As the seasons change, so do the needs of your skin and therefore your skincare routine. What works wonders for your complexion in the summer might leave you feeling parched in the winter, and that rich winter cream could spell disaster during a hot, humid day. The cold tends to be the worst for our skin, so you need to change up your skincare regime if you want a glowing complexion all year round.
Here is how you can tweak your skincare routine for every season.
Summer
Summer means more fun in the sun, but it also means your skin needs some extra protection and care. With increased exposure to UV rays, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF is non-negotiable.
Your skin is likely to produce more oil, so opt for a lightweight moisturiser that won’t clog your pores. Products with hyaluronic acid are fantastic for keeping your skin plump and hydrated without that greasy feeling.
Autumn
Autumn is a transitional season where you should focus on repairing summer damage and prepping your skin for winter’s harshness. Start reintroducing richer creams to your routine to help your skin adjust to the cooler, drier air, and use retinoids to encourage cell renewal.
Refreshing facemasks that provide deep hydration and use emollient-rich products are great for keeping your skin soft and supple. Skin brightening ingredients like Vitamin C can also help to even out your complexion and fade any sunspots or pigmentation left over from summer.
Winter
Winter can be brutal on your skin. Cold weather and indoor heating strip your skin of its natural moisture, leaving you with dryness, flakiness, and irritation. Start by using a richer moisturiser that contains ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acids that lock in moisture throughout the day. Using hydrating serums or facial oils in your routine gives your skin the extra boost it needs after a brisk winter day.
And don’t forget to wear sunscreen and keep your showers lukewarm! Too much heat can further dry out your skin, and you can still get UV damage even if it’s busy.
Spring
After months of cold weather, your complexion might be looking a little dull and in need of some TLC. Exfoliation is key in spring to slough off dead winter skin and brighten your visage. You should always choose a gentle exfoliant, whether it’s a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant like AHA or BHA, to reveal fresher skin.
As the temperature warms up, switch to lighter moisturisers that hydrate without weighing your skin down. And now’s the perfect time to introduce antioxidants like Vitamin C into your routine, which balances your skin tone.
If seasonal allergies have you sneezing, they might also be affecting your skin. Redness, puffiness, and irritation can all flare up in spring, so keep soothing products like aloe vera or niacinamide on hand to calm your skin.
