Did you know that your skin has different needs depending on the season? As warm summer nights make way for shorter, chillier days, the drop in humidity can lead to drier air – and drier skin. Don’t despair, because a few small tweaks to your routine can help keep your skin soft, supple and smooth.
Tips for keeping skin healthy in the autumn
“The colder weather can wreak havoc on our skin as the air is much drier and harsher, so it may be necessary to tweak your skincare routine to ensure your skin is healthy and glowing,” says Ridah Syed, Senior Medical Aesthetician at Skinfluencer.
“Include hyaluronic acid in your skincare routine as it is brilliant at hydrating and re-plumping the skin and invest in a good-quality moisturiser suited to your skin type. Also, ensure that you are drinking at least two litres of water each day – it is often harder to do in the colder months, but it is essential as exposure to central heating can dehydrate the skin,” Ridah continues.
Dr. Saurabh Singh, a medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatologist, agrees that staying hydrated is really important. “As the weather becomes cooler, it’s important to keep your skin hydrated. Many people will upgrade to a heavier emollient or moisturiser and/or use a humidifier in their bedroom. Shorter showers are also a good idea,” he says.
Another thing to keep in mind as summer draws to a close is that you may have some sun damage or pigmentation from your holidays. “Exfoliate your skin a few times a week to ensure the removal of the dead skin cells and that skin stays soft and supple,” Ridah recommends.
If it’s a possibility for you, consider getting a facial or spending a day at a spa to rejuvenate your skin. If that doesn’t seem like something you want or can do, a DIY facemask from your local supermarket and a zen playlist is a good and affordable alternative.
Are cold sores more common in the autumn?
“Although the cold sore virus lies dormant in the nerve ganglia located behind the cheekbone, it is sensitive to changes in the environment. Changes in temperature such as going from cold outdoor weather to warm indoor homes can trigger the virus. During colder seasons, lips are likely to be dry and chapped and this compromises the skin’s barrier function, allowing HSV (the virus responsible for cold sores) to replicate. This coupled with our weakened autumnal immune system (less daylight hours means less vitamin D) can trigger an outbreak.” Ridah says.
To try and avoid the adverse effects of the cold, remember to dress warmly, apply lip balm, drink plenty of liquids and try to avoid the worst of the weather. If you do experience a cold sore breakout, Compeed® Cold Sore Patches contain hydrocolloid active gel technology for fast healing and scab reduction. These discreet patches also protect the cold sore from the elements and can reduce their appearance.
How do you keep your skin from drying out in the autumn?
“Wash with lukewarm water, not hot. Washing with hot water removes natural oils from the skin and can cause the skin to become drier. Use moisturisers that have ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which are effective at trapping water in the skin and apply these right after you towel dry your body as this will really lock in the moisture. Also, consider investing in a humidifier to ensure your environment is as friendly to your skin as possible,” says Ridah.
General tips to keep your skin healthy during the autumn
We know we’ve thrown a lot of information at you and you may want a recap and some more general tips on things you can do to keep your skin healthy in the autumn!
If so, look below.
- Moisturise your skin before bed. Your cells go into ‘rest and repair’ mode while you sleep, so take advantage and elevate your beauty sleep!
- Dress warmly, avoid extreme weather and use your lip balm.
- Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can make your skin appear dull, increase wrinkles and make any type of skin – from oily to dry – look worse for wear.
- Exfoliate once a week. This can help remove dead skin cells to keep your skin looking fresh.
- Avoid long, boiling showers. Whilst they can feel wonderful on a cold autumn day, long hot showers can strip your skin of its moisture and essential oils. Try a shorter, warm but not boiling shower – you’ll also save water!
- Invest in a humidifier. Not only will you breathe easier, but it will help hydrate your skin!
- Just because the heat is gone doesn’t mean the sun can’t do damage! On a clear, sunny cold day, it’s a good idea to slap some sun cream on. It may feel a bit silly, but your skin will thank you.
- Vitamins A, C, and E are all great for your skin, so try consuming these naturally through food or grab some multivitamins to reap the benefits.
- Exercise! Exercising helps increase blood flow which brings nourishment to your cells – including your skin cells. Exercising also helps reduce stress, improve sleep and benefits your general mood – all of which can have a great effect on your skin.
- If you can, book a facial or a full spa day. If that’s not something you can or want to invest in, grab a DIY face mask from your local supermarket, put on some chill music and bring the spa to you!
Do you have any other tips on how to keep your skin healthy in the autumn? Let us know.
