We are officially in the thick of fall! Now is a perfect time to think about switching to a skincare routine geared for the season. Colder weather brings wind and dry air to contend with. With drier air, your skin starts losing moisture at a rapid rate, causing sensitivity, irritation, and flakiness. Here are some tips to consider for a fall skincare regimen that will help keep your skin hydrated and smooth.
Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!
When the air outside is cold and dry, the water in your skin evaporates more quickly. Cold wind reduces the natural oils in your skin that protects you from irritation and sunburn. Replenish moisture and rehydrate by adding oil to your bath or shower routine to return much-needed moisture. Apply a body oil as well as a facial oil such as our Wildflower Ultralight Oil to your damp skin immediately after a bath or shower. Why directly after a shower? Because the humidity and warm water open up your pores, allowing them to drink in the oil.
And of course, don’t forget those lips. A little-known fact is that brands such as Chapstick, Carmex, and Eos dry out your lips more! So be wary of the brands you choose. We recommend Vaseline or Aquaphor for everyday moisturizer. If you’re someone who wants some color on your lips, our super moisturizing Advanced Mineral Lipstick is the perfect solution.
Read the fine print
Your fall skincare routine should include washing away all makeup and sunscreen every day with a gentle hydrating cleanser. Keep in mind that while you’ll be washing away the dirt and daily grime, you will be getting rid of all of the oils and sweat that have accumulated during the day as well.
Cleaning your face well will reopen your pores and prepare your skin to absorb your nighttime products. This allows you to heal overnight. Look for the keywords “hydrate” and “moisturize” on the label of your cleansing product. Read the ingredients list and avoid products with any drying ingredients such as isopropyl alcohol or sodium chloride. Two of our top picks for a hydrating nighttime cleanser is Eminence’s Lemon Cleanser and Cleanse by Osmosis.
Don’t forget the sunscreen!
While there are less direct UV rays in fall and winter, these rays will continue to reach any exposed skin. Unprotected skin causes wrinkles and gives you a higher risk for skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend using a daily sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to reapply it every 3-4 hours if you will be outdoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. for an extended period of time. This is especially critical if it is windy. Wind strips away some of the natural protective oils in your skin and can leave it prone to sunburn.
Our favorite daily sunscreen is Suntegrity’s face primer and sunscreen duo. With a non-greasy formula, it acts as a sun protectant and a makeup primer!
Humidify
Dry, cold air from the outdoors seeps inside your home as doors and windows are open and shut. Consider turning on a humidifier when you turn on your heater.
Cold air does not retain as much water vapor as warm air. That’s why the warm summer months are so humid and the winter months are so dry. Keep humidity at a constant level inside your home, between 30% and 50%, with an ideal level of 45%). Having the right moisture in the air will not only help keep your skin from drying out but can also help you avoid getting sick. Breathing dry air tends to dry out membranes, causing them to crack, and might even leave you vulnerable to viruses.
Say goodbye to dry, rough skin
Looking to up the ante? Consider adding facial treatments to your fall skincare regime. Though we recommend getting facials regularly throughout the entire year, the cold season is a particularly good time. Our signature Oxygen Hydration Infusion Treatments are just what dried-out skin is begging for.
The Oxygen Hydration Infusion Treatment is not just a facial. The powerful combination of pressurized oxygen and age-defying hyaluronic acid delivers dramatic results. The pressure of the oxygen helps the skin retain moisture and stay hydrated while also helps reduce fine lines.
We also love dermaplaning during the cold months. This rejuvenating form of exfoliation gently sloughs away dull, dead skin cells to reveal a smoother and brighter complexion. An added benefit of this treatment is that it removes stubborn “peach fuzz.” Most importantly, it also promotes the absorption of other skincare products you use at home, making them more useful.
Skincare from the inside out
With cold weather comes the anticipation of a busy holiday season. If the holidays are a stressful time for you, this not only affects your mood and energy level, but it can also have adverse effects on your skin. Having a plan is the best way to survive the busy holidays so that you can enjoy every moment.
Add a cherry on top of your regular skincare routine. Consider a facial or foot reflexology treatment. Reflexology can help relax the body and offset the effects of stress. It can also improve circulation and blood flow, giving your skin – and your smile – a healthful glow!
In a nutshell:
- Wash daily with a gentle cleanser.
- Apply oil after your bath or shower.
- Use sunscreen every day.
- Run a humidifier as needed.
Schedule a dermaplaning, facial, or reflexology treatment. We offer a variety of facial treatments and products at Swiss Clinique to meet your needs this fall season and throughout the year. If you are having trouble deciding which may be best for you, feel free to contact us!