Late Summer Skin: Easing Into Fall with Simple, Nourishing Care
Late summer is one of those weird in-between times. The sun is still strong, the air’s still thick, but you can feel the shift coming. And so can your skin.
After five years working as a holistic esthetician, I saw it every August: skin that’s just... tired. It’s had a few too many pool days, a little too much sun, and maybe not enough rest. You might notice more dryness, irritation, or dullness than usual. That’s totally normal.
This time of year, your skin doesn’t need a whole new routine. It just needs some thoughtful care to help it transition gently into the cooler months ahead.
Here’s what I recommend:
Hydrate More Deeply (It’s Not Just About Moisturizer)
The first thing I like to ask when someone tells me their skin feels dry?
“How much water have you had today?”
Internal hydration plays a big role in how your skin behaves. Around this time of year, it’s great to sip herbal drinks that gently support hydration and minerals — like nettle, lemon balm, or hibiscus. They're simple, nourishing, and easy to work into your daily rhythm.
Small habit shift: Start your morning with a warm cup of herbal tea and keep a full water bottle nearby throughout the day.
Meadow Glow, Foraged Grace, & Harmony Facial Balms
Switch to Balms (Your Skin Wants More Comfort)
Lighter lotions work great for summer mornings, but as we move toward fall, I recommend switching to balms — especially at night.
Our Foraged Grace Facial Balm is a customer favorite especially this time of year. It’s made with herbs like elderflower and goldenrod that support skin that’s seen a lot of sun. If your skin is oily or blemish-prone, Harmony Facial Balm is a great gentle option. For all skin types and to support healthy, glowing skin, Meadow Glow Facial Balm is our go-to.
Use a small amount after cleansing, then just warm it between your fingertips and gently press it into your skin. Let it soak in and nourish while you wind down for the night.
Exfoliate Gently
If your skin is feeling a little rough or dull, it might be time for a gentle exfoliation (but go easy here!) No scrubs, no harsh acids.
Instead, try:
– A soft muslin cloth during cleansing
– A weekly raw honey mask (honey is a natural humectant and mild exfoliant)
– A short herbal steam to loosen buildup
This helps clear away dry skin without stripping the barrier — something you definitely want to protect as the air starts to cool.
Rosemary Mint Whipped Tallow Butter
Don’t Forget the Body
We often focus so much on the face that we forget the rest of our skin (especially the arms, legs, and chest) has been just as exposed.
In the fall, I love using our Cinnamon Grove Tallow Butter on damp skin after a shower. It’s rich, grounding, and deeply moisturizing. If your skin feels hot, red, or irritated, our Rosemary Mint Body Butter (with peppermint and rosemary) can help cool things down.
Build a Bridge, Not a New Routine
You don’t need to toss your summer skincare and start fresh. Think of this time as a bridge — just small shifts to support what your skin is already doing naturally.
It’s slowing down. So let your routine slow down too.
More hydration. Thicker balms. A little less exfoliation.
Simple, steady, and supportive.
A Few Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be perfect with your skincare, you just need to be present.
Listen to your skin. Notice what’s changing. And if something feels off, adjust gently.
After years working with skin, I’ve come to believe that the more we tune in instead of fix, the better our skin responds. Your skin doesn’t need ‘fixing’ — it needs kindness, patience, and a little nourishment as the season shifts.
With love,
Sydney
Prairie-rooted skin guide | Holistic esthetics-trained | Faith-led skincare formulator
