beauticianizabelal@gmail.com
beauticianizabelal@gmail.com
Izabela Lemanska
Autumn has its unique atmosphere. And although it can be beautiful, full of colors, the scent of wet leaves, and calmer evenings, many of us feel a drop in energy and mood during this time of year.
So maybe it's worth looking at autumn a little differently?
Instead of treating it solely as the beginning of cooler and darker months, let's see it as an invitation to reset and an investment in the beautiful appearance of our skin.
In this article, I want to explain to you why autumn is the ideal season for intensive skincare and what procedures are worth considering to restore the skin's glow and prepare it for the challenges of winter.
The main reason specialists consider autumn to be the perfect time for cosmetic treatments is the significant reduction in exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Many advanced therapies, such as chemical peels or laser therapy, intentionally disrupt the epidermal barrier to stimulate the skin's deep remodeling. The skin during the recovery period becomes extremely sensitive to the sun, and excess exposure could lead to difficult-to-remove post-inflammatory discolorations.
The autumn atmosphere minimizes this risk, allowing for the safe execution of even very intensive procedures. A more stable, lower temperature also favors a gentler healing process, reducing swelling and redness. That is why professional treatments in autumn yield the best and safest results, allowing the skin to regenerate calmly without the fear of negative effects from sun exposure.
Less exposure to intense sunlight also facilitates planning many professional therapies. However, this does not mean that every treatment will be suitable for every skin type. The choice should take into account the skin's condition, phototype, predisposition to discoloration, and current sun exposure.
Summer is a time when the skin is exposed to many harmful factors: intense sun, salty water, wind, or air conditioning. The result can be discoloration, dryness, loss of firmness, and the accumulation of dead skin cells,
which makes the complexion appear gray and dull. Autumn is an excellent time to address these issues and restore balance and a healthy appearance to the skin.
Regenerative treatments focus on several key aspects. First, on exfoliating the thickened epidermis,
which instantly improves the color and texture of the skin and facilitates the penetration of active ingredients. Second, on combating
hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure. Third, on intense hydration and nourishment of the deeper layers of the skin, aimed at rebuilding the damaged hydrolipid barrier and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.
The autumn period is not only a time to repair summer damage but also a strategic preparation of the skin for the harsh winter conditions. Low temperatures outside, freezing winds, and dry, heated air indoors pose a significant challenge for our complexion. They lead to rapid water loss from the epidermis, irritations, redness, and weakened defensive functions, which is the natural protective layer on the skin's surface, the barrier, the hydrolipid mantle. It consists of lipids such as ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, as well as components present in the skin's natural moisturizing factor. A strong barrier effectively prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)* and protects against the negative effects of external factors, which is crucial for maintaining comfort and a healthy appearance of the complexion during the winter months.
When the barrier is weakened, the skin loses water more easily. There may be a feeling of tightness, dryness, roughness, redness, burning, or increased reactivity to cosmetics. The skin may also tolerate intensive treatments worse.
Properly selected treatments can significantly strengthen its resilience.
And just autumn months, this is a great time not to wait until winter when the skin begins to react with discomfort, but to act earlier and strengthen its natural protective mechanisms.
Depending on its condition, one can consider among others:
intensive moisturizing treatments,
regenerative and nourishing therapies,
treatments supporting the hydrolipid barrier,
gentle enzymatic peels or appropriately selected chemical peels,
treatments using soothing and regenerating ingredients,
therapies utilizing hyaluronic acid, amino acids, peptides or antioxidants.
In the case of weakened, very dry, or reactive skin, strong exfoliation or intensive device therapy may not always be the best solution. Sometimes the most sensible step is to first restore comfort and proper skin functions, and only later resort to more intensive procedures.
Autumn care does not have to mean one specific procedure. The most important thing is to tailor the therapy to what the skin actually needs. Let's remember that it is the beautician, cosmetologist, or aesthetic medicine doctor who qualifies for the treatment, of course taking into account the client's expectations, but above all considering the condition and needs of the skin.
MICRODERMABRASION, then when the skin needs refreshing.
Microdermabrasion involves the mechanical exfoliation of the superficial layer of the stratum corneum. As a result, the skin can become smoother, more uniform, and better prepared for further care.
The treatment can be helpful for rough skin, uneven texture, dull complexion, superficial imperfections, and excessive keratinization.
In the case of mature skin, it is especially important to appropriately select the intensity of the treatment. Stronger does not always mean better.
PEELS AND PROFESSIONAL EXFOLIATING TREATMENTS
Autumn also favors therapies utilizing professional peels.
