In autumn, as the weather transitions from summer to winter, several changes can occur in our skin due to shifts in temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors. Here are some ways our skin can change during the autumn season:
- Dryness: As the humidity levels drop in the air, the skin tends to lose moisture more quickly. This can lead to dryness, flakiness, and even irritation. To counteract this, it’s important to use moisturizers to maintain the skin’s hydration.
- Reduced Sebum Production: The skin’s sebum production, which is its natural oil, might decrease during autumn. This can result in skin feeling drier and possibly more prone to issues like eczema or psoriasis.
- Sensitivity: The combination of cold and dry air can make the skin more sensitive and prone to redness or irritation. People with conditions like rosacea might experience more flare-ups during this time.
- Sun Damage: Even though summer is over, the sun’s UV rays can still have an impact on the skin during autumn. It’s essential to continue using sunscreen to protect your skin from potential sun damage.
- Changes in Pigmentation: Some people might notice changes in their skin pigmentation during the autumn season. This could include the appearance of freckles or slight darkening due to sun exposure over the summer months.
- Chapped Lips: Just like the skin, the lips can become dry and chapped during the fall due to lower humidity levels. Using lip balms can help keep your lips hydrated and soft.
- Windburn: Windy weather in autumn can lead to windburn, which is essentially chapped skin caused by the wind removing moisture from the skin’s surface. This can result in redness, irritation, and discomfort.
Hydrated skin is essential for maintaining its health, appearance, and overall comfort. Here are some top tips to help you achieve and maintain hydrated skin:
- Stay Hydrated Internally: Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. While there’s no fixed amount that works for everyone, a general guideline is to aim for around 8 glasses (about 2 litres) of water daily. This helps keep your body hydrated, which in turn can reflect on your skin.
- Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and foods high in antioxidants can contribute to better skin health. These foods provide essential vitamins and nutrients that support skin hydration and overall wellness.
- Use a Gentle Cleanser: Avoid harsh cleansers that strip your skin of its natural oils. opt for a mild, hydrating cleanser that cleans without over-drying.
- Exfoliate Regularly: Gentle exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing moisturizers to penetrate more effectively. However, don’t overdo it—1-2 times a week is usually sufficient.
- Moisturize Properly: Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help lock in moisture. Apply moisturizer after cleansing and exfoliating, while your skin is still slightly damp.
- Use a Humidifier: Especially during colder months or in dry climates, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and prevent your skin from drying out.
- Sun Protection: UV rays can damage your skin’s natural barrier and lead to dehydration. Always use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when you’re exposed to the sun.
- Avoid Hot Showers: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. opt for lukewarm water instead and keep your shower time moderate.
- Hydrating Face Masks: Incorporate hydrating face masks into your skincare routine. These can provide an extra boost of moisture when your skin needs it.
- Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine can contribute to dehydration. Consume them in moderation and balance them with water intake.
- Avoid Overusing Harsh Products: Some skincare products, such as those containing strong acids or retinoids, can be drying if used excessively. Follow product instructions and introduce new products gradually.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can reduce blood flow to the skin, leading to a dull and dehydrated complexion.
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity improves blood circulation, which can benefit your skin by delivering nutrients and oxygen.
- Adequate Sleep: Getting enough sleep allows your body to repair and regenerate, which includes maintaining skin hydration.
- Limit Stress: Chronic stress can impact your skin’s barrier function, making it more prone to dehydration. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
Remember that everyone’s skin is unique, so it might take some trial and error to find the best routine and products that work for you. Consulting with one of our skin therapist at Skin and Bodyworks can also provide personalized advice based on your specific skin type and concerns.
My top treatment for Autumn skin is a BYONIK Facial at Skin and Bodyworks
As we age, the cell processes which are responsible for keeping our skin looking young start to slow down. Byonik is the first ever skin rejuvenation system that rejuvenates, repairs, and protects your skin from inside the skin cells and used in combination with hyaluronic acid gels and antioxidants helps improve numerous skin concerns and is suitable for all skin types and skin colours.
Byonik pulse-triggered laser is a non-invasive and non-ablative treatment to the skin that adapts its frequency to your pulse during the entire treatment. With every beat of your heart, it releases its energy into the skin which is transferred to all layers of the skin simultaneously. The red light is anti-bacterial and helps boost collagen synthesis, while the near infrared light enhances detoxification and skin metabolism. In effect, your skin is rejuvenated from the inside out which will leave your skin repaired, glowing, and energised.
Treatments can be carried out all year around, even after sun exposure, during pregnancy or if taking Roaccutane, and work alongside invasive and non-invasive treatments such as surgery, injectables, skin peels and other types of lasers, to support skin integrity and boost recovery.
Benefits are:
Hydration Boost: Dehydrated skin lacks moisture, which can lead to dryness, dullness, and even exacerbate fine lines. A Byonik facial includes highly hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and antioxidants as well as advanced moisture-retaining compounds that help replenish and lock in moisture.
Barrier Repair: Dehydrated skin often has a compromised skin barrier, which can lead to increased sensitivity and a higher risk of irritation. A Byonik facial will focus on repairing and strengthening the skin barrier using ingredients like ceramides
Antioxidant Protection: If a Byonik facial incorporates antioxidants like vitamin C or E, that provides protection against free radicals and environmental stressors that can contribute to skin dehydration.
Exfoliation and Renewal: Gentle exfoliation is part of a Byonik facial. By removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, the treatment helps the skin better absorb hydrating products and improve overall texture.
Advanced Formulations: The term Byonik suggests the use of advanced, innovative formulations. These include ingredients that mimic the skin’s natural functions, helping it retain moisture more effectively and providing a more intense hydration experience.
Customization: A Byonik facial could be tailored to an individual’s skin needs. If someone has dehydrated skin along with other concerns like uneven tone or fine lines, this facial will address multiple issues simultaneously.