How to Update to a Fall Skincare Routine

Fall is such a wonderful time of the year. The seasonal change in nature is a feast for the eyes. However with the beautiful colours also come the crisp temperatures and a drop in humidity. It is important to update to a fall skincare routine accordingly.

Disclaimer: recommendations are based on my own experiences and one product might work for me but not for you. Please do your research to further decide if this is something you wish to try.

Why should you update to a fall skincare routine?

Skin is very much affected by our environment. Climate plays a great role in our skin condition. With the hight temperatures, humidity and sun exposure behind us, our skin can freak out. A drop in humidity, more wind and lower temperatures will make our skin dryer and more sensitive.

Opt for a richer moisturizer

The first step to update your fall skincare routine is to switch your light moisturising formulas with richer ones. You don’t want to get out those buttery moisturizers just yet (keep those for winter). But your skin will benefit to an added layer of occlusives especially in the face of the wind.

If you don’t want to change just yet, or the budget won’t allow it, a great way to compensate is to add a few drops of oil to your moisturizer. It will ensure your skin gets the emollient factors that help seal in the hydration.

I love using my Indie Lee Squalane oil just for that! Squalane is a lipid that is also naturally found in our skin. It’s a natural moisturizing factor that decreases with age so it’s a great idea to add some in.

Exfoliate, but not too much

Exfoliation still remains a crucial step in your fall skincare routine. However, you would want to cut back on it and space out the sessions. The dry parched skin is already sensitized and won’t agree on having a protective layer stripped away too soon.

I have an exfoliation post right here if you want to know more.

Cut back on actives

Summer humidity helps a lot in alleviating the sensitising effects of our active ingredients. During the dryer seasons, you’d want to cut back on actives especially retinoids. Try using your retinoid creams sparingly and take great care in observing how your skin reacts.

If you’re looking for a great budget-friendly retinol cream, I strongly recommend The Inkey List Retinol.

Add hydrating masks

This is the best time to bust out all your hydrating masks. Whichever you decide to use, wash off, or sheet mask, they will add a so much needed bust in your skin hydration level. Plus it’s a great way to end your day and unwind.

I especialy love the Beauty of Joseon Centella Asiatica Calming Mask set.

Add a humidifier

Like I said so many times, fall brings dryer weather so you should consider investing in a humidifier. I know that I feel the terrible effects of the indoor heating during the colder seasons. Not only do I wake up with a dry nose and a hoarse voice or even a sore throat, but my skin, despite being oily, feels like a desert. Not only that, but humectants (such as hyaluronic acid) won’t have any moisture to draw from the air into the skin, and will reverse their effects, actually drawing the moisture away from the skin.

A room should be at a 40% humidity for comfortable living.

I recommend turning the humidifier on at least a few hours before going to bed to add some moisture in the air.

I hope you enjoyed this article and it will help you better prepare for the fall months.

Don’t forget to observe your skin and adapt according to your climate, skin type or skin condition. Everyone is different and these are only some guidelines that you can always perfect.

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