Learn how to transition your routine from summer to fall, according to a pro esthetician.
As the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s so much to look forward to — whether it’s the joy of long runs through vibrant fall foliage, the excitement of getting lost in a corn maze, or the thrill of tailgating at a football game. What we don’t love so much? Dry, red, inflamed skin thanks to the changes in weather combined with hot showers and harsh, heated indoor air.
"The transition from summer to fall brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels, which can lead to dehydrated skin,” says Marquita Newton, a pro esthetician at The Spa at Equinox. As a result, your skin becomes drier and more prone to irritation, especially when you’re not giving it the extra TLC it needs.
In other words, autumn is a great time to reboot your skincare routine to better suit the weather changes, and it doesn’t have to be rocket science. Here, Newton shares her best tips to keep your complexion glowing and healthy with the right products, ingredients, and treatments.
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Key Ingredients for Fall Skincare
When it comes to your skincare routine, the cold-weather months are a crucial time to focus on hydration, protection, and repair. Understanding these key components will help you prepare your skin for the challenges of the season. Look for these ingredients in your skincare routine to help you best navigate the season.
Hyaluronic Acid
This superstar ingredient is known for holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water — ”not only helping to draw moisture into your skin” but retaining moisture to keep it plump and hydrated even in dry winter air, says Newton.
Ceramides
Your skin barrier weakens during winter, so you need to call in reinforcements. Ceramides, which are lipids naturally occurring in your skin, help protect your skin from environmental aggressors.
Vitamin C
Though you mostly hear of vitamin C-based products associated with the warm summer months, it’s just as important in the fall. Especially during the immediate transition from summer to fall, this antioxidant helps repair damage from UV exposure, keeps your skin looking healthy and bright, and boosts collagen production.
Retinol
With less sun exposure in the fall and winter, it’s a great time to reintroduce retinol into your regimen since it won’t make your skin feel as sensitive. This powerful ingredient encourages cell turnover, reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and fine lines. Remember: It’s essential to pair retinol with a thick moisturizer in the cold weather to prevent dryness.
Switch to a creamy cleanser.
If your summer go-to was a lightweight foam or gel cleanser, it’s time to switch to something more hydrating for fall. Cream cleansers remove dirt and excess oil without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Dr. Lara Devgan Advanced Revitalizing Cleanser is powered by botanicals and peptides to deeply cleanse while protecting the skin’s moisture barrier.
Shift to a thicker moisturizer.
Your skin needs a more substantial moisturizer as the air becomes drier. Opt for a product like Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream that offers intense hydration and barrier support. It revives your entire complexion, reduces signs of environmental damage, and leaves skin feeling softer and more supple.
Try a gentler exfoliator.
When your skin looks flakey and dull, you might be tempted to up the exfoliating sessions in an effort to find your glow. However, over-exfoliating can lead to more dryness and sensitivity, particularly in the cold-weather months. “It’s best to use a gentle exfoliator to avoid drying out your skin,” says Newton. Try Grown Alchemist Polishing Exfoliator, which features finely milled bamboo particles that are gentle on even the most sensitive skin, and camellia kissi seed oil for soothing moisture. “Reduce exfoliation to once or twice a week during cold weather season to prevent irritation,” adds Newton.
Add in a face mask or oil.
If your skin is feeling extra thirsty, “your skin can benefit greatly from the extra care provided by a hydrating and nourishing face mask,” says Newton. Patchology Flashmasque Illuminate 5-Minute Sheet Face mask uses essential ingredients like vitamin C to give new life to your complexion in just a little longer than a commercial break. Additionally, 111Skin Black Diamond Retinol Oil delivers revitalizing actives to your skin that encourage cell turnover while plumping fine lines and wrinkles.
Continue using SPF.
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you should leave your skin exposed to UV rays (which can still penetrate through clouds during the fall and winter). Try using Dr. Barbara Sturm Sun Drops to deliver broad-spectrum UV protection while also doubling as skincare by calming the skin and reducing visible signs of irritation as you go about your day.
Fall Skincare Treatments
As the summer ends, consider booking professional treatments at The Spa at Equinox to kickstart skin repair and rejuvenate your skin throughout the cold-weather season. “Chemical peels, hydrating facials, and LED therapy are all great for addressing sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture,” says Newton. Adapting your skincare routine for the fall is essential for maintaining a glowing complexion that keeps up with your high-performance lifestyle. “By pairing a spa treatment with high-quality products from the Equinox Shop, you’ll keep your skin radiant all season long,” says Newton.