As the crisp autumn air sets in, your skincare and beauty routine needs a seasonal refresh. The cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels can leave your skin feeling dry, while your makeup shades and nail colours offer the perfect opportunity to embrace richer, more unexpected hues. Here’s how to upgrade your autumn skincare and beauty routine to keep your glow all season long.
ALSO SEE: Flossing: the simple daily habit could lower stroke risk
Skincare: Protecting and nourishing your skin in cooler weather
Dupe
1. Switch to a nourishing cleanser
Foaming and gel cleansers can strip moisture from your skin, leaving it tight and dry. Autumn calls for a cream or oil-based cleanser packed with ceramides, squalane, or glycerin to maintain hydration while effectively cleansing.
2. Hydrate in layers
Instead of relying solely on a heavy moisturiser, try layering hydration. Apply a hydrating toner, followed by a hyaluronic acid serum, and lock everything in with a rich but non-greasy moisturiser.
3. Keep SPF in your routine
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t a threat. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily to protect against premature ageing and sun damage.
4. Strengthen your skin barrier
Colder weather can weaken the skin’s protective barrier, leading to irritation. To combat this, look for products with niacinamide, peptides, and Centella Asiatica, which help soothe, repair, and strengthen the skin.
5. Use a gentle exfoliant
Dull skin is common in autumn, but over-exfoliation can worsen dryness. Instead of harsh scrubs, use a mild chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or PHAs twice a week to keep your skin smooth and radiant.
6. Overnight masks for deep nourishment
Lock in hydration overnight with a nourishing sleeping mask. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and ceramides help restore moisture while you sleep.
7. Don’t forget your lips and hands
The change in weather often leads to chapped lips and dry hands. Apply a thick lip balm with shea butter or lanolin, and keep a rich hand cream nearby to prevent cracked skin.
Beauty: Makeup swaps and unexpected autumn trends
Dupe
Autumn makeup usually means warm oranges, deep reds, and classic browns, but this year, unexpected colours and fresh techniques are taking centre stage. Here’s how to give your beauty routine a unique seasonal twist.
1. Switch up your foundation for a dewy finish
Cold weather can make your skin look dull. Instead of a matte foundation, try a hydrating or luminous formula for a fresh, radiant complexion.
2. Try an autumn-inspired blush
Instead of classic rosy tones, opt for warm terracotta, burnt peach, or even a deep berry blush to complement the season’s hues. A cream blush formula will also help maintain hydration.
3. Play with bold eyeliner
Swap your black liner for something more playful yet wearable this season. Unexpected shades like olive green, aubergine purple, or burnt orange can make your eyes pop while still feeling autumnal.
4. Lipstick shades that break the mould
Instead of the usual deep burgundy, try something different yet seasonal:
- Chocolate brown – A modern take on the 90s trend that complements all skin tones.
- Muted plum – A softer alternative to bold berry shades.
- Terracotta red – A warm, earthy red that feels fresh and sophisticated.
- Deep cinnamon – A cosy, spiced hue perfect for autumn days.
5. Monochrome makeup for a sleek autumn look
Match your blush, lipstick, and even eyeshadow in the same colour family (think dusty rose, warm apricot, or burnt sienna) for a polished and put-together vibe.
Autumn nail inspiration
If you’re looking for a subtle yet striking way to embrace the season, autumn nail colours are a great place to start. Here are five unexpected yet perfect shades to switch up your manicure:
1. Smoky teal
A deep, moody teal adds a cool-toned contrast to classic autumn hues while still feeling rich and seasonal.
2. Espresso brown
Darker than traditional chocolate tones, espresso brown is sophisticated, sleek, and effortlessly chic.
3. Metallic green
For a bold yet wearable twist, a deep green with a slight metallic sheen offers both edge and elegance.
4. Plum wine
A sultry blend of deep purple and red that’s a fresher alternative to classic burgundy.
Autumn is the perfect time to refresh your skincare and beauty routine. By focusing on hydration, barrier repair, and unique colour choices, you can keep your skin healthy and your makeup seasonally inspired.
ALSO SEE:
8 Handbag trends you need for the upcoming Autumn Winter season
Featured Image: Dupe
