Even here in Southern California, summer shows signs of fading away as we start to feel a hint of cooler weather. Most people have their own reason to be excited at the change of season. For many, Halloween is a favorite holiday. Others look forward to chillier evenings and making soups! As the weather changes, the way our skin reacts to the new temperature does too. Summer is more humid which helps our skin retain moisture and protect its natural barrier. But as the weather cools, the air gets drier both outside and inside. When skin loses moisture, its barrier is less effective, leading to increased sensitivity, dryness, and irritation. Changing your skincare routine to adjust for the environmental conditions is essential to maintaining healthy skin.

Transition your skin from hot and humid to cool and dry with these dermatologist-backed tips.

Swap your gel or foaming cleanser for cream cleanser
With drier weather you have to circle the wagons in terms of skin’s moisture. Cream cleansers are gentler on skin than gel or foaming cleansers and they have moisture built right in!

Switch to a thicker moisturizer
Because of environmental changes, switching to a thicker night time moisturizer is important, in order to compensate. Look for a hydrating product that is non-irritating and non-clogging.

Give your lips and eyes a little extra TLC
If lip moisturizer and eye cream weren’t already part of your skincare routine, they should be during the cooler months.

Exfoliate differently and less often
With less humidity, you’ll want to be more thoughtful with exfoliation and any kind of retinoid product. Some recommend switching to a chemical exfoliant rather than a physical one. Chemical exfoliants use alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, or enzymes to gently dissolve the top layer of dead skin and wash it away.

Continue using sunscreen!
While UV radiation is greater during the summertime, it’s still present the rest of the year, too. Stick with at least a 30 SPF daily.

Add Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps to even out skin pigmentation and boost collagen production giving you a brighter complexion. It also gives you some sun protection!

Stay hydrated
A truth year-round: one of the most important things you can do for your skin, no matter the season, is to stay hydrated! When your body is getting enough water, everything just works better. Your skin will thank you.

Use a humidifier!
Utilizing a humidifier during the fall and winter months (better yet, year round!) to boost hydration in your skin’s environment. It’s also great to run it in your bedroom every night while you sleep.

Bliss on Broadway offers customized facials as well as other full service treatments for your skin, body and mind. Call us at 562-439-4333. http://www.blissonbroadway.com/