Fall for a New Look
Photo: Yunhee Kim
You may not think your cosmetics contain wheat-based ingredients, but many do. While that's fine for most, for those who suffer from celiac disease, even a small amount is problematic. These products, perfect for fall, are in the clear.
The founder of Naturopathica -- and author of "Pure Skin: Organic Beauty Basics" -- gives expert advice on changing your skin-care routine for fall.
"During the summer, people pile on products and sunscreen, so by fall your skin is usually ready for a detox. Over the past few months, you've been exposed to ultraviolet light, which is drying and triggers an inflammatory response in the skin. As we move into fall, it's important to hydrate and to restore. Everything in nature turns inward at this time -- the trees lose their leaves, animals gather food, and we move indoors, making it a natural time to rebuild the skin.
The first step is exfoliation, to slough off that dull layer of skin cells and even out skin tone. I like fruit enzyme masks applied in a warm shower because the steam helps them penetrate. After removing the mask, apply a rich moisturizer. Look for an active ingredient that treats whatever skin issue you're trying to combat -- dryness (hyaluronic acid), pigmentation (licorice root), or irritation (oat beta-glucan)."
A nice bath is the perfect antidote to fall's chill. To keep your skin soft, use gentle products, and don't spend too long in the tub. "Hot soaks are incredibly relaxing but can also be drying," says Ranella Hirsch, M.D., a dermatologist based in Boston.
Whether you buy bath salts in the store or use our make-your-own recipe, keep your steep to 10 minutes or less.
Beauty pros and skin-care specialists are all abuzz about carrier oils -- skin-lubricating natural oil, cold-pressed from seeds. When they're scented with an essential oil or dried herb, they carry the properties of that ingredient to your skin. Alone, these skin softeners can be used all over the body to lock in moisture.
Sunflower: Contains vitamin E and has a light, nonsticky feel.
Grapeseed: Perfect for oily skin because it's not greasy.
Olive: Best for dry, itchy skin.
An old facialists' trick: To depuff under the eyes, apply pressure to the sides of the nose. Now L'Oreal Collagen Micro-Pulse Eye one-ups the technique with a vibrating wand that massages eye cream for the same effect.
For a fall lip color that's bright but not garish, look outside; seasonal berries offer the freshest range of reds. "Nature does color perfectly," says Jessa Blades, an organic makeup artist based in New York City. To find the right red for you, swipe a bunch of shades on the back of your hand to find the most flattering color.
"It's not until you see how it complements your skin that you'll know your perfect match," explains Blades. If a bold, red lip is too much for you, dab on lipstick with your finger to get the precise amount of color you want. To keep your look subtle, try a sheer blush and a simple neutral shadow. "The natural world is all about balance -- that also applies to makeup."
Start Over
Visit other Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia sites:
© 2012 Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. All rights reserved.
Be the first to comment.