As the weather outside starts to get colder and our central heating kicks into play inside our homes and workplaces we will notice changes to our skin. The combination of lower external temperatures, howling winds and artificial dry heat at home can result in skin feeling dry, parched and sensitive.
Transitioning into Autumn can see many of us turning to more comforting food, reaching for cozy blankets and soft clothing. Our skin may be crying out for the same comfortable feeling. The skincare routine we had during the summer months may no longer be cutting it. Our Autumn skincare helps us to repair from the summer and prepare for the winter.
With just a few little tweaks we can add moisture and hydration back into our skin. Moisture that is being sucked out by these seasonal changes.
Layer your skin care much like you would layer your clothes
But don't overload it. You'll just be wasting product which is sitting on the surface of the skin, clogging pores and creating spots. Less is definitely more. So look at and feel your skin. If it is absorbing what you are applying and still feels dry or uncomfortable apply a little bit more. As a general rule apply in order of thinnest to thickest textures.
Don't over cleanse
The cleanser you were using during the summer might be too harsh for your changing skin come autumn. Opt for gentler balms, oils and milks instead.
Introduce ceramide capsules
Ceramides are lipids that bind the top layers of the skin together so that it can retain water and protect from irritants. During these colder months the skin finds it harder to hold on to water. This results in drier and more sensitised skin due to its protective layer being compromised. Ceramide capsules increase ceramide production. Apply to your face under an oil or moisturiser. There are also lots of creams that contain ceramides too. Such a hero ingredient at this time of year.
Up your moisturiser
If your skin is feeling tight by lunch time change your moisturiser for a richer formula. Chances are your summer moisturiser isn't nourishing your skin enough now.
Replace traditional face masks with overnight face masks
If you normally use a mask that you leave on the skin for ten to fifteen minutes before removing, replace it with an overnight mask. These are specifically designed to drip feed the skin whilst you sleep and can really pack a punch. The good ones will have you noticing your skin feeling more comfortable and plumper when you wake. I apply mine about an hour before bed so that my face doesn't stick to my pillow! Then I cleanse in the normal way when I wake up. If you have oily skin apply a clay mask first, leave on for the allotted time, remove and then apply a hydrating overnight mask. Add this step to your evening routine a couple of times a week.
Lip care
Apply a lip mask before bed and try to remember to apply lip balm throughout the day rather than just lip stick or gloss which may dry out the lips.
Sun cream is still a must
Even though the weather may not be hot and sunny an SPF is crucial because the suns harmful rays can still penetrate clouds. So to lower our risk of cancer and sun damage slap on a facial specific broad spectrum factor 50 every day.
Don't forget your body
Continue to body brush (gently) and choose body moisturisers that contain AHAs. These are built in exfoliators which dissolve the glue that hold dry dead skin cells together. You won't feel any grains in these so it's like applying your normal body moisturiser but they will leave skin super soft and moisturised. There is a tendency to forget about the skin on our body during these colder months. Warmer seasons see us applying sun cream and moisturisers which help to keep skin hydrated. But if we are now starting to cover up with jumpers and tights etc. our bodies can become neglected leading to dry, scaly, itchy skin.
Treat your hair too!
Applying a hair mask once a week will certainly combat dryness. These are usually applied to wet hair and left for fifteen to twenty minutes before washing off. Whilst doing their magic, you can get on with other things.
Supplements
Omega 3 oils will feed the skin from the inside out and a Vitamin D supplement will combat a deficiency which many of us may have during these darker months. But as always, consult a health practitioner before taking.
Think of these tips like a big comforting hug for your skin.
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