10 Fall Skin Care Tips

The leaves are changing colors, the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air, and it’s time to start preparing for winter. Along with your wardrobe, it’s important to change up your skincare to fit your seasonal needs. Here are a few ways you can take care of your skin throughout the fall for a glowing, healthy complexion.

1. Avoid hot water

Hot showers and baths can dry out the skin. Switch to warm or lukewarm temperatures in the shower for healthier, moisturized skin all winter long. You may also consider applying a layer of non-comedogenic oil on top of your usual moisturizer before you get into bed at night (when the air can be especially cold and dry). A layer of oil can trap hydration from your moisturizer and help lock it into your skin all night long – just remember to cleanse first thing in the morning.

2. Add moisture to your diet

Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and what you put into it can have far-reaching effects. Eating foods that contain healthy fats like avocado or olive oil will help keep skin hydrated from within for glowing results. If avocados aren’t an option, consider applying a layer of avocado oil over your moisturizer or after bathing for similar results (unless your skin is acne-prone, of course).

3. Incorporate an exfoliator into your routine

As the skin begins to produce less oil during the fall and winter months, dead cells can build up on the skin’s surface. While some over-the-counter scrubs are very harsh on delicate facial tissue, using a soft silicone skin-scrubbing pad can be gentler on the skin. Also, consider trying a chemical exfoliator like glycolic acid or salicylic acid instead.

4. Don’t neglect your lips

Lips are often overlooked in skincare routines, but they can be especially dry in the winter and need to be exfoliated just like the rest of the face. For simple at-home lip care, try gently applying a homemade lip scrub of your favorite oil and sugar. Rinse with warm water and apply a thick lip balm like lanolin or Aquaphor to trap moisture – and make sure to apply balm before bed, too!

5. Add a sheet mask to your routine

Sheet masks are all the rage right now, and with good reason. They help increase moisture by up to 500% after use! While you can find pre-made masks at most drugstores, they may contain harsh chemicals, so consult your skincare specialist on the best ones for you. When it doubt, look for hydrating masks with hyaluronic acid. Additionally, be wary of homemade mask recipes – these can be very damaging to your skin.

6. Embrace oil cleansing

If you have combination skin, chances are your t-zone is oily, and dry patches appear on other parts of your face. This can result in acne breakouts that leave scars behind as they heal. The oil cleansing method uses gentle oils like hemp seed or jojoba to remove impurities without stripping away too many natural oils. It’s especially helpful in treating acne and minimizing scars left behind by blemishes. If you regularly wear makeup, it can come with the benefit of removing foundation or concealer left behind after removal. Make sure to avoid makeup cleaning wipes and consider switching to a cleansing, oil-based balm instead.

7. Give your skin a break

The constant change of seasons can leave you with dry, flaky skin that looks dull and lifeless. Take this time to switch up your routine by purging all harsh chemicals or drying ingredients like alcohol. You may also consider using an exfoliating mask once per week for deep cleaning without over-drying. If it seems like your skin is struggling, stop using extra products and focus on using a gentle cleanser with plenty of moisturizers.

8. Use a humidifier

While most people think of dry air as something that affects the lungs, it can also wreak havoc on your skin. Dry air can result in redness and irritation around the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as overall flakiness and cracked, dry skin. Using a humidifier at night while you sleep can minimize these effects and help you wake up with a more hydrated, healthy complexion. Just make sure to clean your humidifier regularly to prevent harmful bacteria growth.

9. Don’t neglect your feet

It can be easy to forget about the skin on our feet, but it’s important to keep them moisturized and healthy. Try a simple foot mask of an emollient and humectant moisturizer on your feet before bed and put on a pair of light cotton socks. The next morning, you should have noticeably softer skin.

10. Stay hydrated

One of the most important things you can do for your skin is to drink plenty of water. Not only will it help keep your under-eye area looking bright and youthful, but drinking enough water each day will also make sure that all other skincare products are being absorbed fully into the skin where they need to be. If drinking water is a constant struggle, consider adding some herbal tea or lemon to make it more flavorful.

Schedule an Appointment

Need help getting your skin ready for winter? Our skincare specialists can recommend the best in physician-grade products and treatments for your best skin yet. To meet with our team, contact our Gulfport office by calling or filling out our online form.