As the weather shifts, so does your skin’s behaviour—and just like you update your wardrobe to match the temperature, your skincare routine needs a seasonal refresh to keep your complexion at its best.
Whether it’s battling winter dryness or keeping things light in the summer heat, understanding your skin’s changing needs can make a world of difference.
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Why you need to change your skincare routine with the seasons
Your skin is directly affected by environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, and sun exposure. Each season brings its own set of challenges, and not adjusting your skincare can lead to issues such as dryness, breakouts, or sensitivity. By tweaking your routine based on the season, you can give your skin exactly what it needs, ensuring that it stays healthy, hydrated, and protected year-round.
Benefits of seasonal skincare adjustments:
Tailored hydration
In winter, your skin requires heavier moisturisers to combat dryness caused by cold air and indoor heating. In summer, lightweight, oil-free options prevent clogging pores while still providing moisture.
Protection from the elements
Winter winds and summer UV rays require different defences. Richer creams in winter help create a barrier, while summer calls for increased sun protection to prevent sun damage and premature ageing.
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Boosted skin health
Addressing your skin’s changing needs ensures it remains balanced, reducing the risk of irritation, breakouts, or excessive dryness. By adapting your routine, you prevent overloading the skin in one season and under nourishing it in another.
Skincare products to use year-round
While seasonal changes call for some adjustments, there are a few skincare staples that should remain part of your routine all year long:
- SPF: A non-negotiable no matter the season! Sun damage can occur in any weather, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is essential to protect against harmful UV rays and prevent premature ageing.
- Hydrating serum: Ingredients like hyaluronic acid are perfect for providing lightweight hydration without clogging pores, making them suitable for both winter and summer.
- Gentle cleanser: A non-stripping, hydrating cleanser that maintains your skin’s natural barrier is a must, whether it’s battling cold air in winter or sweat in the summer heat.
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Winter
Cold weather can be brutal on your skin, leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation thanks to low humidity and biting winds. This is when your skin craves moisture the most. Switch to hydrating cleansers that won’t strip your skin’s natural oils, and introduce richer moisturisers packed with skin-loving ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. These help to lock in moisture and maintain your skin’s barrier.
Even though it may feel counterintuitive, don’t ditch the SPF—just because the sun’s hiding doesn’t mean its UV rays aren’t causing harm. A daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential year-round.
And if your skin is particularly parched, add a nourishing facial oil or an overnight mask for that extra hit of hydration while you sleep.
Spring
Spring brings renewal, and your skin is no exception! As the weather warms up and the layers come off, it’s time to slough off the winter’s dullness with a gentle exfoliator. Opt for products containing AHAs or BHAs to help refresh your complexion by removing dead skin cells.
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However, with spring comes pollen and environmental allergens, which can lead to irritation or breakouts. Keep things calm and balanced by incorporating antioxidant-rich serums, like those with vitamin C, which help fight off environmental stressors. As the temperature rises, consider switching to lighter moisturisers to keep your skin fresh, especially if you notice an uptick in oil production.
Summer
Summer means more sun exposure—and more opportunities for sun damage. Sun protection is non-negotiable, so make sure you’re applying a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 every morning, and reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re outdoors. Remember, sun damage can happen in minutes!
In addition to shielding your skin from harmful rays, the heat can trigger excess oil production and clogged pores. Swap heavier creams for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers or gel-based products to keep things hydrated without overwhelming your skin. Spritzing with a refreshing facial mist or thermal water throughout the day is a summer lifesaver.
Autumn
After months of sun exposure, your skin might be crying out for some repair as autumn rolls in. Now’s the time to focus on recovery, with ingredients like retinol or peptides to help reverse the effects of summer damage—think reducing fine lines and improving texture.
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As temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, it’s wise to start introducing richer moisturisers and serums back into your routine. Keep up with gentle exfoliation, but don’t go overboard, especially if your skin is still sensitive to the summer sun.
So, as the seasons change, don’t forget to give your skincare regimen a seasonal makeover—your skin will love you for it!
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