Properly selected exfoliation can improve smoothness, complexion, and skin texture, as well as restore its freshness and glow.
Depending on the substance used and its concentration, the treatment can have varying intensity.
However, the goal should not be just to exfoliate the skin, but to stimulate the skin to renew while maintaining its protective barrier.
LASER THERAPY, autumn as a good time for therapy.
In autumn, many women begin to show interest in laser therapy, especially in the context of discolorations, photoaging, uneven skin texture, or visible blood vessels.
Depending on the technology used, the laser can affect specific skin structures and induce a controlled remodeling process. It's worth remembering that laser therapy is not one specific treatment. Different devices have different indications, contraindications, and recommendations regarding skin preparation and care.
Therefore, therapy should always be preceded by a consultation and skin assessment by a specialist.
MICRONEEDLING,natural skin stimulation.
Microneedling utilizes controlled skin stimulation, activating natural repair processes.
The therapy can support the improvement of firmness and elasticity, skin texture, the appearance of fine wrinkles, unevenness, and acne scars. The effects appear gradually, as the skin needs time to remodel.
MICRO-NEEDLING RADIOFREQUENCY, for improving firmness.
Micro-needling radiofrequency combines microneedling with RF energy action. The goal of the therapy is controlled stimulation of tissues and activation of skin remodeling processes.
Depending on its condition, the treatment can support the improvement of tension, firmness, structure, and the appearance of the facial contour.
This is also a therapy whose effects develop over time.
REGENERATIVE AND MOISTURIZING TREATMENTS
Not every skin needs intensive stimulation in autumn.
After summer, it may be dehydrated, dry, and more reactive. In such a situation, a regenerative, moisturizing therapy supporting the hydrolipid barrier may be a better choice.
Well-moisturized skin is smoother, more elastic, and looks more rested.
THERAPIES FOCUSED ON DISCOLORATIONS
After summer, we often notice that discolorations have become more visible. Depending on their type, one can consider appropriately selected peels, device treatments, or in certain cases, laser therapy.
However, it is crucial to correctly diagnose the problem. Not every pigmentation change should undergo cosmetic treatments.
For new, changing, or concerning skin changes, the first step should be a dermatological consultation.
TEWL - an abbreviation that stands for Transepidermal Water Loss, translated into Polish as Transepidermalna Utrata Wody, is a natural process involving the spontaneous evaporation of water from the body through the epidermis into the atmosphere. The level of TEWL is a key indicator of the condition of the hydrolipid barrier. Low TEWL, normal or low TEWL indicates less water loss through the epidermis, a tighter hydrolipid barrier that effectively retains moisture within the skin. High TEWL indicates
damage to the barrier, for example, from overly aggressive cleansing or acids, leading to rapid dryness, roughness
and irritation.
Can you check your TEWL?
Yes. In some cosmetology offices, you can perform a specialized measurement using a tewameter (evaporimeter). The test is quick and non-invasive, and its result allows for a better assessment of the condition of the skin's protective barrier and the appropriate selection of care or treatment. At home, you cannot reliably measure TEWL without specialized equipment, but feelings of tightness, roughness, peeling, or hypersensitivity can be signals that the skin barrier needs more support.
DO I STILL NEED TO USE SPF CREAM AFTER AUTUMN TREATMENTS?
Yes, it is absolutely necessary. The skin after intensive treatments is more sensitive to UV radiation, which is present all year round, regardless of the weather. Using a cream with a high filter (SPF 30-50) is crucial for protection against discoloration and ensuring proper regeneration.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS IN A SERIES ARE NEEDED TO SEE RESULTS?
The number of treatments depends on the type of therapy, skin problem, and individual predispositions. Usually, to achieve optimal results, it is recommended to perform a series of 3 to 6 treatments at specific intervals set by the cosmetologist or doctor.
ARE AUTUMN TREATMENTS PAINFUL?
The level of discomfort varies depending on the treatment. Many procedures, such as microdermabrasion, are painless. Others, like peels with higher concentrations or mesotherapy, may cause slight burning or a prickling sensation, but specialists use soothing products to minimize these feelings.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR INTENSIVE AUTUMN TREATMENTS?
The most common contraindications include active viral infections (e.g., herpes) and bacterial infections at the treatment site, certain skin diseases (e.g., psoriasis in the active phase), pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as taking certain medications (e.g., oral retinoids).
CAN I COMBINE DIFFERENT TYPES OF TREATMENTS IN AUTUMN?
Yes, moreover, combined therapies often yield the best results. An experienced specialist can create a personalized care plan that synergistically utilizes various methods, for example, combining chemical peels with mesotherapy to achieve a multi-level skin renewal effect.