Glow into Autumn: Ease your skin into the colder months with these seasonal skincare tricks...
It’s Healthy Skin Month and this week we are focusing on helping your skin to adjust to the rapidly declining temperatures! Whilst your routine shouldn’t alter too much throughout the year, there are some ingredients and techniques that come into the spotlight in Autumn / Winter and by including these within your regime, you can ensure that your skin glows even as the weather dulls!
Sun damage S.O.S
Although we didn’t have too many hazy, sun-soaked days this Summer, it is still possible that what sunshine we did have has left its mark on our skin. As well as an increase in sun spots, a buildup of sunscreen can leave us with clogged pores, and we may find we are facing additional dryness thanks to exposure to the sun and chlorine. A hydrating or balancing face mask is ideal here, as it can work to decongest the pores, whilst also brightening skin for a fresh autumn / winter glow!
Enlist antioxidants
Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, which can cause damage to the skin and accelerated ageing. They also help to protect the skin from pollution and changeable weather conditions, so crucial for this time of the year! You’ll find antioxidants within serums and hydrators containing vitamin C and E, which also help to hydrate, even out skin tone and brighten the complexion.
Prioritise hydration
Most regimes aimed at mitigating the chilly weather tend to include a rich moisturiser and / or facial oil to rehydrate and protect against any additional humidity your skin may face. Look for formulas containing ceramides for intensive nourishment, as these replenish and strengthen the skin barrier, building up optimal defense against external aggressors such as bracing temperatures and icy rain.
Exfoliate regularly but gently
Dullness, greyness and a lack of radiance are common winter skin problems. In the winter, the cold means that your body tends to hug your important internal organs - that’s the reason for icy fingers and toes! It’s the same reason that your skin can look so flat - blood tends to stagnate, leaving our skin out in the cold (literally). Gentle exfoliation is one of the best tools we have against its onset. Prioritise enzymatic exfoliators and those in cream format that remove dead skin cells which act as a barrier to new moisture retention, as well as promoting cellular regeneration.
Cleanse with care
Cold weather can cause the skin to become prone to dryness and sensitivity and so it makes sense to add a more nourishing, gentle cleanser to your regime. Avoid oil-stripping or foaming cleansers and opt for creamy, balm-textured or oil-based formulas that help to keep the moisture barrier balanced.
Skincare Pantry Tour
Autumnal ingredients not only spice up your latte, but they can also support your skincare regime too!
Pumpkin
Not just for Halloween, Pumpkins offer many benefits for the hair, skin and wellbeing. Thanks to their potent vitamin A, C and E content, pumpkins can help to boost collagen production, minimise the appearance of dark spots and improve skin tone and elasticity.
Apples
Apples are packed with health benefits, but did you know that they also contain potent skin brightening properties? Apple cider vinegar has also been found to have many wellbeing benefits and has been suggested to be beneficial when used to exfoliate, balance the skin’s pH levels and help to fight acne causing bacteria! Do proceed with caution before applying to the skin - apple cider vinegar is very strong and can cause chemical burns. Because of this, it should always be diluted with water before applying it to your skin—experts generally recommend a ratio of one part apple cider vinegar to four parts water – and ALWAYS patch test first.
Cinnamon spice
Sweet and seasonal cinnamon has anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that have been suggested to help promote wound healing, reduce redness and protect from environmental aggressors.