Skincare routines are like your closet; a couple of times a year, you need to switch out the pieces that no longer fit the season. You may think that using the same products year-round is a good idea, but it’s important to remember that as seasons change, so does the way your skin reacts to its environment. Here are five ways to transition your skincare routine from the heat of the summer to a crisp and cool autumn:
1. Moisturize
When the weather begins to cool down, it’s common for skin to dry up. If you’ve been using a lighter moisturizer in the summer, switch out your lotion for a heavier product and apply it more regularly to keep hydration locked in. This is especially crucial in the mornings and evenings after you’ve washed your face and its craving moisture. You can also take your moisturizing game to the next level by adding and mixing a few drops of facial oil into your lotion for an added treatment boost.
2. Exfoliate
Although you might think exfoliating would increase dryness, that’s certainly not the case! Exfoliators are skin-sloughing agents that treat flaky skin, which more people have when they’re constantly exposed to colder and drier temperatures. Exfoliate once or twice weekly to remove dead skin cells that trap oil and cause breakouts. Not only will it improve skin discoloration, but exfoliating also eliminates dull, tired-looking skin and encourages fresher, plumper cells to form for a flawless finish.
3. Change Up Your Face Mask
Oil-free, skin tightening face masks are great for summer, but more hydrating face masks are ideal for fall. Look for water-based gel masks to hydrate and soothe redness for more sensitive skin types. If your skin is still feeling dry, try a cream-based mask. Cream masks contain moisturizing oils that help deeply hydrate and plump up normal to dry skin types in no time.
4. Keep Applying Sunscreen
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you should slack off on your sunscreen routine. The temperatures might be cooler, but the sun’s UVA rays (causing skin cancer and premature wrinkles) are just as strong as they were in July and August. Regularly apply sunscreen to your face, neck, and any other exposed areas like your chest to protect your skin from direct sunlight. Afraid of wearing real sunblock under your makeup for fear of breaking out? Opt for a good moisturizer with SPF instead!
5. Up Your Retinol Game
Retinol (Vitamin A) is the standard ingredient to reversing the signs of skin aging. It has the power to accelerate skin renewal and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots for firmer, smoother, and evenly toned skin. You can easily increase your retinol use by taking a Vitamin A supplement, using retinol-based creams and serums, or take prescription retinol supplements (but consult with your dermatologist first!).
By following the tips above, your skin will continue looking and feeling its best through the entire fall season. If you’re unsure about what products are best for your skin, contact our Wilmington, NC, dermatology specialists at Coastal Dermatology & Surgery Center. Our office carries a variety of skin care options suitable for all skin types and we’re happy to discuss which products will work best for you.