As the leaves change color and there’s a crispness in the air, it's not just your wardrobe that needs a reboot. (See what we did there with “boot”? Because boot season.). Your skincare routine needs to change it up for fall, too.
With the changing seasons and weather comes a range of new challenges for your skin, from dry, flaky patches to increased sensitivity. So we’re here to guide you through the fall skincare essentials you need to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing all season long.
Understanding Fall Skin Challenges
With cooler temperatures and less humidity, fall weather can wreak havoc on our skin. Bye, all-over sweaty skin and shine (often in awkward, hard-to-reach places)—hello, dry, parched skin.
The drop in humidity can lead to drier air, which sucks moisture from your skin. This lack of moisture can be especially harsh for those with dry or sensitive skin, but even those of us with oily skin may notice a difference. Throw in indoor heating, which can strip your skin of essential oils, and you’ve got a recipe for unhappy, irritated skin.
Different skin types experience varied seasonal transitions in their own ways.
-
Dry skin may feel even tighter, uncomfortable, and more prone to flaking.
-
Oily skin may feel relief from the summer heat but still needs proper hydration.
- Combination skin may experience a confusing mix of both dry patches and oilier areas. Yay!
Understanding these changes can help you better prepare for what your skin needs.
Fall Skincare Essentials
Now that you know why fall affects your skin, let’s dive into the essentials that will keep your complexion happy and hydrated.
1. Gentle Cleanser
Your cleanser sets the foundation for your skincare routine, so it’s crucial to choose one that respects your skin’s natural oils. For fall, switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser that removes impurities without stripping moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramides and aloe vera to soothe and cleanse simultaneously.
2. Hydrating Toner or Essence
After cleansing, a hydrating toner or essence can help prep your skin for the rest of your routine. These products add an extra layer of hydration and balance your skin’s pH levels. Ingredients that are naturally derived, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, attract moisture to the skin, making them perfect for colder months and fall.
3. Richer Moisturizer with Humectants
During the fall, your skin may crave a richer moisturizer to offset the drier, less humid environment. Switch to a formula with added humectants to lock in hydration. Shea butter and squalane are fantastic ingredients that help maintain your skin’s moisture barrier.
4. Antioxidant-Rich Moisturizer
Fall is a great time to introduce an antioxidant serum or heavier moisturizer into your routine. Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract protect your skin from environmental damage, making them essential for combating fall’s harsher elements. Plus, they can help to brighten and even out your complexion.
5. Brightening, Gentle Exfoliator
While it’s important not to overexfoliate, gentle exfoliation in fall can help keep your skin looking fresh. Look for AHAs or BHAs to help slough off dead skin cells and reveal a smoother texture. If you’re prone to keratosis pilaris (often called chicken bump skin), your skin definitely needs more exfoliation and hydration. If you have sensitive skin, try enzyme-based exfoliants for a gentler option. Bakuchiol is a retinol alternative that’s known to be gentler on sensitive skin.
6. Sunscreen: The Year-Round Essential
Many people assume sunscreen is only essential in the summer—nope, that’s a common myth. Harmful UV rays are present year-round, with UVA rays retaining their potency even if it’s overcast, so it’s essential to continue wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Opt for a mineral-based sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for immediate effective protection that’s gentle on all skin types.
7. Lip Balm and Hand Cream
Fall can be rough on your hands and lips, so don’t forget to give them some extra attention. Look for lip balms with beeswax or shea butter to keep your lips soft and hydrated. Better yet, find a lip balm or oil with SPF. For your hands, don’t forget the SPF; a moisturizing cream with vitamin E will help protect against the drying effects of cooler air.
Fall Skincare Routine Tips
Creating a fall skincare routine can be straightforward and simple. Here’s a simple morning and evening routine breakdown:
- Morning Routine: Start with a gentle cleanser, follow with a hydrating toner or essence, apply an antioxidant serum, lock in moisture with a thicker moisturizer, and finish with sunscreen.
- Evening Routine: Cleanse your face thoroughly, apply a hydrating serum or essence, layer on a rich moisturizer, and don’t forget to include lip balm and hand cream before bed.
Habits for Healthy Fall Skin
Skincare isn’t just about what you apply topically; lifestyle changes can make a big difference too. Here are a few tips to support your skin from the inside out:
- Stay Hydrated: As the air gets drier, drinking enough water becomes even more important for maintaining hydrated skin.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Nutrient-rich foods, especially those containing omega-3 fatty acids, can help keep your skin looking its best.
- Use a Humidifier: Combat indoor dryness by running a humidifier in your bedroom. This adds moisture back into the air, benefiting both your skin and overall comfort.
- Avoid Hot Showers: While it’s tempting to indulge in long, hot showers or steamy baths when it’s chilly outside, hot water can strip your skin of moisture. Choose lukewarm water and take quick showers.
Transitioning your skincare routine for fall is all about listening to your skin’s needs and making small adjustments to maintain its health and resilience. By incorporating these fall skincare essentials, you’ll be able to keep your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and protected no matter how chilly it gets. Enjoy the season, and remember—healthy skin is happy skin!
