Should Your Skincare Routine Change with the Seasons?

Dermabright Aesthetics
Sep 22, 2024
4 min read

As the seasons change, you may notice your skin changes. Adapting your skincare routine to match the changing weather and surroundings can have a positive impact on how your skin looks. Should you update your skincare regimen for each season? Let's explore the skin changes that happen throughout the year and consider key ingredients that could be beneficial to incorporate into your routine.

Spring

Sun exposure- As the chilly air of winter fades away, the rise in humidity, temperature, and the exposure of sun has increased. SPF should be applied daylight and re-applied every 2-3 hours.

Seasonal allergies- Pollen counts rise during the spring, triggering allergies in many individuals. Conditions like eczema may flare up as a result, leading to itching, redness and inflammation.

Changes in Humidity- Fluctuating humidity may impact skin hydration levels. Low humidity can cause dry, flaky skin, while high humidity may worsen conditions like acne, fungal infections, and pigmentation conditions like melasma.

Summer

Sun exposure- With the increase in sun exposure you are at risk of skin cancer and accelerating the signs of ageing if you are not protecting your skin. This includes seeking shade, re-applying your SPF, wearing a hat and sunglasses.

Humidity- This combined with increased temperatures can cause you to sweat more, becoming more prone to breakouts. Keep cool with fans, and use clean towels when wiping sweat. Hypo21 Spray is also a great option to kill any bacteria from sweat if you are prone to breakouts.

Temperature- The increase in temperature and humidity can increase the sebaceous activity causing your skin to produce more oil, and dry skin appear rough and patchy. With the UV Rays and increased temperature you are also at risk of increased melanin, this is where pigmentation occurs or if you are already dealing with pigmentation conditions such as melasma this will exacerbate it. Remember to re apply your spf, and avoid excessive sun exposure.

Autumn

Allergy Season- Autumn is a peak season for allergies. Pollen, dust mites, and mold spores are more prevalent, which can trigger allergic reactions that appear on your skin. Common symptoms include redness, itching, and rashes.

Sun Exposure- Even though the days are shorter and the sun isn’t as intense, UV rays can still affect your skin. The lower sun angle can make UV exposure just as damaging, leading to potential sunspots and premature aging. Continue using sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin from harmful rays, no matter the season.

Skin Sensitivity- The transition from summer to autumn can make your skin more sensitive. This could be due to a combination of factors including cooler temperatures and the introduction of new skincare products. To avoid irritation, gradually introduce new products into your routine and opt for those formulated for sensitive skin.

Changes in Routine- With the back-to-school rush your daily routine might be changing. This can inadvertently affect your skin, especially if it means adjusting your diet, sleep patterns, or stress levels. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and focus on getting back into a healthy routine.

Winter

Big change in weather- Low temperature is accompanied by less humidity outdoors and dry environments produced by artificial heating and fires indoors. This temperature fluctuation plus the wind and other outdoor stressors can cause irritation and inflammation to your skin. To add to this, we have to add the fact that we drink less water in winter. This results in poorer skin hydration, leading to dry, tight and flaky skin. Keep your skin hydrated with emollients and drinking plenty of water, as well as keeping a humidifier in your living space to combat the dry air.

Change in routine/diet- Winter/ Christmas time is usually a busy time for all, we have a lot more celebrations with an increase of alcohol and eating healthy goes out the window. You will also notice as your routine is changing due to busy schedules, school holidays and late nights, this will overall affect your skin health, due to an increase in stress, poor eating and sleeping habits.

Key Ingredients for Every Season

Hyaluronic Acid

Known for its hydrating properties, hyaluronic acid is a powerhouse ingredient that can benefit all skin types. It retains moisture, plumping up the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines. This can be in your serums for example the Circadia Vitamin C Reversal Serum contains 3 different Molecular weights of Hyaluronic acid to reach all layers of your skin. Even in your moisturizer, when they contain emollients and humectants this will protect your skin barrier and keep it hydrated all year round.

Vitamin C

A potent antioxidant, vitamin C helps brighten the skin, fade dark spots, and protects against environmental damage. Incorporating a vitamin C serum into your routine can give your skin a healthy glow. Circadia's Reversal Serum contains Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate which is a very sable form of vitamin c meaning it wont oxidize and provide the benefits your skin needs.

Retinol

This form of vitamin A is excellent for combating signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Including a retinol treatment in your nighttime routine can improve skin texture and tone, and help to gently exfoliate by promoting cell turnover.

Sunscreen

A sunscreen is important for many reasons such as; reducing your risk of skin cancer and slowing down the signs of ageing. Your SPF should protect you from UVA and UVB Rays. It is also a bonus if it protects you from visible light, infrared and blue light, and contains antioxidants for that extra skin boost.

Consulting a Skin Specialist

If your skincare routine already includes many of these ingredients, using high-quality products with great formulations can make them suitable for year-round use. Instead of completely changing your routine, consider adding a hydrating mist or serum during colder months, as well as considering how your lifestyle affects your skin.

Although these tips offer a good starting point, it's important to remember that everyone's skin is unique. Seeking advice from a skin specialist or visiting a skin clinic can provide personalized recommendations that cater to your specific needs. A professional can evaluate your skin type, address any concerns, and suggest products that are most suitable for you.

Do you notice a difference in your skin throughout the seasons?