It happens every year: whether you spend every day of summer outside, or hide in the air-conditioning dreaming of fall leaves, the warm sunshine eventually gives way to brisk autumn breezes. As the weather shifts from warm and humid to cool and dry, your skin may also undergo some changes. Dry skin can get flakier, acne-prone skin can become more inflamed, and sensitivities may flare. So what can you do about it?
Summertime damage
First things first: we all need to address the skin damage that inevitably occurs in the summer. Whether it’s UV rays, wind, salt water, or chlorine, it’s almost impossible to completely avoid some damage to your skin in the summer. And that’s ok! We will always advocate for sunscreen every day, but it’s just as important to live your life – and in the summer that means vacations, trips to the beach, and hanging by the pool. Luckily we have a few tips to help your skin recover:
- Vitamin C + Vitamin E: To help repair your skin from a life well-lived, an extra dose of antioxidants in your skincare routine may be in order. Adding vitamin C and vitamin E to your routine will help nourish your skin and from UV rays and free radicals.
- Gentle + hydrating: Switching to a gentler, more hydrating cleanser will help soothe sun-damaged skin and calm any redness or irritation caused by your summer adventures. Our Apostrophe dermatologist, Dr. Mamina Turegano adds, “I transition from foaming cleansers to more moisturizing/hydrating cleansers... like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser or Cerave hydrating cleanser.” Adding moisture to your skin will also give you a headstart on the dryness many of us experience in the fall and winter months as a result of drier weather and indoor heating.
A shock to the system
When the weather suddenly changes from warm and humid to cold and dry, it can be a shock to our bodies, including our skin. Because our skin takes time to adjust to new and different environments, there can be a rough adjustment period when temperatures suddenly drop and the air becomes much drier. These changes are often compounded by lifestyle changes like cranking your central heating and taking longer, hotter showers. While it’s nice to get cozy after a hot shower, the combination of cold, dry air outside, hot, dry air inside, and exposure to hot water for longer periods can result in very dry, or even cracked, skin. The best thing to do during this transition period (and throughout the winter if your skin tends towards the dry side) is to pack on the moisture! Take the opportunity to indulge in a rich moisturizer for both your face and your body. Remember that the is right out of the shower when your skin is still damp. Apply within five minutes to lock in hydration and get the most out of your product.
Soothe and protect
In conclusion: antioxidants + gentle cleansers + lots of moisture = healthier skin this fall! Like adding an extra jacket on your body as the temperatures get colder, an extra layer of hydration for your skin will keep you healthy and comfortable. Keep your products gentle to help repair any damage left from the summer and to give you a headstart on keeping your skin glowing this winter! Changing weather can be harsh, but if you continue to pay attention to what your skin needs, you can keep looking and feeling your best.
What’s your go-to product when it starts cooling down outside? Tell us on Twitter @hi_apostrophe or shoot us an email at [email protected]!
