As the air turns crisp and the leaves start their annual transformation, it’s time for your body care routine to get a fall upgrade. Cooler weather means drier air, which can leave our skin feeling rough, dehydrated, and not at its best. But don’t worry — a little prep can help you keep that soft, healthy glow from neck to toes as we head into sweater season. Here’s your guide to keeping your body happy and hydrated through fall.
1. Upgrade Your Moisturizer
It’s time to swap out your lightweight summer lotions for something more hydrating. The drop in humidity can make your skin thirstier than usual. Look for body creams or oils rich in ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, or ceramides, which help strengthen your skin’s barrier and lock in moisture. Apply generously after your shower to damp skin to trap that hydration right where it belongs.
2. Embrace Gentle Exfoliation
Fall is the perfect time to start a gentler exfoliation routine. Sloughing off dead skin cells helps your moisturizer absorb better, leaving your skin smoother and more radiant. But remember: less is more. Stick to exfoliating just 1-2 times a week and opt for scrubs with fine, gentle particles like sugar or oatmeal that won’t strip your skin.
3. Longer, Warmer Showers? Not So Fast!
We all love the comfort of a long, steamy shower when it’s chilly outside. Unfortunately, hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Instead, try to keep your showers warm (not hot) and a bit shorter. Bonus tip: adding a few drops of body oil to your bath or post-shower routine can help you feel extra pampered and seal in hydration.
4. Nourish from the Inside Out
Just as important as what you put on your skin is what you put in your body. The fall season is full of nutrient-rich foods that are great for your skin’s health, from pumpkin and sweet potatoes (hello, vitamin A!) to nuts and seeds packed with healthy fats. Staying hydrated also plays a huge role, so don’t forget to drink plenty of water, even if you’re not sweating as much as you did in summer.
5. Don’t Forget Your Hands and Feet
Our hands and feet tend to get forgotten, but they need love too! The skin on your hands is thin and more prone to dryness, especially with the colder air and extra hand washing. Keep a rich hand cream handy, and make it a habit to apply throughout the day. As for your feet, a nourishing foot cream and a good pair of cozy socks can work wonders overnight.
6. Layering Is Key — for Your Skin Too!
Just like you layer your clothes for fall, you can layer your skincare. Start with a hydrating body serum or lightweight lotion, then follow up with a heavier cream or oil to seal everything in. This helps protect your skin from the dry air and keeps it soft and supple all day long.
7. Create a Wellness Ritual
Fall is a great time to slow down and create some nurturing self-care rituals. Whether it’s setting aside time for a full-body scrub and moisturizing routine, lighting some candles, or indulging in an aromatherapy bath, these moments of intentional care go a long way for both body and mind. Wellness is about more than just what you put on your skin — it’s about how you treat your whole self.
Transitioning your skincare and wellness routine for fall is all about nurturing your body with a little extra TLC. From keeping your skin hydrated to embracing cozy, calming rituals, this season invites you to slow down and reconnect with yourself. Your skin will thank you for it — and you’ll be ready to fully enjoy all that fall has to offer.
What’s your favorite fall body care ritual?