As the weather starts to cool and dry out, don’t forget about your skin! Fall is a great time to repair any sun and exposure damage from the summer, and get yourself ready for the colder months.
- Drink plenty of water and use moisturizing lotions and creams on your skin! Overexposure to the sun and the changing environments (cool and dry inside and hot and humid outside) can leave your skin ultra-dry. Apply lotion or cream after every bath or shower, and every time you wash your hands.
- Some beauty experts recommend a skin peel or other exfoliating treatment in the fall. You can get rid of dry, dead skin and bring the glowing, healthy skin underneath to the stage! Treat discolorations from sun exposure (also known as hyperpigmentation) with a chemical peel or other exfoliating treatment.
- Try switching to cream-based products — creams will help create a protective barrier against dry winter conditions.
- Chlorine and salt water are harsh on your skin AND your hair. Be sure to use a conditioner on your hair — some are gentle enough for everyday use. If you tend to have oily hair, you may want to condition less frequently. Ask your hair stylist about a deep conditioning treatment to help repair sun and water damage.
- Take care of your nails. Cold, dry weather is ahead, and that can leave you with brittle nails. When you apply lotion or cream to your hands, don’t forget your cuticles and fingernails! If you know you are prone to brittle nails, use a strengthening nail polish to protect them from splits.
- Start caring for your lips now. A wax-based balm can help prevent dry lips, but can’t do much to soften your lips if they are already dry or cracked. Try a hydrating/moisturizing formula if you already have lip problems. And look for a lip balm with sunscreen to protect your lips from further damage!
- Be careful with your acne and oily skin treatments. These products are intended to dry out your skin, but keep in mind that winter weather tends to be drier anyway! Too much drying may leave your skin rough, red, and irritated.
- Watch for the onset of seasonal skin problem flare-ups, like psoriasis and eczema. You may want to schedule a visit to the doctor or dermatologist now, as the seasons change.
Just because it isn’t hot anymore doesn’t mean you can skip the sun protection! Keep wearing that sunscreen to reduce your risk of skin cancer.