Back-to-School Beauty: 5 Ways to Refresh Your Fall Beauty Routine

It doesn’t matter how long I’ve been out of school, there is something about the end of August and beginning of September that always puts a little spring in my step. As everyone gets ready for school, buying new notebooks, pens, and pencil cases, I too feel an urge to perfect my back to school look — even if the only class I’m going to is at the gym.
Whether you’re gearing up for a new school year — or just want to refresh your look for Fall, here are five ways I’m gearing up for a beautiful new school year.

Out with the old . . . Just as you switch over your wardrobe for Fall, you should switch out your makeup — and not only to get in on the latest trends. Rather, old makeup can be the prime place for bacteria to set up shop, making it essential to toss your mascara quarterly, replace your liquid makeup yearly, and clean your makeup brushes weekly.
In with the new . . . For some people it’s all about getting in on the latest Fall fashions; for me, it’s all about a fresh new makeup look. This Fall, dare to try a new lipstick (I’m loving red!), reevaluate your foundation shade for the perfect match (you’re likely more fair come Fall), and swap your bronzer for a youthful blush (try peach!). Want to go all out? Check out some fun new eye makeup colors like an aquamarine eyeliner or a purple shadow!
Calm, Correct + Conceal . . . Your new skin care concerns, that is! Whether stress is causing you to break out, the change in temperatures is leaving you with dry skin, or early morning wake-ups are leaving you with tired eyes, make sure you have all the right tools on hand. Look for an oil-free concealer for those pesky pimples. Upgrade your foundation to one that helps to hydrate and reverse Summer sun damage (like COVERGIRL + OLAY Tone Rehab 2-IN-1 Foundation). Make sure you have an under-eye concealer that helps to improve skin tone and luminosity over time. And you’re all set!
Chop, Chop . . . A new cut or change in color is the ultimate reset — kind of like hitting Ctrl+Alt+Del on your entire look. Consider a big chop by donating your hair to an organization that makes wigs for cancer patients (or just a trim) or give a new bold color a try (or just a few highlights) — even the most minimal change will make you feel like a million bucks.
Chill out . . . if you’re dreading the sound of an early alarm clock, toss two metal spoons in the freezer before bed. In the morning, spend two minutes with the cold spoons on your eyes to de-puff and brighten. Better yet, it gives you two minutes to think about the day ahead (or just to hit snooze!).