How To Transition Your Skincare Routine For Fall

As the vibrant days of summer fade into the crispness of fall, your skincare routine needs a seasonal adjustment. The cooler, drier air can take a toll on your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts if not properly addressed. Transitioning your skincare routine for fall is essential to maintain a healthy, glowing complexion. Here’s how you can make the shift seamlessly…

Switch to a Gentle Cleanser – During the summer, your skin may have needed a more robust cleanser to deal with excess oil and sweat. However, as the weather cools down, a gentle, hydrating cleanser becomes more appropriate. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness and irritation in the fall.

Tip: Look for cleansers that are sulfate-free and contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Cream or milk-based cleansers are excellent choices for maintaining moisture. (I really like CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. Perfect for fall & winter facial cleansing).

Incorporate a Hydrating Toner – Toners are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in prepping your skin for the rest of your routine. In the fall, swap your astringent or alcohol-based toner for one that’s more hydrating. A good toner can help restore your skin’s pH balance and provide an extra layer of moisture, which is vital as the air becomes drier.

Tip: Opt for toners with ingredients like rose water, aloe vera, or hyaluronic acid to soothe and hydrate the skin. (I love Heritage Store Rosewater & Glycerin Hydrating Facial Mist. Great for keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day).

Layer on the Moisture – As humidity levels drop, your skin can lose moisture more quickly, leading to dryness and flakiness. To combat this, it’s essential to ramp up your moisturizing game. If you have been using a lightweight lotion during the summer, now’s the time to switch to a richer, more emollient cream.

Tip: Look for moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, Shea butter, or Squalane, which help to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. (I absolutely love Nivea Crème! This has been in my skincare routine for a few years now, this keeps my skin hydrated & moisturized throughout the day no matter what the season is).

Don’t Skip the SPF – Just because the sun isn’t as strong in the fall doesn’t mean you can ditch the sunscreen. UV rays can still cause damage even on cloudy days, so maintaining daily sun protection is crucial to prevent premature aging and skin damage.

Tip: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and consider a formula that also includes moisturizing ingredients to keep your skin hydrated. (I like CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30, Sheer Tint. It hydrates, lightweight & non-greasy).

Introduce a Hydrating Serum – Adding a hydrating serum to your routine can give your skin the extra boost it needs during the cooler months. Serums with hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or peptides can help plump the skin, reduce fine lines, and provide lasting hydration.

Tip: Apply your serum right after toning and before moisturizing to lock in the maximum amount of moisture. (I am liking Luvum Hyaluronic Moisture Serum w/Bamboo. Just a few drops keeps my skin hydrated & plump).

Exfoliate, But Don’t Overdo It – Exfoliation is essential for removing dead skin cells and keeping your complexion bright. However, as your skin becomes more sensitive in the fall, it’s important to avoid over-exfoliating, which can lead to irritation and dryness.

Tip: Reduce the frequency of exfoliation to 1-2 times per week and opt for a gentler exfoliant, such as a mild chemical exfoliant with lactic acid or a physical scrub with fine particles. (I love St. Ives Soft Skin Avocado & Honey Scrub. This is gentle & leaves my skin exfoliated & soft).

Consider Adding Facial Oil – Facial oils can be a game-changer during the fall, providing an additional layer of hydration and sealing in moisture. They’re particularly beneficial for those with dry or combination skin, as they help to balance the skin’s natural oil production while delivering essential nutrients.

Tip: Apply a few drops of facial oil as the last step in your nighttime routine or mix it with your moisturizer for added nourishment. (I love Trader Joe’s 100% Organic Argan Oil. This seals in my moisturizer & provides an additional layer of hydration for my skin).

Stay Hydrated from the Inside Out – While external hydration is crucial, don’t forget about internal hydration. Drinking plenty of water and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help keep your skin hydrated and glowing from the inside out.

Tip: Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, which help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier.

Reevaluate Your Nighttime Routine – Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so your nighttime routine is vital for keeping your skin healthy during the fall. Consider incorporating a richer night cream or a sleeping mask to provide your skin with extra hydration and nourishment overnight.

Tip: If your skin feels particularly dry, apply a thicker layer of your night cream or use an overnight hydrating mask a few times a week for an intense moisture boost. (When I need additional hydration at night, I use Loreal Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition Night Balm. This gives my skin the extra moisture it needs for fall & winter).

Transitioning your skincare routine for fall is all about adapting to the changing needs of your skin as the weather cools down. By incorporating more hydrating and nourishing products, protecting your skin from the elements, and being mindful of your exfoliation routine, you can maintain a healthy, glowing complexion all season long. So, as you swap out your summer wardrobe for cozy sweaters, don’t forget to give your skincare routine a seasonal update as well and until next week, be happy, healthy, and beautiful!