Seasonal Skincare Tips: How to Adjust Routines Year-Round

Our skin is more than just the largest organ in our body. It serves as a frontline defense system, protecting us from environmental damage, bacteria, and other external threats. It’s no wonder nearly 1.68 million Americans spent over $500 on skin care products.

But spending more money doesn’t necessarily translate into good skincare. What you need is a skincare routine that changes depending on the season. Our skin is highly sensitive to changes in the environment, including shifts in the weather. Adjusting your routine can help keep your skin happy and healthy all year long.

In this quick read, we will dive into how you can tweak your skincare for each season.

Spring: Time for Revival and Renewal

Spring is the season of renewal, and your skin can use a refresh too. This season is typically characterized by fluctuating temperatures, increased pollen counts, and a shift toward warmer, more humid weather. This can lead to clogged pores, skin sensitivity, and an overall imbalance in moisture levels.

So, your skincare adjustment should include:

1. Exfoliate Gently: After a harsh winter, it's natural for your skin to be dry and flaky. Exfoliating helps slough away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten your complexion. Opt for gentle exfoliants like Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant to avoid irritation and get smoother, glowing skin.
   
   
2. Lighten Up with Moisturizer: As spring sets in, you must move from heavy skin creams used in winter to lightweight, hydrating lotions or gels. Look for moisturizers with humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep your skin hydrated without making it greasy.
   
   
3. Use Antioxidants: With spring comes increased sun exposure, which means your skin will require plenty of antioxidants. Your spring skincare routine should include an antioxidant serum with vitamin C. This simple change will help you fight free radical damage and enhance sun protection.
   
   
4. Beware of Allergies: In the US, nearly one in three adults have seasonal allergies. Spring allergies can lead to itchy, inflamed skin. You might want to use products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, or Niacinamide to protect your sensitive skin.
   
   
5. Double Down on Sunscreen: Spring means days will grow longer and UV exposure will increase as you step out for work or fun. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. Don't shy away from reapplying if you plan to spend more time outdoors.

Summer: Season to Hydrate and Protect Your Skin

Summer can be harsh with its heat and humidity, resulting in increased UV exposure, sweat, and oil production. It can cause breakouts, sunburn, and dehydration.

This means your skincare routine should:

1. Focus on Sun Protection: Sunscreen is non-negotiable year-round, but it's particularly critical in summer. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it every two hours, especially if you want to spend more time outdoors.
   
   
2. Switch to Lightweight Formulas: Heavy moisturizers and oil-based products may clog pores in hot weather. Include oil-free, non-comedogenic gels or serums in your summer routine to provide hydration without suffocating the skin.
   
   
3. Include Hyaluronic Acid: Sun exposure and air conditioning can leave your skin feeling parched during the summer. Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid can help retain moisture and counteract dehydration.
   
   
4. Use Cooling and Soothing Ingredients: As summer begins, switch to skincare products containing aloe vera, cucumber extract, and chamomile. It can help lower the risk of sunburn and reduce inflammation from heat exposure.
   
   
5. Exfoliate with Care: While exfoliation is necessary to remove sweat, oil, and dead skin cells, avoid overdoing it during summer as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. So, use gentle exfoliants only once or twice a week.
   
   
6. Combat Excess Oil: If you have oily skin, use clay masks or salicylic acid-based toners to control shine and reduce the likelihood of acne.

Fall/Autumn: Repair and Prepare Your Skin

Fall, or autumn, is a season of transition. As temperatures drop and humidity decreases, your skin can become dry, irritated, and flaky. Your skincare focus should shift to repairing summer-induced damage and prepping for the colder months.

So, you should:

1. Use Heavier Moisturizers: Switch to richer moisturizers or an overnight hydrating mask. Look for skincare products with ingredients, like ceramides, shea butter, and squalane that can restore moisture barriers and help combat dryness.
   
   
2. Continue with Antioxidants: Vitamin C and other antioxidants can help repair damage from UV exposure and prepare your skin for cooler, harsher weather.
   
   
3. Boost Exfoliation: As dead skin cells accumulate; they can leave your complexion looking dull. Use gentle exfoliants like glycolic acid to promote cell turnover and improve skin texture.
   
   
4. Don’t Skip SPF: Even as the sun’s intensity wanes, UV rays are still present and harmful. So, use a good quality SPF 30 sunscreen whenever you step out.
   
   
5. Introduce Retinoids Gradually: Autumn is a good time to introduce retinoids or retinols to your skincare routine. These chemicals can help address fine lines, pigmentation, and texture issues. Start slowly to help your skin adjust, using them only a few times a week.
   
   
6. Hydrate Inside Out: Cooler weather often leads to lower water intake, but your skin needs hydration. Drink plenty of fluids and include hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables.

Winter: Nourish and Protect Your Skin

Winter can be tough on your skin. Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating can sap moisture from your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.

So, your skincare routine should cover:

1. Use a Rich Moisturizer: Switch to a heavy moisturizer as winter hits. Heavy creams with ingredients like petroleum jelly, shea butter, and lanolin form a protective barrier against cold, dry air. They lock in moisture and prevent water loss.
   
   
2. Limit Hot Showers: While it may be tempting to take a hot shower, hot water typically strips your skin of its natural oils. Instead, go with lukewarm showers and use gentle, hydrating cleansers that won't disrupt the skin barrier.
   
   
3. Use a Humidifier: Dry indoor air can exacerbate winter dryness. A humidifier can help maintain optimal humidity levels and keep your skin hydrated.
   
   
4. Layer Your Skincare: Use a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid, followed by a thicker moisturizer. This layering helps trap hydration and nourishes your skin more effectively.
   
   
5. Be Gentle with Exfoliation: Avoid harsh scrubs, as they can worsen dryness. Instead, use gentle exfoliants less frequently to remove dead skin cells and increase the absorption of moisturizing products.
   
   
6. Protect Your Lips and Hands: The skin on your lips and hands is thinner and more prone to drying. Use a nourishing lip balm with SPF, and keep hand cream handy to prevent chapping.
   
   
7. Barrier-Strengthening Ingredients: Look for skincare products with ceramides and fatty acids to repair and strengthen the skin barrier. This will protect your skin from cold winds and temperature changes.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting your skincare routine with the seasons is key to maintaining healthy skin. These tips will help you keep your skin glowing and happy year-round. Remember, be consistent with your skincare routine, listen to what your skin needs, and embrace the changing seasons with confidence.

As far as great skincare products are concerned, we have got you covered. Totality Skincare is your one-stop shop for everything you need to keep your skin looking its best.

Check out our bestsellers and support your skincare routine!