by MARSHALL BONE
Autumn leaves are changing, and the air is getting crisp – it’s time to reevaluate our skincare routines. The drier, cooler weather can strip skin of its moisture, leaving it looking dull and feeling tight. Fortunately, with a few key adjustments, you can maintain (and even enhance) a healthy, radiant glow throughout the fall months. Here’s a seasonal guide to exfoliating, moisturizing, and protecting your skin for a vibrant autumn complexion.
1. Exfoliate to Revive Your Skin
Exfoliating is a crucial first step in any autumn skincare routine. During summer, dead skin cells build up as a natural response to increased sun exposure, heat, and sunscreen use. With fall’s dry air, this layer of dead cells can cause skin to look even duller. Gentle chemical and physical exfoliation helps to slough off these dead cells, allowing fresh, new skin to shine through.
When it comes to frequency, aim to exfoliate one to two times per week. This gives your skin time to regenerate without overstripping essential oils. And remember, after exfoliating, follow with a nourishing serum or moisturizer to lock in hydration.
Types of Exfoliants for Fall
- Chemical Exfoliants: AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid and lactic acid are ideal for fall, as they dissolve the “glue” binding dead cells to the skin’s surface. These are gentler than physical exfoliants, making them great for cooler weather when skin tends to be more sensitive.
- Physical Exfoliants: For those who prefer a hands-on approach, look for gentle scrubs with fine particles. Avoid anything too harsh––aggressive scrubbing can damage your skin’s barrier, which is already vulnerable in colder weather.
2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
If there’s one non-negotiable in fall skincare, it’s moisturizing. Cold weather, dry air, and indoor heating can lead to rapid moisture loss––leaving your skin dry, flaky, and irritated. To keep your complexion plump and soft, consider switching to thicker, more hydrating natural face creams than what you used during the summer months.
Layering for Extra Hydration
Consider layering your moisturizing products for an added boost. Start with a lightweight hydrating serum, then add a thicker cream or oil on top to seal in the moisture. For a true autumn treat, add a hydrating mask to your weekly routine to give your skin an extra burst of nourishment.
3. Protect Your Skin from the Sun (Yes, Even in Fall!)
With shorter days and less intense sunlight, it’s tempting to skip the SPF. But even in autumn, UV rays can penetrate clouds and contribute to skin damage and premature aging. Sun protection is an essential year-round step for keeping skin healthy, preventing premature aging, and reducing the risk of skin cancer. In autumn, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 is generally sufficient for everyday wear. If you’ll be spending extended time outdoors, consider bumping up to SPF 50 for added protection. Many daily moisturizers now come with SPF built-in – the perfect way to incorporate sun protection into your routine without adding an extra step!
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens
The great debate! Mineral sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) create a physical barrier on the skin and are often better for more sensitive skin types. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, absorb UV rays and tend to be lighter and less visible, which some people prefer for daily use.
4. Extra Steps to Nourish Your Skin
Autumn is an ideal time to embrace extra rituals that nourish the skin and prepare it for winter.
Hydrate from Within: As temperatures drop, we often forget to drink as much water as we did in summer. Staying hydrated is just as important in fall as it helps maintain your skin’s moisture levels from the inside out.
Consider a Humidifier: If you spend a lot of time indoors with the heat on, consider investing in a humidifier. Indoor heating can suck the moisture out of the air, leaving your skin feeling dry and tight. A humidifier is a seasonal skincare hack that helps balance indoor air quality by adding vital hydration back to your skin.
Mind Your Diet: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds) support skin health, as do antioxidant-packed fruits and vegetables. Eating seasonally, with delicious seasonal autumn foods like squash, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins, will also help your skin stay radiant and balanced!
Adjust Your Routine Gradually: Changing seasons can be a shock to your skin, so ease into your new routine slowly. Introduce richer moisturizers or stronger exfoliants gradually to avoid overwhelming your skin.
Glowing Into the Season
Fall skincare is all about keeping your routine gentle, nourishing, and protective. By exfoliating away dead cells, replenishing moisture, and staying vigilant about sun protection, you can help your skin stay vibrant and healthy through the cooler months. With a little extra care, you’ll be able to face the season with a natural, radiant glow that can withstand the challenges of autumn. Enjoy your autumn skincare journey – it’s the perfect way to embrace the cozy, nourishing spirit of the season.
Marshall Bone is a writer, copy strategist and all-around stylish guy who has been following trends in GQ for more than two decades. Voted best-dressed both his junior and senior year, Bone has continued this legacy and can be found covering various topics from men’s fashion to self care and grooming. He enjoys reading and is based in the greater Los Angeles area.
