We might not be ready for it, but autumn is basically here.
With the new season comes darker days, colder temperatures and more blustery conditions. So, you need to think about what your skin needs.
Summer skin needs different things to autumn skin. Autumn brings in the cooler weather and a drop in humidity, which can make skin drier, as we spend more time indoors central heating and radiators can dry skin out even more.
So, making subtle changes to your skincare regime as we transition between seasons is the smart thing to do.
It’s important to switch up your routine and use different products to keep your skin nourished and healthy – all year round.
We asked the experts to explain exactly how to do this as autumn draws in.
Choose a thicker moisturiser
‘During the summer months, most of us won’t need to use thick moisturisers or products that have a rich formula, opting instead for light, gel-like products that work better in warmer weather,’ says GlowBay’s in-house skincare expert and Obagi brand ambassador, Annabelle Bourne.
‘However, when the weather begins to cool down and the air is much more dry, it’s important to switch to heavier formulas like lotions and creams to prevent loss of moisture from the skin.’
Dr Lubna Khan-Salim, skincare expert and founder of timetobloom.uk, agrees on this front.
‘Say goodbye to the lighter weight serums and lotions, it’s time to use a heavier cream packed with ceramides which are the essential fatty acids that occur in the skin but need replenishing in the colder climate,’ says Dr Lubna.
‘They serve as a great support to your barrier function to prevent dryness and irritation. Options include Cera Ve Moisturising Lotion.’
Change your cleansing routine
‘Naturally dry and sensitive skin types are less resistant to cold temperatures than other skin types, and therefore they need special care during the autumn and winter months,’ says Annabelle.
‘For these skin types, using the same cleanser you used in summer can cause irritation and flakiness when the weather is colder. Instead, choose sulphate-free, gentle, pH-balanced cleansers which are the perfect choice to combat winter-related dryness and sensitivity.’
Annabelle suggests the DermaQuest Delicate Cleansing Cream, which she says restores skin’s lost hydration and moisture balance to protect delicate skin from the elements.
‘Neodermyl, the needle-free collagen and elastin booster, leaves skin looking firmer and smoother after continued use so it is important to keep up a consistent skincare routine,’ she adds.
Add a body lotion
Skincare isn’t just about what’s on your face, and that is even more true in autumn.
‘As the body’s largest organ, it’s important to think of your skincare routine in a top-toe approach,’ says Dr Lubna.
‘Load up on hydration by ensuring you provide a protective barrier over all your skin to prevent itchiness and dryness.
‘I suggest La Roche Posay Lipikar AP+ Body Cream.’
Get a professional skin assessment
We all know that our skin is the largest organ in our body, and Annabelle says, it constantly undergoes changes prompted by both internal and external factors.
‘A professional skin assessment, performed by a trained skincare specialist, is a crucial part of your skincare routine, especially when the seasons change to ensure your skin health is taken care of,’ she suggests.
‘A tailored assessment helps you to choose the skincare products that are right for your skin and its current condition.’
Autumn brings in the cooler weather and a drop in humidity which can make skin drier, as we spend more time indoors central heating and radiators can dry skin out even more.
Try gentle exfoliation
A little scrub can go a long way. Dr Lubna says adding some light exfoliation to your skincare regime can make a big difference.
‘Summer skin can build up pigmentation and your skin is prone to creating more oil which can mean more congestion, exfoliation is key to combat this but go gentle,’ she says.
‘I am a big fan of non-physical methods such as using lactic or glycolic acids toners to gently exfoliate the top layers whilst also tightening skin and pores.
‘Exfoliation is a tricky subject as it’s very easy to over-do it, which can create barrier function problems leading to more loss of hydration and inflammation.
‘Go easy on the acids and retinols, you will know if you are going too harsh if your skin is continually inflamed, irritated and itchy – if this happens cut right back and use no more that once a week or less until your skin feels comfortable again.’
Invest in a humidifer
Central heating is sadly a necessity in autumn. While it keeps us toasty and warm, it could be causing chaos for our skin.
‘The dry heat of home and workplace central heating can wreak havoc on skin barrier function,’ says Dr Lubna. ‘So a humidifier is a great way of adding moisture to the air.’
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