Autumn checklist: set the clocks back, dig out jackets and boots, and switch up the skincare.
Changes in daily temperatures and precipitation can have an impact on the dermis. From your skin’s POV: here are the pros and cons of heading into fall weather.
It's Colder Out
Pro
Like a soothing cool mask, cold weather reduces inflammation —an ideal forecast for those prone to puffy skin. Drops in temperatures also promote better blood circulation, which decreases swelling. All that combined with a product that contains vasoconstrictors (like caffeine) make it possible to say bye-bye to swelling altogether during the fall.
Editor’s Pick: Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel
Con
Cold temps are drying. That means anyone who could skip moisturizer in the summer needs to add it back in autumn. Anyone already using moisturizer should consider transitioning to one that packs a more hydrating punch.
Editor’s Pick: Epicutis Lipid Serum and Lipid Recovery Mask
It's Not So Humid
Pro
Those with skin on the oilier side, rejoice: the drop in ambient moisture means less buildup and fewer clogged pores and breakouts.
For acne-prone skin in autumn, dermatologists recommend a gentle cleanser followed by a serum or lightweight moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid. This hero ingredient excels in adding moisture without oiliness, and in keeping the skin’s barrier balanced.
Editor’s Pick: The Lip Bar Snap Back Toner Serum Drops
Con
“Due to the drop in humidity, there is an increase in eczema and skin irritation in the fall and winter than any other time of year,” says Dr. Panos E. Vasiloudes, Chief Academic Officer of the Academic Alliance in Dermatology.
“As humidity levels drop, evaporation of water from the skin increases, and this can sneak up on people. Fall is ‘eczema season’ for this reason; dry skin cannot protect itself from factors causing inflammation, resulting in dry, cracked, irritated skin.”
For those who have eczema or irritation flare-ups, moisturizing skin-care products created specifically for sensitive skin are recommended.
Editor’s Pick: Blissoma Pure Sensitive Care Complex
It's Not So Sunny
Pro
Now is the best time to introduce (or step up) use of retinols in your skin-care regimen.
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, stimulates the skin’s regeneration and collagen production. It’s a powerful anti-aging ingredient in skin care — and it famously doesn’t play well with UV rays.
Retinol products vary widely and by skin type. Recommendations should ideally come from an esthetician or dermatologist familiar with your skin.
And even after the summer sun gives way to autumn leaves, apply an SPF product year-round if you’re using retinols (as they can aggravate sun sensitivity).
Editor’s Pick: Heliocare 360 Fluid Cream SPF 50+
Con
The above brings us to a common mistake people make during fall: getting lax about SPF products.
Even though the sun isn’t beaming down as long and as strong anymore, UVA exposure can sneak up in the fall and winter. Studies show that vehicle windshields only block 71 percent of the sun, and researchers postulate that’s why skin cancer is more prevalent on the left side among Americans.
Keep an SPF product of 30 or above in your skin-care rotation — this can be incorporated as a lightweight gel or a fortified cosmetic powder that can be applied before or after makeup.
Editor’s Pick: Colorescience Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50+.
“Since fall is a new season, this may be a great time for a skin reset,’ says Dr. Vasiloudes, of the Academic Alliance in Dermatology.
“If you had too much sun exposure this summer or experienced bad breakouts from excessive sweating and other causes, you may want to consider professional treatments to help reverse damage.”