8 Dos and Don’ts for Fall Skincare
Now is a great time to clean out your bathroom cabinet and go on a search for the right products. Once this deed has been done, your regimen should take you through fall and winter, making it easier to satisfy your skins needs. Let these eight dos and don’ts be your guide when creating the ideal fall weather skincare regimen.
1. Do introduce moisturizing products into your autumn skincare regimen. Pair a lightweight daytime moisturizer with a richer nighttime formula to keep your skin comfortable when temperatures drop, or combine your everyday lotion with a moisturizing serum.
2. Don’t retire your sunscreen. Although you likely won’t be spending as much time outdoors, UV rays can still damage the skin and cause premature aging. Take a few minutes each morning to cover exposed areas - face, neck, décolletage and hands - with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15.
3. Do take some time to consider your skin’s specific needs before shopping for new products. Try introducing one new formula at a time and see how your skin reacts. Start by adding a more hydrating nighttime lotion, and if your skin still feels dry, move on to replacing your cleanser and day cream as well.
4. Don’t forgo moisturizing products because your skin is naturally on the oily side. Even oily and acne-prone skin gets drier in the winter. For combination skin, you can just use a moisturizer on the areas where your skin gets dry, like the cheeks.
5. Do invest in products you can use year-round. A moisturizer or serum with antioxidants is one item you’ll use every season, to protect skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, so it’s a worthwhile splurge - and a great way to nurture sun-damaged skin after summer is over.
6. Don’t let your skincare changes stop at facial skincare. The rest of your body - especially rough areas like the feet, elbows and knees - can become parched and dry as well. Lather up with a moisturizing and exfoliating body wash, and be sure to use a moisturizer just as you step out of the shower.
7. Do give your skin some TLC to repair summertime damage. Try taking a week off from any aggressive cleansers, scrubs or treatments and using a gentle cleanser, followed by emollients or natural oils to lock in moisture.
8. Don’t forget to nurture your skin when you’re out and about. Keep a few moisturizing essentials in your purse or bag, such as a rich, hydrating lip balm and some hand cream to prevent skin from becoming dehydrated.