From Summer Glow to Fall Radiance: Your Derm-Approved Picks for Seasonal Skincare Reset
As the long, sun-drenched days of summer give way to the crisp, cool air of autumn, it’s time to update your skincare routine. The change in season brings a new set of environmental factors, from dropping humidity to cooler temperatures, which can affect your skin's health and appearance. By making a few strategic, derm-approved tweaks, you can ensure your skin stays hydrated, healthy, and radiant all year long.
Adjusting to the Change in Humidity
One of the most noticeable differences between summer and fall is the shift in humidity levels. The dry air of autumn can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, flakiness, and a compromised skin barrier.
How to adapt:
Switch to a richer moisturizer. While you may have reached for a lightweight gel in the summer, fall calls for a more nourishing cream-based formula with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin.
Splurge (but TOTALLY worth it)- Skinceuticals A.G.E. Interrupter
Budget Approved- Peach and Lily Peptide Pro Firming Moisturizer
Layer hydrating serums. Give your skin an extra boost of moisture with a serum containing hyaluronic acid or niacinamide. Layering is key for locking in hydration (always remember- thinnest to thickest when applying topicals.... AND don’t over-do it).
This fall I am in LOVE with- Ordinary Squalane Serum!
Consider a humidifier. Running a humidifier in your bedroom at night can help combat the drying effects of indoor heating and rehydrate your skin as you sleep.
The Whole-Body Hydration Routine
Don't forget that the skin on your body also needs extra attention during the seasonal transition. Just like your face, your body is susceptible to dryness, especially as you swap tank tops for long sleeves.
SPF body serums offer lightweight, hydrating sun protection that won't leave you feeling greasy. Try a derm-approved option with a high SPF to protect your skin from UV rays, which are present even on cloudy fall days. "Use mineral SPF daily" is a mantra that holds true all year.
No need to break the bank. Just try- Eucerin Daily Hydration Body Cream SPF 30
Peptide creams help to build and maintain the skin's collagen and elasticity. Look for formulas with a blend of peptides to improve your skin's texture and firmness, keeping it supple as the weather gets colder.
Don’t forget you can layer- even on the body. Try a nourishing oil and lock it in with moisturizer. I like jojoba oil with Aveeno’s Daily Moisturizing Cream.
Rethinking Your Bronzing Strategy
While a sun-kissed glow is a summer staple, it's important to remember that all tans are a sign of sun damage. As you transition to fall, avoid the temptation to prolong your tan by over-exposing your skin to the sun. Instead, opt for safer, derm-backed bronzing alternatives.
Safe bronzing brands: For a healthy, luminous glow, explore brands known for their safe and effective self-tanning and bronzing products.
Check out my BLOG: Gen Z’s Guide to Bronzing: Smart, Safe, and Skin-First
Gentle Exfoliation and Repairing Summer Damage
Summer fun can sometimes come with a cost, from sunspots and hyperpigmentation to general dullness caused by buildup. Fall is the perfect time to address these concerns and repair your skin.
How to fix it:
Exfoliate gently. Resist the urge to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to irritation and further compromise your skin barrier. Instead, opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) a couple of times a week to remove dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion.
Target summer damage. Consider incorporating products with ingredients like retinol or niacinamide to help fade dark spots and even out skin tone. If you have significant sun damage, consulting a dermatologist for in-office treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy can also be a great option.
This fall trade your Hydroquinone for Tranexamic Acid Serum
By following these derm-approved tips, you can seamlessly transition your skincare routine and embrace the beautiful fall season with a healthy, glowing complexion.
