Fortunately, the Cape has plenty of day spas for pampering, so if you're here on an autumn getaway you can sneak some spa time in between biking, antiquing and walks on the quieter beaches.

Sheryl Baba, owner of Solstice Spa in Hyannis, says fall is a catch-up time for many clients when it comes to skincare.

"A lot of people do feel this is the time - their conscience is bothering them because they have been out in the sun," she says, and they are hoping to make amends. Two facial treatments that help a great deal in that area, she says, are microdermabrasion and photo rejuvenation.

Microdermabrasion is "very controlled exfoliation" in a process that uses aluminum oxide. "It's like sandblasting your skin," Baba says. She recommends a series of six treatments for optimal results.
Photo rejuvenation is another high-tech treatment that uses red and infrared lights to smooth fine lines and even out spots that can result from sun exposure. Since it's pricey and also makes skin more sun sensitive for a time, Baba recommends people get this done in the fall, when they've stopped spending time at the beach.

Solstice offers an Ultimate Facial that combines both treatments; it takes almost two hours, providing deep relaxation along with results.
In addition to facials, there are full-body treatments to give all of your skin a new lease on life for a new season. The Solstice Oyster Pearl Body Polish begins with time in Solstice's personal steam shower to soften the skin. Then a massage therapist works an exfoliating product into the skin, and after rinsing, a nourishing lotion. "It gets rid of dry, dead skin, and feels great for a new season,".


Speaking of dry, dead skin, fall is also a good time for pedicures to pretty up the feet that have gone bare for a few months, and manicures to save hands - which may actually miss out on sunscreen in summer, due to hand washing. Cape Cod Spas

Fall may also find your locks looking a bit dull. "Hair takes a beating in summer," says Baba. To help with that, Solstice is among the spas that offer a glaze to seal the hair and give it a healthy shine. "It makes a big difference," she promises.

Whether you're going back to school or back to work, fall is the time to put your best face forward. This year, give it a boost with a spa visit - an experience that will make your Cape Cod getaway even better.