As the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. Fall brings cozy sweaters, crisp air, and pumpkin spice everything, but it also means drier skin, more layers of clothing, and potential irritation if you’re not taking care of your skin properly after waxing. Since I specialize in both waxing at Waxi Taxi and facials at Ultimate Salon in Highland, I get to see firsthand how seasonal changes affect the skin. Here are my best tips for keeping your skin healthy, smooth, and glowing this fall!
1. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Cooler temperatures and dry indoor heat can zap the skin of hydration. After waxing, your skin is more vulnerable and needs extra nourishment. Choose a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or body lotion to keep your skin soft and reduce irritation. Be sure to wait at least 48 hours post-wax before applying.
For the face, consider a richer cream or hydrating serum to lock in moisture. Another great switch in the fall months is moving from a foaming cleanser to a creamy cleanser. Creamy cleansers help maintain hydration and prevent that tight, dry feeling many people notice when the air gets colder.
2. Plan Your Outfit After Waxing
In the fall and winter months, we tend to wear more layers. Think leggings, tights, and fitted sweaters. While cozy, these materials can trap heat and sweat against freshly waxed skin, leading to irritation or ingrown hairs. Try planning ahead and wear looser, breathable clothing to your appointment. You’ll stay warm while giving your skin a chance to recover comfortably.
3. Exfoliate Regularly (But Gently)
Exfoliation is key to preventing ingrown hairs and keeping skin smooth after waxing. In the cooler months, aim to exfoliate 2–3 times per week with a gentle scrub, mitt, or chemical exfoliant formulated for sensitive skin. Just avoid exfoliating the first 48 hours after a wax to let your skin heal.
Remember, exfoliation isn’t just for freshly waxed areas; it’s important all over the body. Regular exfoliation helps with natural cell turnover, prevents dullness, and keeps your skin soft. This is especially important for the face, where dry, dead skin cells build up more quickly in colder weather.
4. Don’t Skip SPF
It may feel like sunscreen is only for summer, but UV rays are present year-round. If you’re addressing concerns like dryness, fine lines, or sun damage, daily SPF is your #1 defense. Especially after waxing, your skin can be more sensitive to sunlight, making SPF even more important.
SPF is also your ultimate anti-aging BFF. Studies show that 90% of visible signs of aging (wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots) are caused by the sun. Even when the sun isn’t shining, UV rays still penetrate clouds and windows. So yes, you need SPF every single day, all year long.
5. Lock in Moisture Overnight
During the drier fall and winter months, applying an occlusive like Aquaphor or Cicaplast to your face, lips, and cuticles once a week before bed can make a huge difference. Occlusives help reduce water loss overnight, creating a protective barrier while your skin repairs itself. This simple step boosts hydration, supports your skin barrier, and leaves you feeling soft and restored by morning.
See You Soon!
At-home care is important, but pairing it with professional treatments takes your results to the next level. Fall is the perfect time to start addressing summer sun damage and prep your skin for the colder months ahead. Combining waxing with a good skincare routine (and a facial here and there) will keep your skin healthy and glowing all season long!
Written by Tara Vode
