Time to Upgrade Your Fall Skincare Regimen!

There’s so much to be excited about as we really get into the Fall season! Being a Cali native and still pretty new to the city, I definitely still get geeked out over actual season changes laughs to self. So, as the weather changes, so does our skin, unfortunately.

My friend from Korea has such beautiful skin and she recommends a whole host of skincare treatments from sites like kollectionk.com. But we all have different skin, so while her suggestion will probably be helpful, it might not solve all of my summer skin problems. This may be the same for many others because, during the summer, there’s much more humidity in the air. Our skin naturally retains this, but the decline in temperature and dryness in the air usually leads to a host of other problems, including loss of dermal moisture, a compromised skin barrier, and increased sensitivity. This is why switching up your skincare seasonally is essential! Here are few tips to help you tweak your routine to fortify against cooler temps and drier air.

Hydrate

Literally, there’s no such thing as over-hydrating your skin. People with especially sensitive skin should make it a priority to incorporate hydration serums, creams and essential oils to nourish the skin with collagen and elastin, and to help aid in the recovery process of conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Here some of my favorite products that promote barrier repair and hydration support: “Ceramidin Cream” by Dr. Jart ,$48, “Honey Potion” by Farmacy, $38, “Multi Molecular Hyaluronic Complex” by DECIEM, $35, “Tsubaki Oil” by Fourth Ray Beauty, $8, “Moisture Infusion Toner” by Renee Roleau, $42, and “Hydra-Repair Cream Masque” by Grown Alchemist, $69.

Switch to a Thicker Moisturizer

Due to changes in the weather and environment, adding moisture back into the skin is super crucial this time of year. Not only adding moisture, but also retaining it! One of my absolute favorite moisturizers is “Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA” by The Ordinary, $5.80. If you haven’t tried this moisturizer, it’s an absolute game changer! A no frills, occlusive surface hydrator, this moisturizer is formulated with amino acids, dermal lipids, and hyaluronic acid that offers immediate, non-greasy hydration, with lasting results. Don’t walk, but RUN to pick this up this Fall! If you can’t manage to get your hands on this cult fave, here are some other options that work just as well: “Toleraine Double Repair Moisturizer” by La Roche- Posay, $20, “Resist Barrier Repair Moisturizer” by Paula’s Choice, $28, “Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration” by First Aid Beauty, $12, “Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer” by BIOSSANCE, $52.

Chill on the Harsh Exfoliants!

It’s important this time of year to cut back on the use of harsh retinoids and chemical exfoliants; again due to the drop in temperature and rigid dry air. Usually in warmer months, exfoliating is encouraged more often, as the humidity in the air can usually buffer the irritating effects of the acid. Here are some of my favorite alternatives to harsh exfoliants: “Daily Microfoliant” by Dermalogica, $59, “Non-Acid Acid Pre-Cursor” by NIOD, $55, “Mandelic Acid 10% + HA” by The Ordinary $6.80, “Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant” by Paula’s Choice, $25.

Sunscreen! Yes, Still.

Yes, UV rays are definitely stronger in the summer months, however they’re still present all year round. Sunscreen should be used at all times because it generally helps to decrease absorbed UV radiation. When looking for a good sunscreen to incorporate into your routine, SPF 30 or above is ideal. I’m constantly alternating between these four: “Invisible Shield” by Glossier, $25, “Unseen Sunscreen” by Supergoop, $16, “UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50” by Biore, $8, “Hydro Boost Water Gel Sunscreen” by Neutrogena, $15.

Add Vitamin C Serum to Your Routine

Vitamin C works twice as hard during the colder months, and helps to combat UV rays that aren’t fully blocked by your sunscreen. It will also help to address hyperpigmentation, and boost collagen production, which can result in a brighter complexion. There’s SO many different types of Vitamin C serums on the market that all differ in potency, texture, price, etc. Here are some of my favorites: “Raydiate” by Fourth Ray Beauty, $15, “Ethylated Ascorbic Acid 15 %” by The Ordinary, $18, “Superfood Firm and Brighten Serum” by Youth To The People, $62.

Invest in a Humidifier

Boost the hydration in your home and your skin! By incorporating a humidifier at night you will help your skin to retain sufficient moisture levels. Here’s some great options: “Mistmate Cool Mist Humidifier” by Honeywell, $22, “Aqua Perfecter Humidifier” by Rowenta, $160, “AM 10 Humidifier” by Dyson, $250.