We have spring cleaning so why not the equivalent in the fall?
I usually prescribe a beauty makeover earlier in the fall, at summer's end. But since that's later and later these days, the beginning of November is an ideal time. It's before the holidays take over all our time, but after Halloween – in case we've indulged in too much candy. (Oops.)
If you're anything like me, self-pampering is tough. I always feel like I should be doing something more worthwhile (did you know Nov. 1 was "Give Up Your Shoulds Day?)
But the other day at Christie & Co. Salon & Spa in Bayside, Queens, I realized something – maybe it shouldn't be called pampering, which denotes excessive indulgence. Maybe it should be called basic maintenance.
When I arrived, I was late (as usual; this time I'd gotten lost). Since the facialist was busy with her next appointment, they treated me to a manicure/pedicure. I had taken all my polish off in September to give my nails a breather (very important to do every few months!), but the few days I'd intended turned into several weeks.
When I looked at my neatly polished fingers and toes, I felt like I was looking at someone else – someone calm, cool and collected, someone who takes the time to be presentable.
Fall Into Beauty
Next up: Repêchage's signature 4-layer facial with a hand treatment, and new hair treatment mask to repair summer damaged hair and stressed out skin in just 30 minutes!
The hair mask goes on first, a thick seaweed goop with amino acids, marine actives, vitamins and trace elements and minerals that work to repair and strengthen damaged and chemically treated hair and help protect it from further damage.
While it was working, I was glided into a quiet room where thick slabs of cool cream were applied to my cheeks, chin, forehead and hands. I didn't know what they were doing but the heaviness and consistency alone had an instant relaxing effect.
The Repêchage 4-layer facial included a serum to soften lines, a massage to improve circulation and skin elasticity ( and disappear your double chin!), then a double whammy of mineral and seaweed mask to completely relax and refresh skin.
After a blissful rest, I went back to get the hair mask rinsed away.
Everyone was so nice, I wanted to cry – partially a much-needed release of stress. On top of that, my skin was cool and glowing and my hair was sleek and smooth. A week later it's still not frizzy and my skin feels soft and fresh.
But bigger than that, taking care of yourself in this way helps you get back to your daily responsibilities with a refreshed attitude. That old Billy Crystal character is right, when you look "mahvelous" you feel a little more marvelous. Remember: Stress is the biggest age accelerator next to sun
It's akin to cleaning your house and putting fresh flowers it — we do that without feeling guilty about it, in fact view it as …basic maintenance!
Makeover Tips
The next step: Internal beautifying – a juice cleanse to get out the toxins (which helps clear skin, too!), especially before the onslaught of the holidays.
If you really can't get to a salon or spa, you can get many of these products for home use. I've kept the repair going by distressing with Repêchage's eye pads and rejuvenating spray. And after a shower, I slather myself with body butter before bed to keep the self-care going.
Free & Cheap
Take the time and do whatever you can afford to give yourself a fall overhaul. Use products you already have at home. Remember, you can get free makeovers at many department store beauty counters! It will give you energy and confidence. You deserve that.
More ways to keep up basic maintenance:
- What to do with leftover makeup
- Beauty: It's like Buttah…It is Butter!
- Post Halloween Beauty
- How To Look Better Without Makeup
