Get Your Skin Autumn-Proofed!
And just like that, we are now entering the 4th quarter of the year. Just as seasons change, our skin also changes with it. I get it, you were so proud of yourself for *finally* figuring out the skincare routine that works for your skin only for it to suddenly not work anymore. And now you feel lost and confused. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. And I gotcha, boo.
You do not have to overhaul your whole skincare game to get it to work again. You just need a few tweaks here and there to achieve that no-filter needed skin once again.
It is important to remember that our environment plays a big role in determining the condition of our skin, among many other factors. And during autumn, as temperatures go down, the humidity tends to drop resulting in drier air. This leads to less moisture available for our skin as well. You would notice your skin tends to become dry, dull and itchy and sun spots start to show and patches of irritation also are common during the colder season. Flare- ups of chronic conditions like eczema are also very common during this time for the same reason.
Here are a few things you can do to keep your skin glowing throughout autumn.
1. Sunscreen.
Yes. Even though the temperature is cooler and the days are shorter, it is still very important to keep up your SPF game. UV rays can still do much damage to your skin in as little as few minutes of exposures. So even if you are only out walking your dog, or going for a quick grocery run, slap on that sunscreen. Wear a hat, or a UV blocking jacket. Protecting your skin from the sun prevents the appearance of sun spots and early signs of aging. It is way much easier to prevent it than to have to undo it. To make your sunscreen work more efficiently, partner it up with a Vitamin C serum to maximise your protection.
2. Focus on Hydration.
I know I sound like a broken record, but hydration really is key. Especially in this season where the air is so much drier. We are more likely to lose moisture from our skin in this conditions so it is important to top it up. Ensure your skincare is rich in glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe. These are very good to keep your skin healthy and plump. Avoid stripping cleansers, and opt for ones that are hydrating and won’t leave your skin feeling tight, like this one. Follow it up with a refreshing toner to keep the skin fresh. Top up as you need during the day, too. Don’t forget to lock all that moisture in with a good moisturiser that not only keeps the water in, but also provides the skin with more hydrators.
3. Exfoliate with caution.
Yes, we need to focus on hydration and keeping our skin barrier healthy. However, exfoliation is still needed as the drier temperature tends to cause build up of dead skin cells on the surface of our skin. This then traps the oils underneath our skin, thus making the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. But again, because the skin tends to be a lot drier this time of the year, it is important to go in with a gentle exfoliant, like this Vitamin C Scrub. This will allow your skin to breathe, and let healing and building your skin barrier begin.
4. Exercise.
Exercising is a good way of getting rid of toxins in our body. Sweat provides a natural way of releasing toxins. It is also a good moisturiser for the body. Exercise also improves blood circulation, which means more oxygen and nutrients are delivered to your skin. This helps improve skin function and appearance by better collagen production and promoting new skin cells. Studies also show that exercise reduces stress, and we all know the stress is not our skin’s friend.
5. Don’t Panic.
Despite all efforts, a spot or two will make an appearance. The transition from summer to autumn can be harsh on the skin. But there is no need to overdo on actives. Instead, treat your skin to a great clay face mask. This will give your skin a detox; pulling out toxins that cause breakouts while also giving your skin some love. Do this a couple of times a week to keep the breakouts at bay and soothe irritation that may come with the cold weather.