With the quick onset of fall also comes the rapid changes in our routines and closet, but we can't forget to practice self-care by giving some TLC to our skin.
When adapting your skincare routine from summer to fall, there are some general things to keep in mind. Because of the drop in temperature, fall and winter skincare should be centered around optimizing moisturization, which means swapping out gel products for cream ones.
The American Academy of Dermatology says to always avoid products that contain alcohols, always, but especially in the winter as they dry out your skin. What may come as a surprise is they also recommend wearing sunscreen year-round; dermatologists agree protecting your skin from sun damage is the easiest way to prevent signs of aging and promote healthy skin maintenance.
In fall and winter also keep in mind the emergence of new problems areas on our skin due to the drop in temperatures. Areas more susceptible to dehydration other than our face include our hands and lips, so upping the hydration game is key.
Each person has unique skin, with unique skincare needs. No matter what your skin type, these fall transition skin care tips will help you settle into your new routine.
10 Go with a Creamy Moisturizer Instead Of Lotion
Always use a facial moisturizer instead of lotion. Facial moisturizers are thicker and protect the dermal layer better from cold and dry weather according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Usually, facial moisturizers also contain other components such as hyaluronic acid or vitamins which promote healthy skin whereas lotions do not, which is recommended by dermatologists.
As mentioned above always pick products that don't contain alcohol! The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that moisturizer should be applied after washing your face (and after applying serums) twice daily for maximum hydration. Moisturizer is like the overarching mask for concealing hydration, it is a very important part of your skin routine no matter what the season.
9 Change The Gel/Foam Cleanser For A Creamy Cleanser
A moisturizing cleanser is always a good idea, but with the drop in temperatures, it is essential. Cleaning your face is usually the first step in a skincare routine therefore using a moisturizing cleanser allows you to lock in hydration from the beginning.
Dermatologists recommend looking for products labeled as "gentle" or "moisturizing". A really popular brand for its effectiveness and affordability is CeraVe.
8 Introduce Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyaluronic Acid is trendy right now, but for good reason: it locks in moisture and supports dermal elasticity for promoting healthy aging, says the American Academy of Dermatology. Many facial cleansers and moisturizers contain it, but adding a serum to your skincare routine is a great way to combat winter dryness and boost healthy skin.
It should be applied after you wash your face and before applying facial moisturizer. It is difficult to find a product that checks all of our boxes but The Ordinary is economic, sustainable and vegan.
7 Vitamin C Is Always A Good Idea
According to dermatologists, Vitamin C serum has many benefits such as brightening, lifting, toning, revitalizing and protecting the skin. It should be applied after washing your face and before applying moisturizer.
There is a debate about if Vitamin C serum is more efficient when applied in the morning or at night, but dermatologists agree the deciding factor seems to be what kind of skin you have.
If you have sensitive skin and you apply Vitamin C serum in the morning (to protect your skin from free radicals) make sure to apply sunscreen to avoid irritation. Applying it at night is also beneficial because your skin revitalizes during sleep, according to dermatologists.
6 Use Moisturizing Masks Instead Of Clay Masks
With sweater weather, we all just want to curl up at home, watch a movie and throw on a facemask. When facemask day arrives, pick a moisturizing face mask instead of a clay mask. Clay masks are great for extracting dirt and oils but they dehydrate the skin.
If you are unsure what mask to go for, selecting a sheet mask is generally a safe bet. Read the label before buying but most are for hydrating skin.
5 Red Algae Beauty Products
One of this year's newest beauty trends is products that contain red algae. Scientists have found that marine algae contain bioactive components that prevent signs of aging and moisturize.
Products are popping up all over with red algae components, such as face masks and creams. This trend is definitely worth a try and backed by hard science.
4 Use Cold Water To Wash Your Face
This may seem a little backward since we are trying to fight off the cold, but hot water actually dehydrates your skin more. Using cold water when washing your face will also wake up your skin a little faster, such as alleviating puffy morning eyes.
3 Buy A Humidifier
Dryness is the most difficult part of cold weather for your skin. In winter when we suddenly have dry hands, feet, elbows and lips that is mostly due to dryness in the air.
Buying a humidifier will support hydrated skin. If you don't want to run it all the time consider turning it on while you sleep.
Having a humidifier will also help fight off winter sniffles season, and the general feeling of a dry nose and throat.
2 Don't Forget To Hydrate Your Lips
Lips are a problem area during winter as sensitive skin becomes dehydrated quickly. For the fall and winter months, it might be necessary to trade in your chapstick for a more protective lip moisturizer.
If you love to wear lipstick, that can also be a challenge in the winter. Try applying a lip moisturizer at night, and a light layer in the morning to give you some daily protection. Then apply lipstick right before leaving the house.
1 Find A Good Hand Moisturizer
It is easy to forget hands when making our skin and beauty routine. Many people suffer from seasonal eczema in the winter due to cold and dry weather. Finding a good hand moisturizer and applying it after washing your hands is key.
Find a hand cream that you can carry in your bag to apply throughout the day to keep your hands happy and healthy.
