Ok ok, I know us Brits have been crying out for a 'proper' summer over the last few months which has been cruelly met with what's felt like the world dangling a warm, sunny, glistening carrot in front of our faces on the occasional summers day; only to be quickly ripped away and replaced with grey skies, rain and colder temperatures. Having said that, I am officially ready to succumb to all things pumpkin spice, chunky knits, cosy candles, thick blankets etc etc. It's time to embrace the BER months. But, as the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, it's important we pay attention to how the shift in seasons affects our skin. The transition from summer to autumn and winter can be significant, and your skincare routine should evolve alongside to keep it glowing and healthy all year round. 

So, how does your skin change alongside the seasons? 

☀️Summer: Dehydrated and Oily 

During the warmer months, your skin is often exposed to more sun, humidity, and heat (I say 'often' lightly there... I guess it depends where you are in the world because little ol' St Albans certainly didn't get too much of that exposure...). Nonetheless. these factors can lead to increased oil production, enlarged pores, and the occasional breakout. While the summer sun can give you that sun-kissed glow, it can also lead to dehydration from excessive sweating and sun exposure. 

❄️Autumn/Winter: Dry and Sensitive 

As temperatures drop, so does humidity (thankfully). However, this drop can lead to dryness, flakiness, and increased sensitivity. The cold air can strip the moisture from your skin, making it feel tight and uncomfortable. Not only that, when the inevitable time comes where you submit and turn that dial a few notches to the left, your indoor heating can exacerbate dryness, leaving your skin crying out for some deeper hydration. 

Adjusting Your Skincare Routine 

1. Switch to a Gentle Cleanser 

In the summer, you might rely on foaming cleansers to combat oiliness, but as the weather cools you may look to switch to a cream or oil-based cleanser that gently removes impurities without stripping your skin's natural moisture. Look for ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to help maintain that much sought after hydration in the colder months. 

2. ExfoliateWisely 

While regular exfoliation is important year-round, be a little more cautious in autumn and winter. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and ultimately more dryness - counterproductive to the hydration we're trying to achieve! Instead, opt for a mild chemical exfoliant (like lactic acid) 1-2 times per week to continue promoting cell turnover but without compromising your skin’s barrier. 

3. Hydrate, Hydrate (and, if I haven't said it already) H Y D R A T E 

Boost your hydration game with a richer moisturiser, looking for formulations that contain nourishing ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, or squalane. These ingredients help to really lock in the moisture and strengthen your skins barrier, protecting against the harsh elements of colder weather and limiting the skin sensitivity that comes with it. 

4. Don’t Forget the SPF 

Yep, don't mind me still going on about the importance of SPF... but it's worth noting that even as the sun seems less intense or present, UV rays can still harm your skin in the BER months. Try to incorporate a broad-spectrum sunscreen into your daily routine, even on cloudy days. Consider a moisturizer with SPF to simplify your routine - we love a good 2-in-1! 

5. Add a Hydrating Serum 

If you're someone that feels like a little extra moisture wouldn't go amiss, incorporate a hydrating serum into your routine. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin and apply this before your moisturizer for optimal absorption. 

6. Nourish from Within 

Remember that skincare isn’t just about what you put on your face. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consider incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and walnuts (or, perhaps some chestnuts roasting on an open fire... or is it still too early for that?) to help support your skin’s barrier function. 

7. Listen to Your Skin 

Lastly, be attuned to how your skin feels. It may require different products or routines on particularly dry days versus milder ones. Adjust your routine accordingly and don't hesitate to experiment with new products until you find what works best for you! There's no avoiding it, as the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. But by understanding how your skin reacts to different weather conditions and adjusting your products accordingly, you can maintain a healthy, radiant complexion all year round - regardless of the whiplash the great English weather gives you. Embrace the beauty of the colder months by nurturing your skin and keeping it hydrated, soft, and glowing. For more personalised recommendations or to explore the products that I love and use all year round, get in touch and I can help tailor something specifically to you! 

Happy transitioning! ✨