WHAT IS KEY WHEN UPDATING YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR FALL?
When preparing your skin for fall and winter it is important to start using the right products early enough (i.e. now) to adjust the skin for weather changes. For example, the change in temperature between summer and fall, going from warm to cold, humid to dry (or depending where you live, to cold and damp) is often much more challenging for the skin than between spring and summer. Keep in mind that it is not only the outside temperatures that vary. Moving between heated, dry indoor air and the cold air outside is the main cause for dehydrated skin during the colder months. On top of this, office air conditioning system can also cause reactivity and dryness in skin.
HOW SHOULD YOU ADJUST YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE WIITH THE CHANGING SEASONS?
Being set up with a few good quality skincare products all year around, will make it much easier to make some adjustments to your skincare regimen, whenever change of season or other circumstances require for it. Good cleansing and good hydration are always key, regardless of the season. Even the really dry, problematic, atopic skin needs to be cleansed daily, as bacteria, dead skin cells and sweat will only make the condition worse. If your skin feels dry, opt for a more gentle cleanser.
Pay attention to the pH of products applied on your skin and opt for those with values closer to skin's own pH, i.e. around 5. If the skin has a healthy pH and a balanced flow of sweat and oil, alternating serums and face oils will most of the time help find the optimal skincare routine during each season. By adjusting the amount of these products you simply have to try out how much your skin needs right now - more hydration or more emollients, like oils.
Some skin types may need specific products to help maintain healthy skin during different seasons. Products with optimal absorbing properties are the key. Try adding a nourishing facial masks* and use products that protect and care for your skin.
WHAT HAPPENS IN THE SKIN WHEN THE AIR TEMPERATURE DROPS?
Both children and adult skins are affected by climatic and seasonal changes. Skin conditions like rosacea, different types of dermatitis and excema typically do not like climate changes and skin can get extra reactive.
Air humidity levels drop when the weather cools down and many experience red cheeks. During the colder months you are more likely to experience dryness and flakiness due to so called trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), that is a major factor responsible for dry skin in a colder, drier climate. The water loss can be slowed down with a facial oil that helps lock in the moisture in your skin - but do remember to use a hydrating product, such as a toner or some other treatment, underneath. An oil is not a humectant, i.e. does not possess hydrating properties on its own.
Last, remember to hydrate from the inside! Plenty of water and essential fatty acids are key all year round, not only in the hot summer months.
*TIP! Try the Laponie of Scandinavia All-Around Balm as a nourishing overnight mask.
