Fall Skincare Tips: How to Transition Your Routine for Colder Weather
Have you noticed that as we progress into Fall your skin starts to feel different? Maybe it’s a bit drier than usual, or perhaps you’ve noticed an extra patch of redness here and there. I remember a couple of years back, when I felt my skin getting tight and flaky out of nowhere. It caught me off guard, just like many of us who are busy enjoying pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters. Fall is a beautiful season, but your skin can tell when it’s time for a change.
As the crisp air settles in, it’s not just your wardrobe that needs an adjustment, your skin does too. The cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels can sap moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and irritated. Pair that with the wind and indoor heating, and suddenly, your glowing summer complexion might start feeling a little less vibrant. Just like how you prepare your home for the season, it’s important to give your skin the care and attention it needs to thrive through fall. So, let’s look into how you can keep your skin feeling healthy and hydrated all season long.
Why Fall Skincare is Different from Summer
During summer, our skin is more exposed to heat, humidity, and higher UV levels, which may require lighter moisturizers and more frequent cleansing. However, when fall rolls in, the drop in humidity combined with cooler temperatures can cause your skin to become drier and more sensitive. According to dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, who specializes in skin health and has been featured in publications like Allure and Vogue, “Fall is the time when your skin barrier starts to weaken due to the dry air, making it more prone to irritation and dehydration.”
Dr Bowe’s expertise in skin care is rooted in her extensive experience treating patients and conducting research on the effects of environmental factors on skin health. She emphasizes the importance of transitioning skincare routines to provide extra moisture and protection.
Fall Skincare Tips You Need to Know
1. Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser
During the summer, many people opt for gel or foaming cleansers to help control oil and sweat. However, fall demands a different approach. A hydrating cleanser is your best friend as the temperature drops. Look for one that contains ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which draw moisture to the skin without stripping its natural oils.
A study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that gentle, hydrating cleansers can help maintain the skin’s natural barrier and prevent the dryness often caused by cold weather. The goal is to cleanse without compromising your skin’s moisture balance, so avoid harsh exfoliants or cleansers that contain sulfates.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, explains: “A hydrating cleanser is essential in the colder months because it adds a layer of moisture, protecting your skin from environmental dryness.”
2. Upgrade Your Moisturizer
During fall, it’s crucial to swap out your lightweight summer moisturizer for a thicker, more emollient one. A heavier moisturizer will create a barrier that locks in hydration and protects your skin from the dry, cold air. Ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and squalane are excellent for adding moisture and restoring the skin’s protective barrier.
In fact, a 2022 study from the Journal of Dermatological Science concluded that moisturizers containing ceramides help to repair the skin barrier, which becomes compromised during colder months. Adding these types of products to your routine will make a significant difference in keeping your skin smooth and hydrated.
3. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
One of the most common misconceptions is that sunscreen is only necessary during the summer. This couldn’t be further from the truth. UVA rays, which are responsible for premature aging, remain strong throughout the year—even on cloudy fall days. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and make it a staple in your daily skincare routine.
A recent report by the Skin Cancer Foundation stresses that up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds, making year-round sun protection vital. Dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist, also warns: “UV exposure doesn’t take a break during fall. Sunscreen is a year-round commitment if you want to prevent wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.”
4. Incorporate a Humidifier
As the air becomes drier, so does your skin. A simple yet highly effective tip is to use a humidifier in your home, particularly in your bedroom, where you spend many hours sleeping. Humidifiers help maintain moisture in the air, which prevents your skin from becoming too dry overnight.
According to a 2023 study from The International Journal of Cosmetic Science, adding a humidifier to your skincare routine can significantly reduce the risk of dry skin and promote skin hydration in colder months. It’s an easy, non-invasive way to give your skin the hydration it needs.
5. Exfoliate—But Not Too Much
Exfoliation is crucial to remove dead skin cells and allow your products to penetrate better, but in fall, you need to be more cautious. Over-exfoliating can weaken your skin’s barrier, which is already more vulnerable due to the colder, drier air. Opt for gentle exfoliants, like lactic acid or enzyme-based exfoliators, which are less abrasive than physical scrubs.
A 2021 study in the Journal of Dermatology found that chemical exfoliants containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are more effective and less damaging than physical scrubs, especially in colder weather.
6. Hydrate from Within
Don’t forget that what you put into your body is just as important as what you put on your skin. Drinking enough water is key to maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. While we naturally drink more water during the hot summer months, it’s just as essential to stay hydrated during fall.
Nutrition expert Dr. Marisa Moore, a registered dietitian, recommends incorporating foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, into your fall diet to support healthy skin. “Hydrating from within with water-rich foods and beverages is a crucial part of maintaining your skin’s natural glow during the colder months.”
7. Add a Facial Oil
Facial oils can be a game-changer during fall. Not only do they provide additional moisture, but they also lock in your other skincare products, allowing them to work more effectively. Oils like jojoba, rosehip, or argan oil are lightweight yet deeply hydrating, making them perfect for fall.
A recent article in Byrdie emphasizes the importance of facial oils during the cooler months. Esthetician Joanna Vargas, who has worked with celebrities like Emma Stone, explains: “Facial oils create a protective layer on your skin, helping to lock in moisture and improve the skin’s barrier function.”
The Importance of Adapting Your Skincare Routine with the Seasons
It’s easy to forget that your skin’s needs change with the seasons. What works for your skin in the summer might not be effective in fall. The shift in temperature and humidity requires you to be mindful of hydration and barrier protection, so your skin can remain healthy and glowing.
As skincare expert Caroline Hirons puts it, “Skincare is not a one-size-fits-all solution. As the environment changes, so should your routine. Fall is a time to focus on hydration and repairing the barrier function of your skin.”
Conclusion
Fall is the perfect time to reassess and refresh your skincare routine. With expert-recommended tips like switching to hydrating cleansers, upgrading your moisturizer, and ensuring year-round sun protection, you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best even as the weather cools down. Incorporating these fall skincare tips will not only prevent seasonal dryness but will also help your skin maintain its glow all year long.
Remember, your skin is your largest organ, and it deserves the same seasonal care and attention you give the rest of your body. By following these fall skincare tips, you’ll enjoy a healthy, hydrated complexion no matter how chilly it gets outside.
Citations:
- Dr. Whitney Bowe (Dermatologist): Specializes in skin health, has been featured in Allure and Vogue.
- Dr. Joshua Zeichner (Dermatologist): Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.
- Dr. Hadley King (Dermatologist): Board-certified dermatologist, expert in sun protection.
- The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology
- Journal of Dermatological Science
- Skin Cancer Foundation
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science
- Journal of Dermatology
- Byrdie: Expert advice from Joanna Vargas (Celebrity Esthetician)
