Seasonal Skin Care: Preparing Your Routine for Cooler Weather

Aug 12

The weather changes throughout the year, so it’s important to adapt your skin care routine to each season. What works during the spring & summer may not be effective in the cooler months. Let’s dive into what changes you can expect & how to keep your skin healthy & hydrated.

How Does Weather Affect Our Skin?

As the temperature drops outside & inside our homes, we often turn up the heater & light the fireplace, creating dry heat & reducing humidity. This combination can result in sensitive, dry, cracked, & itchy skin.

How to Prepare and Protect Your Skin

If you’ve been in my treatment room, you know I’ve recommended investing in a filtered humidifier to help with skin hydration. Humidifiers are a great way to prevent & treat dry skin by adding moisture back into the air. Find the humidifier I use at home here. Keeping your skin hydrated will be key as we transition into the cooler months.

Skin Care Routine Essentials

1. Gentle Cleansing:
Avoid harsh cleansers that strip the skin of its natural oils & moisturizing factors. Opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers instead.

2. Exfoliation:
Avoid daily exfoliation. Limit the use of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) & BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) to prevent over-exfoliating your skin.

3. Hydrating Serums & Products:
Invest in serums & products that contain hyaluronic acid (HA), sodium hyaluronate, & ceramides. These ingredients help the skin retain moisture.

4. Use Occlusives:
Apply a heavier moisturizer at night if your skin feels tight, dry, or flaky. Occlusives help lock in moisture & protect the skin barrier.

5. Wear a Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 (minimum):
Even in cooler months, it’s important to protect your skin from UV rays and free radicals.

6. Hydrate Internally & Externally:
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Adjust your diet & lifestyle to support skin hydration & health.

7. Take Warm Baths or Showers:
While hot showers or baths can be comforting, try to avoid them daily as they can dry out your skin. Opt for warm water instead.

8. Avoid Fragranced Detergents & Fabric Softeners:
If you’re one of my Acne Bootcamp guests, you’ve heard me say this before. Fragrance in detergents can cause skin dryness & sensitivity.

Book a Consultation

I always encourage you to book a skin care consultation & treatment to customize your routine for the season. This way, we can ensure you’re using products tailored to your skin type and conditions.