Autumn Skincare: How to Protect and Nourish Your Skin as the Seasons Change

As summer transitions into autumn, the change in seasons brings with it more than just cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. For our skin, this shift marks a crucial period of adaptation. The sunny, humid days of summer give way to crisp air and harsher weather conditions, which can significantly affect our skin’s health and appearance. Adjusting your skincare routine for the autumn months is essential to maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion throughout the colder season.

How Autumn Affects Our Skin

The onset of autumn introduces a range of environmental stressors that can negatively impact all skin types. As the air becomes drier and temperatures drop, the skin’s moisture levels tend to decrease, leading to increased dryness and dehydration. This is particularly true when indoor heating systems start running, further stripping the air of moisture and exacerbating dryness.

For those with sensitive skin, autumn can be a challenging time. The combination of colder air and wind can trigger irritation, inflammation and redness. Sensitive skin is also more prone to react to environmental changes, making it more likely to become inflamed or develop conditions such as rosacea during the autumn months.

Individuals suffering from skin conditions like eczema often find their symptoms worsening as the weather cools. Eczema, characterised by dry, itchy patches of skin, thrives in environments where moisture levels are low. The reduced humidity of autumn can lead to flare-ups, making it essential to take preventive measures.

While it might seem counterintuitive, those with oily skin may also struggle during autumn. The drier air can lead to an overproduction of sebum, the skin’s natural oil, as it attempts to compensate for the lack of moisture. This can result in an increase in breakouts and clogged pores, making it necessary to address these issues with appropriate skincare products.

Tips for Taking Care of Skin in Autumn

Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise

One of the most crucial steps in an autumn skincare routine is ensuring that your skin remains adequately hydrated. Moisturizers that contain fatty acids and emollients should be at the top of your ingredient list. Fatty acids help to maintain the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss, while emollients soften and smooth the skin’s surface, providing an added layer of protection against the elements.

Thick moisturizer

As the air becomes drier, it’s wise to switch from a lightweight summer moisturizer to one with a thicker, more nourishing texture. A heavier cream will help to lock in moisture and shield your skin from the cold, dry air.

You may want to check out Purito Dermide Relief Barrier Moisturizer or Etude House Soon Jung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream for skin in need of extra care. 

Serums & treatments

In addition to a good moisturizer, consider incorporating hydrating treatments such as serums, ampoules or boosters into your routine. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol are particularly beneficial. Ceramides are lipids that help to restore the skin’s barrier and retain moisture, while hyaluronic acid attracts and binds water to the skin, providing a plump, hydrated appearance. Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is a humectant that helps the skin to retain moisture, promoting softness and elasticity.

We recommend:

Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Water Essence

By Wishtrend Blue Oasis Aloe Hydrating Serum

Overnight masks

Using overnight nourishing masks is another excellent way to maintain hydration during autumn. These masks work while you sleep, allowing your skin to absorb the moisture and nutrients it needs to stay plump and nourished. Waking up to a soft, glowing complexion is a rewarding start to your day. For example, the iUNIK Propolis Vitamin Sleeping Mask and the COSRX Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask are two great options that provide deep hydration and nourishment overnight.

It’s Vitamin C O’clock

Autumn is the perfect time to repair any damage your skin may have sustained during the summer months. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to dark spots and hyperpigmentation, leaving your complexion looking dull and uneven. Introducing a Vitamin C treatment into your skincare routine can be highly effective in addressing these issues.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that not only helps to fade dark spots and brighten the complexion, but also protects the skin from further damage by neutralizing free radicals. It’s a versatile ingredient that can rejuvenate the skin, leaving it looking more radiant and youthful. Moreover, Vitamin C can help to boost collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Our recommendations: Purito Pure Vitamin C Serum, I'm From Vitamin Fruit Serum

Every Day is an SPF Day

As summer fades, it can be tempting to put sunscreen aside, but this would be a mistake. Damaging UV rays are present year-round, even on cloudy autumn days. Continued use of sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 is crucial to slowing the appearance of aging signs and protecting your skin from free radical damage.

Applying sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather, helps to prevent premature aging and reduces the risk of developing skin cancer. Make sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and apply it as the final step in your morning skincare routine.

Check out these lightweight sunscreen options, which can be used under make up: 

Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF50+ PA++++)

Dear, Klairs All-day Airy Sunscreen

Lip Protection

The skin on our lips is delicate and particularly susceptible to the harsh autumn weather. Exposure to cold air and wind can leave lips dry, chapped, and uncomfortable. To protect your lips, consider using a thick, moisturizing lip balm or lipstick that forms a protective barrier against the elements. Look for products that contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and natural oils to keep your lips soft and hydrated.

Don’t Forget About the Body

While facial skincare often takes center stage, it’s important not to neglect the skin on the rest of your body. The drier weather can significantly affect the condition of your skin from head to toe. Consider using a body moisturizer that contains ceramides and fatty acids to provide extra protection during the colder months. Applying body lotion once or twice daily, depending on your skin’s needs, will help to keep it soft, supple, and resilient.

Be Gentle and Caring

Autumn is a time to be especially gentle with your skin. Long, hot showers might feel comforting as the weather cools, but they can be harmful, stripping your skin of its natural oils and leading to further dryness and irritation. Opt for shorter, lukewarm showers instead and always follow up with a good moisturizer to lock in hydration.

Avoid using skincare products that contain harsh, skin-stripping ingredients such as drying alcohols and fragrances. These can compromise the skin’s protective barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritation and moisture loss. Instead, choose gentle, hydrating products that support the skin’s natural functions.

Finally, maintaining a healthy diet is just as important for your skin as the products you apply. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats provides your skin with the essential nutrients it needs to stay healthy and glowing. Hydration is also key, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

In conclusion, autumn is a season of change, and your skincare routine should evolve with it. By understanding how the season affects your skin and taking proactive steps to protect and nourish it, you can enjoy a healthy, radiant complexion all year round.