I'm implementing 5 strategic beauty swaps for fall—here’s each one of them (some are even discounted).

      (Image credit: Vault Stock) As a beauty editor, I naturally adjust my routine with the changing seasons. During winter, I utilize the best skincare products suited for cold weather, which includes body care. In spring, I transition from heavier products and fuller-coverage makeup to lighter, sheer alternatives. Summer brings an emphasis on ultra-lightweight, gel-based skincare. As fall approaches, I revisit my routine, making small changes to accommodate the season—specifically, adding more moisture, trying new seasonal makeup shades, and incorporating correction-focused skin treatments. Below are the smart fall beauty changes I'm currently implementing.

      Out: Skipping Retinol

      In: Using Retinol 3x Per Week

      SkinCeuticals

      Retinol 1.0 Maximum Strength Refining Night Cream

      I have been regularly using retinol serums for nearly three years, but I paused this summer for two reasons. First, I simplified my skincare regimen due to some bothersome rosacea flare-ups, leading to the exclusion of retinol. Secondly, since retinol increases cell turnover, it makes the skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Even with careful sunscreen application, I didn't want to take any chances given my extensive beach time.

      Now that my beach days are behind me and I've had less sun exposure, I’m ready to reintroduce retinol into my routine. I want to reap its remarkable anti-aging benefits and perhaps diminish some post-summer sun damage as well. Dermatologists typically advise a gradual approach, suggesting starting with once or twice a week at night and increasing frequency from there. I plan to begin with twice weekly and aim to return to my usual three times a week by mid-to-late fall. I’ll use a pea-sized amount for my entire face, applying it to dry skin, allowing it to absorb for a few minutes, and then following up with moisturizer, which is the best method for minimizing irritation, dryness, and redness.

      I trust only a few retinol serums, and Skinceuticals' Retinol 1.0 Maximum Strength Refining Night Cream ($102) is one of them. Though it's pricey, it's high-quality and lasts a long time. My last tube lasted about a year, and I noticed quick improvements in my skin.

      Out: Lightweight, Gel Moisturizers

      In: Thicker, Occlusive Moisturizers

      Avène

      Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

      Many believe that skin becomes dry in fall due to falling temperatures, which is true but only part of the equation. Changes in humidity also contribute. In fall, the air contains less moisture, making skin susceptible to Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL)—the loss of moisture as it evaporates into the air. This phenomenon is also why skin can feel dry after long flights, but I digress. To combat TEWL, it's advisable to replace lightweight gel moisturizers with thicker, richer, more occlusive options. This varies depending on your skin type (those prone to acne should avoid overly rich formulas), but it’s a good guideline. Personally, I prefer mid-weight moisturizers during the day and thick, occlusive ones at night, functioning almost like an overnight mask.

      The Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream is a standout choice recommended by dermatologists. It’s extremely gentle and effectively locks in moisture to combat TEWL. In fall, I apply a generous layer at night and wake up with soft, smooth, illuminated skin.

      SHARK

      Speedstyle Pro Flex Professional Performance High-Velocity Hair Dryer System

      I recently wrote a 3000-word article on hair damage caused by summer, prompting me to reevaluate my haircare routine, which, unsurprisingly, needed improvement. After dealing with damage caused by chemical treatments, heat styling, and tight hairstyles, I sought a solution. One simple fix is swapping my high-heat styling tools for those utilizing high-velocity air-drying technology, such as Shark's Speedstyle Pro Flex Professional Performance High-Velocity Hair Dryer System. It’s gentle on hair while effectively styling it with four unique attachments.

      Out: Over-Reliance on Mascara and Brow Gel

      In: Using Lash and Brow Serums

      GRANDE Cosmetics

      Grandelash and Grandebrow Travel Duo

      While I’ve been embracing the no-mascara trend lately, I haven’t completely given it up. Due to various work events and summer weddings, I've occasionally used waterproof products. Unfortunately, the removal process is brutal on my natural lashes. Despite my gentle approach, I inevitably lose a few lashes. Hence, I want to invest in a solid lash serum to promote natural, fluttery length.

      The same applies to my brows. After a summer filled with brow products like pencils, pomades, and gels, I want to return to nurturing real growth and density. That's where Grande Cosmetics' Grandelash and Grandebrow Travel Duo ($74) comes into