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    GLOW GUIDE

    Houston skincare experts share 8 essential tips for a healthy fall

    Gabi De la Rosa
    Nov 13, 2024 | 11:37 am
    woman putting facial lotion

    A change of seasons requires a shift in skincare products and treatments.

    Photo by Kaptured by Kelley

    As Houstonians trade tank tops and flip flops for boots and layers, changing the skincare routine to match the season can make a big difference in maintaining a radiant and healthy glow. Fall's cooler air may require extra hydration and additional protection from environmental stressors like pollution, sun exposure, and indoor heating or air-conditioning.

    "Transitioning from a summer to fall skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated," Christina Hartmann Jenkins, owner of Bare Necessities Spa & Boutique, tells CultureMap. "There are simple adjustments that can protect and rejuvenate your skin, ensuring a smooth, radiant look all season long."

    As we slowly roll into fall, we've rounded up skincare advice from some of Houston's most knowledgeable experts. They explain the best ways to take care of your skin this season with suggestions about the best treatments, products, and application tips.

    Dr. Helen Alvarez and Dr. Madeleine Gantz, Westlake Dermatology

    Switch from a gel or foam cleanser to a cream-based cleanser
    "Colder weather and indoor heating can dry out and sensitize our skin," explains Dr. Gantz, who recommends switching from a foaming or gel cleanser to something cream-based, which will be gentler. "Look for something that contains humectants, such as glycerin, that help to draw moisture into the skin. One nice option for this is Alastin Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream."

    Take advantage of peels and laser treatments
    Dr. Alvarez recommends taking advantage of spending more time indoors during cooler weather to address sun damage and refresh the skin's health. "Fall is the perfect season for chemical peels or laser treatments, because most people are spending less time in the sun and can dedicate the time for proper healing."

    Christina Hartmann Jenkins, licensed esthetician and owner of Bare Necessities Spa & Boutique

    Focus on hydration and repair with a facial
    According to Jenkins, the best cure for sun-damaged, dehydrated skin and clogged pores is a hydrating, nourishing facial. "The Bare Necessities Diamond Glow treatment preps skin for colder weather and restores its natural radiance," said Jenkins. "Clients typically see improvement in overall skin health, function, and appearance in skin tone and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles."

    Switch to a richer moisturizer and add a hydrating serum
    With the air becoming drier, Jenkins recommends swapping out a lightweight summer moisturizer for a richer, more emollient cream. "Eminence's Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer promotes skin elasticity. It is a rich moisturizer that will provide long-lasting hydration without clogging pores," said Jenkins. "Applying it daily will help lock in moisture, providing a protective barrier against dry, chilly winds." For those still dealing with dry skin, Jenkins says incorporating a hydrating serum, particularly one with hyaluronic acid like Rhonda Allison Hyaluronic Concentrate Serum, gives skin a deeper moisturizing boost.

    Randy Rakes, partner, Nuveau Plastic Surgery and Medical Aesthetics

    Continue with sunscreen – yes, even in the fall
    "Although UVB rays (responsible for sunburn) decrease in the fall, UVA rays (which penetrate deeper into the skin and cause aging) are present year-round." said Rakes. "Protecting your skin from UVA rays remains essential for long-term skin health and prevention of premature aging." He recommends Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36. "This tinted sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection and a hint of color, making it perfect for achieving an even, radiant complexion."

    Renew skin with gentle exfoliation
    Rakes says it is crucial to slough off dead skin cells present from sunscreen, sweat, and environmental pollutants without stripping skin of essential moisture. He recommends a two-prong approach with Alastin Skincare Gentle Cleanser to remove dirt and oil effectively. Rakes also suggests using Alastin Skincare ReSurface Skin Polish two to three times per week. "This will aid in removing dead skin cells and allow for better product absorption, and it prepares the skin to accept the hydrating and nourishing products necessary for fall."

