If you’ve been basking under the summer sun slathered in SPF in your bikini, well October is here so it’s time to get ready to pull out your cozy sweaters and scarfs. During the summer we experience humid air, sun exposure, and high temperatures that can all affect our skin in the long run. When the temperature and humidity drop, your skin is suddenly dealing with a whole new array of concerns. After months under the heat our skin goes through UV damage, hyperpigmentation, clogged pores, and excess oil build-up.
Depending on where you live, fall weather is one small step closer to winter, therefore now is the perfect time to pamper your skin. If you’re noticing any new dark spots or rough skin texture, post-summer skin care is vital to repair any damage caused by the heat. Take this time to replenish and reinvigorate your skincare routine with a few changes.
Hydrating Cleanser
Your daily cleanser will wash away every speck of dirt, oil, and dead skin, but in the meanwhile, it’ll also strip it of all essential moisture from your skin. With the change in weather, cream or oil cleansers won’t leave your skin feeling dry, tight, or itchy after. Stay away from foaming cleansers that can be too drying and swap them for a nourishing gentle cleanser with hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
Thick Facial Moisturizer
You may discover that a little face moisturizer was all you needed throughout the summer, but your skin during the chilly months needs some extra moisture. With the dry temperatures, it's time to lay it on with a heavy-duty face cream that not only hydrates but also works as a barrier between skin and the environment. Opt for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide-rich formula that will keep you hydrated throughout the day.
Treat Sun Damage
Fall is an excellent time to shift your skincare to lighten and brighten your skin since these cooler months the sun won’t be as harsh and damaging. Integrate products to heal sun spots including antioxidants such as vitamin C, retinoids, exfoliating acids, and kojic acid. With serums and moisturizers infused with these sun-healing ingredients, your skin will instantly improve in a brighter tone and smoother texture.
Hydrate with Facial Oil
If your regular moisturizer just isn't cutting it anymore, a face oil may be just what you need to rejuvenate parched skin. This is an excellent way to add that touch of dewy glow to your skin while also restoring moisture balance during otherwise dry chilly months. Some oils worth trying are organic Marula oil, Rosehip oil, Argan Oil, Sea Buckthorn oil, and Squalane oil which is all high in anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants. Switch out your night cream with face oil and wake up to hydrated, supple skin.
Overnight Face Mask
If your skin could use an extra boost of hydration, an overnight face mask is your new BFF. Overnight face masks are very different from your average face masks since they are kept on the skin instead of getting rinsed off after 15 minutes. Look for masks formulated with vitamin c, hyaluronic acid, and retinol to get visibly radiant skin while you catch up on your beauty sleep.
Lay Back on Exfoliators
While we’re in autumn, when the skin is already changing, it may be time to cut back on chemical exfoliants and other strong active substances. The last thing you want to do is strip your skin from moisture during the drier months. Ingredients such as AHAs and BHAs can be extremely harsh on the skin and increase sensitivity to dryness, redness, and irritation. Take a break from harsh treatments and focus on keeping your skin hydrated.
Pout Protection
Chapped lips are going to be the first skin-related symptoms you’ll experience with the weather change. Prevent dry, cracked lips with a lip mask that will keep your lips supple and hydrated all day. Always carry an organic lip balm in your bag to apply it throughout the day to not only moisturize but keep it protected during the dry winds.
Much like your summer wardrobe, it's time to transition your skincare regimen to keep up with the weather for healthy and youthful-looking skin during the chilly months ahead.