Should I Change Up My Skincare Routine From Summer To Fall?

A change of season typically means a change in the way skin behaves, often resulting in dryness, breakouts, and a general lackluster appearance. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, breakouts can actually increase during the fall season. The oil flow that takes place in the skin during the summer months is still occurring, yet the cooler air is creating layers of dead skin cell buildup. This traps oil and bacteria beneath the surface of the skin, which leads to an increase in breakout activity. On top of this, skin may start to require more hydration. You don’t need to overhaul your skincare routine entirely, but you do need to make some minor tweaks to your regimen to ensure that skin stays healthy during this seasonal change.

Make the transition from summer to fall flawless with my expert tips:

1. Change Your Cleansing Routine

During the summer months, gel and foaming cleansers are great for deep cleaning morning and night; however, these may be a bit drying once the temperatures cool down and less oil is being produced. A good rule of thumb is to use a non-drying, sulfate-free gel cleanser in the morning and a lightweight, lotion-based cleanser at night. The gel will offer a deep pore cleansing, while a cleansing lotion, which is a bit milder, can do a more effective job of dissolving makeup on the face and within the pores.

2. Boost Hydration

Toners are often an overlooked step in a skin-care regimen. If you aren’t already using one, now’s the time to start. Toners that are alcohol-free are a perfect way to give your skin the water and hydration it so desperately needs in the fall, when the temperatures are cooler. Skin cells are like fish and need water to live. Wipe or spray an alcohol free toner over the skin after cleansing and immediately apply serum or moisturizer while it’s still damp to seal in the hydration and active ingredients.

3. Go With A Heavier Moisturizer And Start Using Hyaluronic Acid Serum

A lightweight moisturizer will be enough for most skin types in the summer, but when the weather begins to cool down, it is important to apply something a little heavier to prevent moisture loss. It is also a great idea to start using your hyaluronic acid serum underneath the moisturizer again.

4. Protect With SPF

This may come as a surprise, but fall (similar to spring) is a season where a tremendous amount of UV damage is incurred. We often think that when the temperatures are cooler outside, the sun isn’t as harmful, but this is false. While the UVB rays (the ones responsible for causing suntans or sunburns) are not as strong in autumn, the UVA rays (the ones that cause skin cancer and premature wrinkles) are just as strong as they are in July and August. Protection is a year-round job, so be sure to apply a sunscreen formulated for your skin type for the face, neck, and any exposed chest area to shield from direct sunlight.

5. Exfoliate

Because certain skin types can be prone to increased sensitivity in summertime from heat, chlorine, and sun, exfoliation should be minimal. But come fall, exfoliation is imperative when it comes to repairing and brightening the complexion. For silky, smooth skin, use a well-formulated facial scrub or an at-home exfoliating peel like Mini Pumpkin Peel.

6. Listen To Your Skin

Regardless of seasons, our skin, like our bodies, is constantly changing and adapting to whatever we throw its way, whether internal or external. It’s important to be attentive and listen to your skin for signs that it’s not getting what it needs. Tightness, dryness, increased breakouts and sensitivity are all signs that your current skincare routine isn’t working for you and a change is in order. Pay attention to what your skin is telling you. You always want to work with Mother Nature, never go against her. When skin problems start to occur, you must make certain that you are using products that specifically address your skin’s needs. It’s also time to schedule your monthly appointment.

Seasonal changes can definitely create change in the skin, so by following these skin tips and changing up your skin-care routine, you can keep it looking and feeling its best.