    Andrea Simmons, founder of FaceForward Cosmetics

    Lock in moisture in an overnight mask
    Cooler months can often bring drier, duller complections, so Simmons suggests using an overnight mask to help moisturize the skin. "I recommend our lavender-infused Overnight Recovery Mask. It is a water-based treatment that works overnight. You'll wake up with skin that feels deeply replenished and hydrated," she tells CultureMap.

    Update makeup skills with a lesson
    The change of seasons means swapping out bright summer colors for richer, more muted tones of clothing and makeup. "Changing color palettes and textures also calls for updates in our makeup routines. I recommend a personalized makeup session tailored to fit each client's lifestyle and unique aesthetic," she said. "Feeling confident with your makeup application goes a long way in boosting confidence."

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    BIJOU BAGS

    Houston designers' diamond-adorned handbags turn heads in Hollywood

    Gabi De la Rosa
    Nov 5, 2025 | 10:30 am
    Kim Wilson and Mary Kay Bowden
    Photo courtesy of 11 Juillet
    Houston-based twins Mary Kay Bowden and Kim Willson, co-founders of 11 Juillet.

    Houston twins Mary Kay Bowden and Kim Willson are showcasing their Southern roots and global perspective with the launch of 11 Juillet. The brand's fine jewelry and luxury handbags are already favored by A-listers including Katie Holmes, Leslie Bibb, Jenna Ortega, Emma Roberts, and Jennifer Aniston.

    11 Juillet, named after the twins’ birthday, debuted its first collection in March. The line blends Italian craftsmanship with modern elegance, featuring handbags made from Italian calfskin leather and jewelry made with malachite, mother-of-pearl, onyx, and ethically sourced diamonds.

    “I’ve called Houston home for about 20 years, and Kim’s been here for about four,” Bowden tells CultureMap. “We originally grew up in Kentucky, where we first began to appreciate quality craftsmanship. In our early twenties, we spent time in New York, where we were introduced to fashion and design, followed by countless trips to Paris that deepened our appreciation for Parisian art and elegance. Once we settled in Texas, we were inspired by the South’s distinctive style.”

    Handbags range from $8,000 to $20,000, depending on diamond selections. Each purse features a medallion made with diamonds and natural stones ranging from 3.4 to 17 carats. The medallions are removable and can be worn as jewelry.

    Leslie Bibb 11 Juliet Celebrity Leslie Bibb is a fan of the Houston-based brand 11 Juillet. Photo courtesy of 11 Juillet

    Each 11 Juillet handbag is made to order in Tuscany, where Italian artisans craft the designs from full-grain calfskin. “After visiting artisans across the globe, we found Italy’s heritage of leather craftsmanship is unmatched,” they explain. “We are closely involved in designing each silhouette and communicate with our Italian artisans daily, frequently visiting Italy to ensure every piece is made with the utmost precision and the finest materials.”

    Their debut collection, Éclat de Joie, which translates to “radiance of joy,” represents what they stand for. “To us, the Éclat de Joie is the heart of 11 Juillet, a symbol of light, joy, and individuality,” said Wilson. “Each star medallion represents the harmony between natural beauty, technical mastery, and personal expression.”

    Currently, 11 Juillet is available online only, though the brand hosts pop-ups in various cities where merchandise is available on-site.

    “Success, for us, isn’t about chasing trends, but about creating heirloom-worthy pieces through timeless designs that hold meaning, reflect exceptional craftsmanship, and can be treasured and passed down for generations,” said Bowden.

    As Houston’s fashion scene continues to grow, Bowden and Willson see the Bayou City as the perfect home base. “We are based in Houston, which is known for its effortless elegance and love of diamonds. We are inspired by Texas’s fashion scene and we wanted to create handbags that let you wear your diamonds not just as jewelry, but as modern heirlooms to be cherished and passed down.”

    Kim Wilson and Mary Kay Bowden 11 Juliet

    Photo courtesy of 11 Juillet

    Houston-based twins Mary Kay Bowden and Kim Willson, co-founders of 11 Juillet.

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