How does the change in seasons affect your skin?

If you like to keep up with the calendar, you’ll know that this year, autumn started on the 22nd of September. Now, we’ve actually had a spell of relatively warm weather up until recently, so it’s not felt very autumnal. If this sudden drop in temperatures and the influx of wet and windy weather has your skin feeling irritated, dry, or even breaking out, you’re not alone! Seasonal changes can have a major effect on your skin, and understanding why can help you adapt your skincare routine for the colder months ahead. So here’s what you need to know!

What happens to your skin as the seasons change?

Basically, your skin can become more vulnerable as the temperatures change. The cold air outside, combined with the warmth of indoor heating, can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier. This barrier is essential for keeping moisture in and harmful elements out, and when it’s compromised, your skin may become more sensitive and prone to irritation. And the chances are, if you see seasonal skin irritation or breakouts, this is why.

You might also notice that wearing thick, woolly scarves and heavier clothing to stay warm can sometimes trap moisture and heat, leading to a different kind of irritation (the same way facemasks did in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic a few years ago). So, if you can choose something slightly more breathable, that can help.

Tips for healthy skin this season

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to skincare; with a few simple tweaks and tips, you can kick seasonal breakouts to the kerb for good! So, to help you along, we’ve put together eight tips to keep your skin glowing and healthy as we transition into autumn and winter:

Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is key here! Keeping your body hydrated helps maintain moisture levels in your skin, which stops it from drying out in the cold – which is especially important if you have drier skin!
Switch up your moisturiser. As the weather changes, don’t hesitate to reach for a thicker moisturiser. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides that help lock in moisture and strengthen your skin’s barrier, and don’t be afraid to layer it on!
Gentle cleansing. Choose a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid any harsh scrubs; you just want something that’s going to leave you feeling fresh without any other irritants like unnecessary scents especially if you have sensitive skin!
Exfoliate. Exfoliating with a gentle exfoliator like salicylic acid one to two times a week (adjust to your routine) can help remove dead skin cells from your face and neck, which can block moisture from reaching the deeper layers of your skin.
Layer wisely: While oversized woolly scarves are stylish and comfy, they can also trap sweat and irritants against your skin. Try to choose breathable fabrics to allow your skin to breathe when you can!
Use a humidifier: If the air in your home is particularly dry, investing in a humidifier can help add moisture back into the environment. These can also come in handy if you get a dry winter cough or cold!
Use SPF: That’s right! Rain or shine, summer or winter, SPF is important for your skin barrier, so don’t skip this step, layer it on just like any other day!
Pay attention to your skin: Listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to tweak your products or consult skincare professionals like us here at AP Smilecare.

We love the transition into the cosy seasons just as much as anyone else! It’s just while you’re pumpkin picking, turning on the heating or generally out and about this time of year, remember that your skin needs a little extra TLC!

And if you’re looking to give your skin an extra boost of radiance as we enter party season, all of our treatments are entirely tailored to every individual client. We use medical-grade ingredients and products to achieve powerful and long-lasting results. If you’d like to know more about any of our skincare products or book an appointment for skincare treatment like anti-wrinkle injections or lip fillers, call our friendly team on 01254 29 000, or pop into our clinic in Blackburn!