Dryness is one of the first signs we notice as we enter the fall season, beyond just leaves changing color, drying out and falling to the ground. As wintry weather sets in, you may notice your skin becoming dry and irritated if you don’t take the proper care to prevent it and prepare your skin for the cooler temperatures.
Switch up your skincare routine
The changing of seasons is when you should be paying extra attention to your skincare routine and making adjustments based on your skin’s needs.
Cleanse
When it comes to cleansing your skin – whether it be face or body – you may notice that your skin is tight and dry after washing. If that is the case, change out your cleansers. Try moisturizing cleansers, crème cleansers for your face – ones that do not foam are best. Lotion and cream cleansers are less stripping to the skin.
Another option to try is cleansing oils, also called oil cleansers, which leave the skin feeling more moisturized while still cleaning effectively. For body wash, look for rich in emollients to support your skin barrier like plant butters, oils, and lipids; and stay away from harsh sulfates, opting for gentler sulfate-free cleansers.
Moisturize
Change up your moisturizer during fall and winter months with a thicker cream for the face and butter for the body. If you usually use face serums like with hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, then switch out for a face moisturizer containing those same ingredients. The same goes for your body lotion – if using a light lotion, go for a body butter instead. By using heavier formulation, you can help protect the skin from dryness.
Ingredients like shea butter or cocoa butter, as well as olive, avocado, or jojoba oils are occlusive emollient ingredients that help lock in moisture, and especially so if using a formula with hyaluronic acid. To increase the moisture benefit of hyaluronic acid, apply it on damp skin; this seals and enhances the retention of moisture in the skin. Do not forget about your lips and nails – moisturize with lip balm and/or an all-over balm (your cuticles need love too!)
More skincare tips
- Cut back on using retinol and exfoliating: During the winter these products are more likely to be irritating on dry and sensitive skin; just use less depending on your skin needs.
- Don’t forget to continue using SPF daily: We still get UV rays in the fall and winter, and if you are a skier be sure to use SPF as you are in high altitude.
- Use a humidifier: Dry indoor air from heaters can dry out already dry winter air. A humidifier can add moisture in the air to make your skin look more hydrated. Spend less time near heat sources which can dry out your skin.
Start your winter skin care routine early so your skin gets a jump start before the dryness sets in. Severely dry and irritating skin may have a broken skin barrier which can take time to properly heal, taking at least three to four months for skin barrier to fully repair – so keep up with the routine if you do not see results right away.
