Our Summer-to-Fall Beauty Switch-Up

There’s a shift in the air, one that has whiffs of crisp leaves, cozy sweaters and carved pumpkins, and frankly, we can’t wait to sink our teeth into this season. But before we get too far into fall mentally, emotionally, spiritually, we have to make sure we’re bringing out self-care routines along for the journey.

With the crisper air and softer light, those effortless, salt-sprayed beach waves you rocked all summer start to feel like a distant memory. You swap your barely-there skin tints for something with a bit more intention. And maybe you’re adding an extra layer (or two) to your moisturizing routine.

Just like you switch up your wardrobe as the weather changes (oh, you’ve also had sweaters ready to go since early August because you’re dressing for the weather you want, not the weather you have), your transitional skincare and makeup deserve a little seasonal love. Our goal here isn’t a total overhaul but rather a series of small, thoughtful tweaks that cater to the changing need of your skin. It’s all about leaning into cozier textures, richer hues and extra hydration. So grab your seasonal latte and read on for how to get started on a new fall skincare routine.

That sun-kissed, glowy look we loved in July can look a little (how do we put this nicely?)...damp, come October. Humidity is dropping and skin craves more moisture and just a bit more coverage. That doesn’t mean we’re done with SPF. (WE ARE NEVER DONE WITH SPF!!!!) But for a double dose of hydration and protection, consider Le Prunier Plumscreen® SPF 31, which is packed with antioxidants and offers Broad Spectrum Protection from UVA/UVB/HEV rays. Or if you prefer a hint of color, try RMS Beauty SunCoverup Super Tint SPF 50 Sunscreen in Cameo which is both extremely effective at protecting your skin and evening it out with a beautiful, lightweight formula full of squalane and a proprietary herbal blend.

If you like even more coverage and your warm weather skin tint isn’t cutting it anymore, look for a formula that provides a flawless finish and skincare benefits. The Erez Perez Oat Milk Foundation in Vienna is a dream for skin that’s feeling a little parched post-summer. Hero ingredient oat milk is known for its ability to soothe and hydrate, meaning this foundation is built to calm and even out. For areas that need a little extra love (read: lingering sun spots, dark circles from staying up late for one last beach bonfire…or three extra hours of reality tv), the >Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer is a game-changer: it’s packed with caffeine and hyaluronic acid to brighten and plump while concealing.

Summer is all about high-beam dewiness; fall is all about making your face look like you’re sitting behind an ultra-flattering, warmly-glowing candle. Read: we’re shifting to a more subtle, lit-from-within glow. To rein in your base without sacrificing radiance, a super-fine powder is key. The RMS Beauty Hydra Setting Powder in Medium is perfect for this: it’s infused with hydrating, water-soluble plant actives that allows the powder to simultaneously blur pores and moisturize without any chalkiness.

For highlighter, swap glittery powders for creamy formulas that melt into the skin for a glow that looks like it’s actually coming from, you know, you. Feeling a warm, pearlescent sheen? It doesn’t get more iconic or foolproof than RMS Beauty’s Magic Luminizer. More of a soft, ethereal glow kinda face? The Rituel de Fille Rare Light Crème Luminizer in Phosphene manages to be subtle and transformative at the same time.

…in terms of your color palette. Fall is the ideal time to play around with richer, earthier tones. Think terracotta, warm berries, dusty mauves over bright pinks and orange-hued reds. One easy way to transition your look with color is switching up your blush. Jillian Dempsey’s Cheek Tint in Bloom gives a gorgeous, natural-looking pop of color, while the Erez Perez Carrot Colour Pots in Hol is a beautiful, buildable terracotta shade that doubles as a lip stain. Both are cream blushes which means: hydrating!

Last but not least, our lips really take the brunt of seasonal changes more often than not. Chilly air and artificial heat can lead to dry, chapped lips so something nourishing is a must for cold weather skincare. Coola’s Hydrating Lip Oil is perfect for a sheer wash of color with a side of heavy hydration thanks to its blend of camellia and jojoba oils. If you need something that packs a stronger punch, load up on the ESW Beauty Lip Treatment overnight: the nourishing avocado oil is ideal for pout that stays soft and nourished until the daffodils come back.

Now go tear into that Halloween candy you’re stashing somewhere secret because you “wanted to get ahead of it and be prepared”...you’ve earned it.