Fall Glow Boosters: Simple Tips for Brighter Skin This Season

Fall only just arrived a few days ago, but the moment I catch that first crisp whiff in the air, I know it’s time for a reset. After months of long summer days, late nights, and plenty of sunshine, my skin (and honestly, my whole routine) craves something different.

Fall is a season that asks for reflection and intention, and I love leaning into that with my skincare routine. It’s my signal to slow down, shift my habits, and give my skin the thoughtful care it needs for the cooler months ahead.

Before coffee, before checking my phone, I always head straight to the sink. And you’d think skincare comes first, right?

Nope.

I actually brush my teeth first, and here’s why: I used to do my skincare routine first—cleanse, moisturize, lip balm—but then I’d brush my teeth and it felt like I’d undone everything I just did.

Brushing your teeth is messy—we get toothpaste on the corners of our mouths, and when we rinse, a little water inevitably hits our skin. And then that serum I carefully pressed in? Poof—vanished. The moisturizer around my mouth? Like it never existed. And the lip balm? Say goodbye.

It’s a little frustrating, honestly—spending a few minutes caring for your skin, only to feel it vanish in an instant. So, from one skincare enthusiast to another: brush your teeth before your skincare routine.

I start with a splash of cool water—never ice-cold, just enough to wake me up and shake off the last traces of sleep. There’s something so refreshing about it, like my skin is taking a deep breath alongside me.

Cleanse

Once my face is lightly damp, I reach for my Vitamin C Cleansing Water.

So I grab my cleanser and a cotton pad, and wipe away whatever built up overnight. Then, rinse with lukewarm water.

And here’s another lesson I’ve learned the hard way: never rub your skin.

For years, I used to vigorously towel off my face, thinking it made my skin cleaner. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.

Now?

I gently pat my skin dry, and it makes a world of difference—my skin stays calm, smooth, and happy, and I avoid those tiny little red marks or irritation that rubbing used to leave behind.

Press

Once my skin is dry, it’s time for my Vitamin C Serum.

I take just a few drops and press it into my cheeks, forehead, and jaw, letting it sink in while I take a slow breath. I love that moment—my skin feels nourished, my mind feels calm, and I can literally feel the start of my day settle into place.

Smooth

Next comes the Vitamin C Face Cream.

I dab a few small dots of cream across my forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin, then gently smooth them into my skin.

Swipe

Then, I swipe on a touch of lip balm. It’s such a small step, but it makes a huge difference—keeping my lips soft while the air gets crisper.

Protect

Finally, I apply my SPF. Just a pea-sized amount for my face and neck is enough to shield my skin from harmful UV rays. I gently pat it in, making sure to cover all the exposed areas—even the tops of my ears if they peek out.

Five minutes, a few simple products, and suddenly I feel grounded, nourished, and ready to take on the day.

It’s amazing what a little intentional care can do, especially as the leaves start to change.

My Vitamin C Essentials — for morning glow and all-season radiance

Here are the products I use in the order I use them. Each one layers beautifully to brighten, protect, and hydrate.

Tip: layer from thinnest to richest—Cleansing Water → Serum → Face Cream → SPF.