How to Change Your Skincare Routine for Fall

There’s no magic number for how many times a year you should change your skincare routine. After all, if it isn’t broke, why mess with it, right? Well, my suggestion? Switch it up as the seasons’ change.

In my simple skincare fanatic opinion, skincare is seasonal. We cannot shy away from the effects weather has on our skin, and without having a degree, anyone can see that their skin looks and feels different in the summer than during fall or winter.

To prep your skincare routine for fall, you must keep one thing in mind: moisture, moisture, moisture. Remember that dry skin is not the same as dehydrated skin. During fall, temperatures drop, and there’s less humidity, so your skin starts losing moisture, increasing dryness and irritation. Here’s how to shield your skin for the season.

Cleansers: Choose Balm Cleansers

Trade-in your foaming cleanser for a richer and thicker one. Usually, cleansing balms are the best way to give your skin a complete cleanse that also melts makeup off without stripping its oils. If balm cleansers are not your thing, try an oil-based cleanser instead.

Toners: Make them Hydrating

Some people believe toners should be astringent – they shouldn’t. Instead, they should prep your skin for what’s next and make sure no cleanser residues were left behind. Look for one with hyaluronic acid, aka the king of all moisture boosters.

Moisturizers: Choose Thicker & Richer Ones

During summer, light moisturizers are a must to help your skin breathe. During fall, your skin needs a moisturizer that packs a bit more oomph. Switch to a balm or oil moisturizer to keep your skin shielded from the dry outside all day. Also, consider having a humidifier by your desk and bedroom to cut down the dryness.

Exfoliants: Keep them Low

While you don’t need to buff away all the extra SPF that builds up during summer, your skin needs room to breathe. Think of gentle exfoliants with enzymes that you can use at least once a week. Decrease all use of retinoids as they’re also exfoliants.

Treatments: Change Ingredients

‘Tis the season for all your favorite face masks. Since your skin is in significant need of some moisture, face masks can keep your skin happy during fall. Also, you may want to consider adding vitamin C to your regiment to target pigmentation and boost collagen production so that you can fight back at dull complexion common during the colder months.

Sunscreen: Keep it Coming

I’m not kidding when I say sunscreen is a year-round thing. Even when it’s pouring outside, I wear sunscreen. Hey, I reapply my sunscreen at night. Fall days can trick us in thinking the sun is hiding, but trust me, the sun is always sending its harmful UV rays your way.

A few edits here and there will help you make sure your skincare routine is ready to tackle everything the fall season might throw at you. Not to mention, it sets your routine for the harsh winter months ahead as well.