As the temperature drops, so does the moisture in the air, and your skin begins to feel it. You might notice more dryness, irritation, or flakiness during this time of year. Here’s a guide with actionable tips to help you adjust your skincare routine and keep your skin healthy through the cooler months.
Try a Cream-Based Cleanser
Gel and foaming cleansers are great for summer but can be too harsh as the weather cools. A cream cleanser provides more hydration while still effectively cleansing your skin. It’s gentler and won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for one that contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. That’s why using a cream cleanser can help your skin feel soft and smooth.
Add a Moisturizing Serum
Your skin needs extra moisture when the air is dry, and a hydrating serum is an excellent addition to your routine. Serums with hyaluronic acid or glycerin attract moisture and lock it into your skin. Apply it before your moisturizer to boost hydration levels. It also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness. For example, a hyaluronic acid serum can keep your skin plump throughout the day.
Use a Richer Moisturizer
During cooler weather, your skin’s barrier function can weaken, leading to more water loss. A thicker moisturizer can act as a protective layer. Look for one with ingredients like ceramides or shea butter to deeply nourish your skin. You don’t need to apply it in heavy amounts—just a pea-sized amount should do. This will help prevent dry patches from forming.
Choose a Mild Exfoliant
Exfoliating is still important in cooler months, but you should switch to a gentler formula. Harsh scrubs can irritate skin that’s already dry. Instead, try a chemical exfoliant with lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which remove dead skin cells without being abrasive. Regular exfoliation can help your other skincare products absorb better, but don’t overdo it—once or twice a week is enough.
Incorporate Face Oil for Extra Hydration
Face oils can provide an extra layer of moisture when your skin needs it most. Oils like rosehip, argan, or squalane are lightweight and won’t clog your pores. Apply a few drops over your moisturizer to seal in hydration. For example, rosehip oil is rich in essential fatty acids that nourish the skin. But be sure to choose oils that suit your skin type to avoid any irritation.
Keep Using Sunscreen
Even though the sun isn’t as strong in cooler months, UV rays are still present and can damage your skin. Opt for a sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and make sure it has broad-spectrum protection. You can use a sunscreen that’s more hydrating to double as a protective moisturizer. This will help prevent premature aging and keep your skin safe from sun exposure all year round.
Invest in a Humidifier
Cooler weather often means drier air indoors due to heating systems. A humidifier can help bring back moisture into your environment, preventing your skin from drying out. Place it in your bedroom, especially while you sleep, to give your skin a hydration boost. It helps your skin retain moisture overnight, making it look fresher in the morning. That’s why it’s an easy way to support your skincare routine.
Skip Hot Water in Showers
Hot showers can feel amazing when it’s cold, but they strip your skin of essential oils, leaving it drier. Try using lukewarm water instead to prevent dehydration. After showering, pat your skin dry and apply a moisturizer immediately to lock in moisture. Your skin will feel more balanced and less prone to irritation. For example, skipping hot water can make a big difference in how hydrated your skin feels.
Try an Overnight Hydration Mask
An overnight mask can provide intense hydration while you sleep. Look for one with ingredients like ceramides, peptides, or hyaluronic acid to deeply nourish your skin. Apply it as the final step in your nighttime routine once or twice a week. This gives your skin extra moisture, so you wake up with a refreshed complexion. It’s an effortless way to treat dry, dull skin.
Use Fragrance-Free Products
Fragrance in skincare can be irritating, especially in colder months when your skin is more sensitive. Try switching to fragrance-free products to avoid potential reactions or dryness. Fragrance-free formulas are often gentler and more suitable for dry skin. This makes a big difference if you have eczema or other sensitive skin conditions. That’s why reading labels is essential for sensitive skin.
Focus on Lip Care
Your lips are one of the first areas to get dry and chapped in cooler weather. A thick lip balm with ingredients like beeswax or shea butter can help lock in moisture. Apply it throughout the day and before bed for best results. You can also gently exfoliate your lips once a week with a lip scrub. This will remove dead skin and keep them soft and smooth.
Layer Your Skincare Products
Layering your products can help your skin better absorb all the moisture it needs. Start with the lightest products, like toners or serums, and work your way up to thicker ones like moisturizers or oils. Each layer serves a purpose in hydrating and protecting your skin. This ensures that your skin gets maximum benefit from each product. For example, applying serums before moisturizers can lock in hydration better.
Opt for a Rich Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is delicate and can become drier in colder months. Switching to a cream-based eye treatment can help hydrate and protect this area. Look for one with peptides or hyaluronic acid to plump and smooth fine lines. Use it morning and night for best results. That’s why a richer eye cream can make a noticeable difference in how your skin looks.
Switch to Creamy Body Lotions
Lightweight lotions may not cut it when the weather turns cooler. Opt for richer, cream-based body moisturizers instead. Look for ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin to deeply nourish your skin. Apply them after showering to lock in moisture. This keeps your skin soft and hydrated all day long, despite the dry air.
Choose Alcohol-Free Toners
Toners with alcohol can dry out your skin, especially in cooler weather. Switch to a hydrating toner with ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to soothe and replenish your skin. Use it after cleansing to restore moisture and balance your skin’s pH. This will prevent your skin from feeling tight or irritated. For example, using a hydrating toner can make your skin feel calm and refreshed.
Take Care of Your Hands
Hands tend to dry out quickly in cooler weather, especially with frequent washing. Use a thick hand cream with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or urea to keep them soft. Apply it after washing and before bed to prevent cracking and dryness. You can even wear cotton gloves overnight for extra hydration. That’s why investing in a rich hand cream is essential for colder months.
Add Niacinamide to Your Skincare Routine
Niacinamide is a great ingredient to add to your skincare routine during the cooler months. It helps to strengthen your skin’s barrier, reduce redness, and increase hydration. Use it in a serum or moisturizer for best results. This ingredient is gentle and works well for all skin types. That’s why it’s an effective addition to your fall skincare routine.
Use Healing Balms on Dry Spots
If you notice dry patches forming, a balm can help treat those areas. Balms with ingredients like beeswax or lanolin create a protective barrier over your skin. Apply them to particularly dry spots like elbows, knees, or around the nose. This will provide extra hydration and prevent further irritation. For example, using a balm on dry areas can help heal and soften the skin.
Add Vitamin C to Your Routine
Vitamin C can brighten your complexion and protect against environmental stressors, which are common in colder months. It also helps boost collagen production, keeping your skin firm and smooth. Use it in the morning under your moisturizer and sunscreen for maximum benefit. This will keep your skin glowing, even when the weather is dull. That’s why it’s a great antioxidant to add to your routine.
Limit Face Washing to Twice a Day
Washing your face too often can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to more dryness. Stick to cleansing your face once in the morning and once at night. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to maintain your skin’s moisture balance. Overwashing can cause your skin to become irritated or flaky. For example, limiting face washes will keep your skin feeling more balanced.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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