As cooler days settle in and the air grows crisp, your skin often feels the shift before you do. Dryness, irritation, and seasonal flare-ups are common in autumn, but with a few adjustments, you can keep your skin healthy throughout the entire season.
1. Upgrade Your Moisturizer
Fall is the time to swap lightweight summer lotions for richer, cream-based moisturizers. Look for ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or shea butter to help lock in hydration. Apply after showering, while your skin is still damp, to seal in moisture. Stick with fragrance-free options if you have eczema or sensitive skin.
2. Keep Using Sunscreen
Don’t pack away SPF with your swimsuits. UVA rays that cause premature aging and skin damage are present year-round. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily to your face, neck, and other exposed skin—and reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors. Moisturizers or makeup with built-in SPF make daily use easier.
3. Exfoliate with Care
Cooler air can leave skin dull as dead cells build up. Gentle exfoliation, once or twice a week, helps refresh your complexion and boosts the absorption of moisturizer. Choose mild scrubs or chemical exfoliants, such as lactic acid. Individuals with sensitive skin can opt for a washcloth or a soft sponge instead of harsher products.
4. Support Skin Through Lifestyle
Healthy routines make a difference. Stay hydrated, eat antioxidant-rich fall produce, and run a humidifier indoors to combat dry heated air. Prioritize rest and stress management to help your skin repair and stay balanced.
Need Extra Support This Season?
If dryness or irritation lingers, Dermatology Partners’ board-certified dermatologists can create a personalized plan to keep your skin glowing all fall.
