FALL SKIN CARE ROUTINE REFRESH, RESTORE + REBALANCE

With the changing of the seasons comes a change in the way our skin reacts to the outdoor elements. During the summer, depending on where you live, you might have had a lot of humidity in the air, which could have made your skin oilier. This year in particular, of course, we were all doing our part to defeat the pandemic by wearing face masks, which might have contributed to acne (or, more apropos, maskne). Now that most of the country is experiencing cooler, drier air, it is time to revamp your fall skin care routine in an effort to prep your skin for the months aheads. Here are some ways to successfully refresh, restore and rebalance your fall skin care routine during the cooler half of the year.

SWITCH YOUR FACIAL CLEANSER (MAYBE)

If you had oilier skin during the summer that dries out a bit once the humidity wanes, then you may need to switch up how you are cleaning your skin. While products that soaked up and prevented oil build-up are great in the summer, some people find that their skin becomes more sensitive and drier in the fall. Why?

It is a combination of cooler temperatures, lower humidity, wind, and artificial heat, which is very drying. Does your face feel tight and dry? Are you noticing dry patches on your cheeks or dullness on your forehead and nose? If so, it might be time to switch to a cleanser that is more moisturizing so it won’t strip the oils from your skin as much.

You might also want to tone back on the toner, which can be drying. Assess what your skin needs by paying attention to how it looks and feels. Also, remember to give any changes a few weeks to show any improvements; do not switch what you are doing each week, because that will make it less likely that you’ll find what is working.

CONTINUE USING DAILY SPF MOISTURIZER

In the summer, you know that you need to use a moisturizer with SPF 30, at least. Guess what? That requirement does not go away in the fall! Yes, the sun is less strong, but it can still do quite a bit of damage. And once the snow starts falling, which can happen in the fall in some places, the sun will reflect off the snow, making it even easier for you to get a sunburn. Do not let that happen to you. The moisturizer you were using in the summer might be too light, however.

While you should still look for something non-comedogenic that won’t clog your pores, you might need something a bit heavier. Again, buy a small bottle of your new moisturizer and try it for several weeks before declaring it a success or a failure. If it does not have SPF added to it, then you will need to buy a separate sunscreen. While you’re at it, apply sunscreen to the backs of your hands and any other body parts that are still exposed to sunlight.

PRIORITIZE YOUR OVERALL HEALTH, FROM THE INSIDE OUT

Fall is when the holiday fun starts happening. There are delicious seasonal foods that you have not had in a year and, if the safety regulations in your area permit it, family gatherings (albeit perhaps while wearing a mask or otherwise social distancing). It can be easy to get swept up in the season and overindulge on unhealthy foods, alcoholic beverages, and late nights. Remember that your skin will show off any transgressions, so try to keep them to a moderate level.

Yes, have the pumpkin pie, but also have some broccoli. Enjoy a nightcap, but make sure that you are also drinking plenty of water. And get to bed at a decent time most nights if you possibly can. Dehydration and a lack of sleep can wreak havoc on your skin. Do not let that happen; do what you can to keep up with your normal health routines even during a hectic holiday season.

REMEMBER PROPER MASK HYGIENE

Yes, you still need to wear a face mask to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. It is even more important now because chances are good that you are spending more time indoors than you were throughout the summer. Here are some pointers on keeping maskne at bay as you continue to keep yourself safe.

• WASH YOUR FACE BEFORE PUTTING ON YOUR MASK. Do not apply makeup under the mask, but do apply moisturizer.
• WASH YOUR HANDS BEFORE TOUCHING YOUR FACE. This is important all the time, but even more important when you are adjusting or moving your mask. Try not to touch it once it is on and in place.
• CHANGE OUT YOUR MASK OFTEN. It is often helpful to change it halfway through a work shift, for example. Every day, even if you only wore your mask for a half-hour while going in and out of stores, switch it out for a new one. And if it gets wet or dirty, change it immediately.
• WASH CLOTH MASKS PROPERLY. Use a non-scented, gentle detergent. Machine washing is best, but if it calls for handwashing, be sure to rinse it well to avoid leaving residue behind.
• CHANGE YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE WITH THE SEASONS

Fall skin care can be about having fun as much as it is about preventing acne and keeping your complexion looking and feeling good. Try a product with a new scent that you have wanted to try, for example. There are many different body washes that have amazing fall scents! Do not use these types of scented products on your face, however, unless they are specifically made for facial skin. If it is safe in your area, go for a facial and see if you like it.

You might also decide to switch up some of your makeup colors. Go for darker lipstick and eyeliner to make a dramatic appearance this fall. And do not forget to look for a lighter shade of foundation and concealer if you got a bit tan over the summer, as you do not want your makeup to be darker than your skin. Enjoy pampering your skin for the months ahead with fall skin care products and a little extra TLC.