A Seasonal Shift: Preparing Your Skin for a Change in Seasons

Just as you change your wardrobe for the seasons, your skin's needs also change with the weather. The skin is a dynamic organ, constantly adapting to its environment. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can directly impact its delicate barrier function, leading to a host of issues, from unexpected breakouts to uncomfortable dryness. As an integrative medicine expert, I believe in a proactive approach: by preparing your skincare routine for a seasonal shift, you can maintain your skin’s health and resilience year-round.

From Summer to Fall: Transitioning to Drier Air

The transition from the humid warmth of summer to the cooler, drier air of fall is one of the most common causes of skin disruption. The air pulls moisture from your skin, which can leave it feeling tight, flaky, and sensitive. Your summer routine, which might have been focused on oil control, will no longer be adequate.

• Swap Your Cleanser: Trade your light, foaming cleanser for a richer, more hydrating cream or oil-based cleanser. This will cleanse your skin without stripping it of its essential moisture.

• Introduce Hydrating Layers: Add a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to your routine. This will help your skin hold onto moisture.

• Embrace Richer Moisturizers: Move away from lightweight lotions and towards more emollient-rich creams or balms that will provide a stronger barrier against the cold air.

From Winter to Spring: Lightening Up

As the cold, dry air of winter gives way to the warmth and humidity of spring, your skin’s needs will shift again. The heavy moisturizers you relied on might now feel too heavy, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. This is the time to streamline your routine.

• Reintroduce Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation can help shed the build-up of dead, dry skin from winter. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant once or twice a week to reveal a brighter complexion.

• Lighten Your Moisturizer: Switch to a lighter, gel-based moisturizer that provides hydration without feeling occlusive. Your skin will appreciate the change as the humidity rises.

The All-Season Rule: Hydration and Protection

Regardless of the season, two aspects of your routine should remain constant: hydration and sun protection.

• Hydration: Your body needs consistent water intake to function optimally, and this is directly reflected in your skin's health. Your skin also needs topical hydration. A quality hydrating serum can be a year-round staple.

• Sun Protection: The sun's UV rays are present and damaging in every season. Even on a cloudy winter day, UV radiation can penetrate the clouds and harm your skin. Applying broad-spectrum SPF daily is non-negotiable for long-term skin health.

By being mindful of these seasonal shifts, you can support your skin’s natural resilience and maintain a healthy, vibrant complexion throughout the year.

Citations

1. Barel, A. O., Paye, M., & Maibach, H. I. (2014). Handbook of Cosmetic Science and Technology (4th ed.). CRC Press.

2. Zou, R., et al. (2019). Seasonal changes in skin hydration and transepidermal water loss in different age groups. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 44(8), 896-902.

3. American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Dermatologists' tips for healthy winter skin. Retrieved from AAD Website.

Article by: Dahlia Kelada MSHS-INTM, SALVE Founder/CEO, Integrative Medicine Educator, Cosmetic Formulator