Your Fall Beauty Timeline: When Should You Actually Book?

Fall calendars fill up quickly with weddings, photos, homecoming, trips and eventually holiday events. But one thing people don't always think about is when to schedule their beauty appointments.

Some services are better a few days before an event—not the morning of.

If You Have Photos Coming Up

Avoid experimenting with brand-new skincare immediately before an important photoshoot. Even products that are great for your skin can occasionally cause temporary dryness, irritation or purging when first introduced.

If you're planning a facial, giving your skin some breathing room before an important event is usually a better idea than trying to squeeze everything into the day before.

Brows can also be refreshed ahead of time, especially if your skin tends to remain pink after waxing.

If You're Getting a Spray Tan

Your spray tan shouldn't be the last thing you squeeze in before getting dressed.

You'll need time for the tan to develop and for your first rinse. Exfoliation, shaving and other hair removal should also happen before your tanning appointment, rather than afterward when they can affect your new tan.

For weddings, trips and photos, planning the timing ahead can make the entire process much easier.

If You're Having Your Makeup Done

Arrive with clean skin unless your makeup artist tells you otherwise, and avoid trying aggressive new skincare treatments immediately beforehand.

For brides, a trial is also about more than choosing eyeshadow. It's an opportunity to see how the overall look photographs, how it wears and whether you'd like anything adjusted before wedding day.

A Little Planning Goes a Long Way

Beauty prep shouldn't feel stressful. Knowing what to do—and when to do it— can help you avoid last-minute decisions and give each service time to do what it's supposed to do.