoliate to repair & rejuvenate your skin
A professional skincare treatment like a Corrective Facial can stimulate your skin back to its glowing and healthy self. Exfoliation will introduce oxygen, improve barrier function and maintain healthy, smooth skin. Another option is an Enzymatic Pumpkin Peel; it’s the perfect fall enzyme treatment. Full of antioxidants, it is results orientated and can be gentle for most skin types. Enzymatic treatments are effective and quicker at removing the superficial dead layer of skin. These exfoliation treatments should only be performed by a professional.
Change your skin care like your wardrobe
Just as you wouldn’t wear a tank top and flip-flops in cold weather, don’t use your light-weight summer skin care products as the temperature drops. Introduce more nourishing daily products for the face and body. I recommend a Hydrating Serum or a Facial Oil, both of which are reparative and concentrated with active ingredients.
Healthy Skin Starts from Within: When life gives you lemons
In addition to modifying your skin care rituals, it’s crucial to take care of yourself from within. In the fall and winter, the air can suck moisture from the skin, so staying hydrated helps keep skin beautiful. We all know we need to drink water … but how about lemon water? Morning lemon juice is an oldie but a goodie to kick-start digestion and cleanse the system. Squeeze half a lemon in a cup of hot water and drink before breakfast.
Make it smooth
This skin-saving smoothie is loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. You and your skin will love the results!
The Green Beautifier
Mix in a blender: 1 cup arugula, 1 large banana, 1 cup mango (frozen or fresh), 1 teaspoon spirulina. Add water (can be coconut) or nut milk (almond or macadamia) until it reaches a creamy consistency. Enjoy!
