There’s something about fall that makes us want to pull out the cozy sweaters, light a candle, and settle into a new routine. But while you’re changing your wardrobe for the cooler months, don’t forget about your skin!
As temperatures drop and humidity changes, your skin may begin to feel drier, tighter, more sensitive, or simply different than it did during the summer. Fall is the perfect time to reassess your skincare routine and make sure your skin is prepared for the months ahead.
Here are some simple ways to give your skin the seasonal reset it deserves.
1. Give Your Skin a Little Extra Hydration
Cooler, drier air can contribute to moisture loss, leaving skin feeling tight, flaky, or uncomfortable. Indoor heating can add to the problem by creating a drier environment.
This is the time to pay attention to how your skin feels and consider whether your moisturizer is still providing enough hydration. Depending on your skin type, you may benefit from moving from a lightweight summer moisturizer to a richer cream or adding a hydrating serum to your routine.
Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides can help support hydrated, comfortable skin.
2. Don't Skip Your Cleanser... Just Be Gentle
Fall isn't the time to aggressively scrub away every bit of oil or dry skin.
A gentle cleanser can remove makeup, sunscreen, oil, and impurities without unnecessarily stripping the skin. Over-cleansing or using harsh products can leave your skin irritated and uncomfortable, particularly when it's already dealing with seasonal dryness.
If your skin feels tight immediately after cleansing, that's a good reason to reassess the cleanser you're using.
3. Don't Forget Your Exfoliation Routine
Exfoliation can be helpful for removing accumulated dead skin cells and keeping your complexion smooth, but more isn't always better.
If your skin is becoming dry or irritated as the weather changes, excessive exfoliation can make things worse. The goal is to maintain healthy skin—not scrub it into submission.
Your exfoliation schedule should be based on your individual skin type and needs.
4. Keep Using Sunscreen
One of the biggest skincare mistakes people make in the fall?
Assuming sunscreen is only necessary during summer.
UV exposure doesn't disappear when temperatures drop. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher as part of your daily sun-protection routine.
So yes, keep your SPF on the bathroom counter and keep using it!
5. Pay Attention to Your Lips, Hands & Body
Your face isn't the only skin that needs attention.
Fall weather can leave lips, hands, elbows, and other areas of the body feeling especially dry. Keep a nourishing lip balm and moisturizer nearby, and apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp after bathing to help lock in hydration.
And remember: very hot showers may feel wonderful on a chilly morning, but warm water is generally gentler on dry skin.
6. Don't Abandon Your Acne Routine
If you have acne-prone skin, fall isn't necessarily the time to stop your acne products simply because your skin feels drier.
Some acne treatments, including benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and topical retinoids, can contribute to dryness and irritation. A properly selected moisturizer can actually help acne-prone skin tolerate these treatments.
The key is finding the right balance between treating breakouts and supporting your skin barrier.
7. Consider a Seasonal Skin Consultation
Your skin doesn't necessarily need the same routine year-round.
Changes in weather, hormones, stress, lifestyle, and even the products you're using can affect how your skin behaves. Fall is a great time to take a closer look at your routine and determine whether your skin needs more hydration, different products, or a change in how frequently you're using certain ingredients.
At Esthetics By Kelly, skincare is never one-size-fits-all. Your routine should be built around your skin and its individual needs.
Your Fall Skin Checklist 🍂
Before you fully settle into pumpkin-spice season, make sure you've:
✓ Reassessed your moisturizer
✓ Added hydration where needed
✓ Kept exfoliation balanced
✓ Continued using SPF
✓ Switched to gentle cleansing if your skin feels dry
✓ Paid attention to your lips and body
✓ Adjusted acne treatments if irritation develops
✓ Considered whether your overall routine still fits your skin
Fall is the perfect time to slow down, take care of yourself, and give your skin a little extra attention.
Your skin changes with the seasons. Your skincare routine can, too. 💙