Fall brings crisp air, lower humidity, and indoor heating⎯all factors that can leave your complexion feeling tight, dry, or unexpectedly sensitive. What your skin needs in the summer is usually different from what it needs in the fall. The change in seasons is a great time to reassess your skincare routine, and keep what products work year-round while adding any new products that your skin needs.
What Skincare Products You Should Keep During the Fall
Sunscreen
Always wear sunscreen whether it’s raining, snowing, or overcast, because the sun gives off Ultraviolet B (UVB). This means sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine. Be sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours to all exposed areas.
Gentle Cleanser
If you’re already using a gentle cleanser, keep using this during the fall. As the air becomes drier, harsh cleansers can strip away essential oils your skin needs to maintain its protective barrier. Cleansers that remove dirt and makeup without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry are the best ones to use. Shop our recommended gentle skin cleansers.
Moisturizer
You still need to use your go-to moisturizer during the fall, but you may need to change how you use it. That lightweight summer formula can remain part of your routine whether as a base layer beneath a richer cream, or during the daytime under makeup. During fall, think of it as refining your skincare routine rather than a reset, because your skin’s needs become more delicate. Your skincare routine’s focus should shift from combating summer's oiliness to protecting skin from increased dryness and sensitivity. By making small adjustments to your current routine, you’ll protect your skin’s barrier without overwhelming it with sudden, drastic changes. Shop our recommended moisturizers.
Active Skincare Ingredients
If you've been using retinol, vitamin C, or AHAs/BHAs and they’re working, don't stop using them. They continue to support skin texture, tone, and anti-aging. However, you might need to adjust frequency or concentration as your skin becomes more sensitive in drier weather. The goal is maintaining their benefits while preventing skin irritation.
What Skincare Products You Should Ditch During the Fall
Only Using Lightweight Moisturizers
For colder, drier weather, switch from a lightweight gel moisturizer to a richer, thicker moisturizer to prevent moisture loss from your skin. Gel formulas which are primarily water-based, evaporate quickly in dry, indoor heating and cold winds, leaving skin feeling tight and parched. But thicker moisturizers create a protective barrier to lock in hydration.
Over Exfoliation
Summer skin could handle more frequent exfoliation, but during the fall, skin needs a gentler approach. The combination of environmental stressors and naturally decreased oil production means your skin's barrier function is already working overtime. Exfoliate once or twice a week, and be more mindful about layering chemical exfoliants. Signs you're over exfoliating could include increased sensitivity, redness that doesn't fade quickly, or skin that feels raw after your routine.
What Skincare Products to Add During the Fall
Hydrating Serums
Fall is the perfect time to introduce a hyaluronic acid serum into your skincare routine. Hyaluronic acid serums add an extra layer of moisture without feeling heavy, and they work great under your existing moisturizer. Apply hydrating serums to slightly damp skin for maximum effectiveness. The extra moisture helps plump fine lines and creates a smooth base for makeup application.
Rich Night Creams
As your skin renews itself overnight, this is the best time to help restore your skin's barrier with a rich night cream with ingredients like ceramides, peptides, or natural oils. Shop our recommended night cream.
Face Oils
Adding a face oil to your routine can provide the extra barrier protection your skin needs during fall. Face oils can be mixed into your moisturizer or applied as a final step to lock in hydration.
Start with just a few drops and adjust based on how your skin responds. Oils should enhance your skin's natural glow, not leave you looking greasy. Shop our recommended face oil.
Lip Treatments
Your summer lip balm most likely needs to be switched to a more intensive lip treatment. Consider using a lip mask once or twice weekly for extra hydration. Don't wait until your lips are already chapped to upgrade your lip care. Prevention is much easier than repair when it comes to lip health.
How to Smoothly Transition to a Fall Skincare
Switching your skincare routine doesn’t need to happen overnight. Introduce new products gradually, starting with one new item per week, depending on your skin type. This approach helps you see if any new products work for your skin, and prevents overwhelming your complexion with too many changes at once. Pay attention to how your skin feels throughout the day. Fall skin might feel fine in the morning, but seasonal changes, like lower humidity, can lead to dryness or tightness as the day progresses. This is a good signal that your skin’s barrier may need extra hydration or protection.
Reserve Your Personalized Skincare Consultation
Transform your skin with a personalized skincare routine curated by our experts. Reserve your appointment today at Sarah Akram Skincare in the DC area, so you can get your skin ready for fall.
