As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisper, it’s time to transition your skincare routine to embrace the beauty of autumn. Fall is a season of transformation, and your skin deserves a transformation too. At Borealis Dermatology, we’re here to guide you through the art of keeping your skin radiant and healthy during this time of year. Discover the secrets to a glowing complexion as we explore the essential tips and expert advice to help you put your best face forward this fall.

How Autumn Affects Your Skin

The transition from summer to autumn brings more than just a change in weather; it can also significantly impact your skin. As the humidity levels drop and the air becomes cooler, your skin’s needs evolve. The most noticeable change is often increased dryness. The drop in humidity can leave your skin feeling parched and flaky, leading to discomfort and an overall dull complexion. Additionally, as you spend more time indoors with central heating, the artificial warmth can further dehydrate your skin. This combination of outdoor and indoor factors can contribute to a compromised skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation, redness, and sensitivity.

Autumn can also exacerbate certain skin conditions. Conditions like eczema and psoriasis may worsen due to the drier air and temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, if you spent a lot of time in the sun during the summer without adequate protection, you may notice the appearance of sunspots and fine lines becoming more pronounced as your skin’s regenerative capacity slows down. These seasonal shifts highlight the importance of adapting your skincare routine to address the specific challenges that autumn presents.

How To Keep Your Skin Healthy In The Fall

• Hydration is Your Best Friend. As the temperatures drop and humidity levels decrease, your skin can become more prone to dryness and dehydration. Combat this by ensuring you’re adequately hydrated from within. Sip on warm herbal teas, indulge in hydrating foods like soups, and, of course, drink plenty of water. For your skin’s external hydration, consider using a richer moisturizer to lock in moisture and create a protective barrier against the elements.

• Exfoliation: Gently Unveil Fresh Skin. Fall is an ideal time to bid farewell to the remnants of summer sun damage and promote skin cell turnover. However, opt for gentle exfoliation methods. Harsh scrubs can strip your skin of essential oils, so choose chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) that help reveal a brighter complexion without causing irritation. If you are new to chemical exfoliation, take the guesswork out of the process and get a professional chemical peel.

• Sunscreen Is A Year-Round Necessity. Don’t let the autumnal skies fool you; UV rays are still a threat even in the fall. Continue to apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection every morning to shield your skin from harmful UV radiation. This simple step is one of the most effective ways to prevent premature aging and maintain a healthy complexion.

• Transition Your Skincare Products. Fall is an excellent time to evaluate your skincare products and make adjustments as needed. Consider switching to a richer, more nourishing moisturizer to combat dryness, and incorporate serums containing hyaluronic acid or ceramides to enhance hydration. Don’t forget to continue using your antioxidants, such as vitamin C, to protect your skin from environmental stressors.

• Don’t Forget Your Lips. Your lips can be particularly vulnerable to dryness as the weather cools down. Keep them soft and supple by applying a hydrating lip balm regularly. Look for balms with ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, and hyaluronic acid to provide long-lasting moisture.

• Treat Yourself To A Fall Facial. Consider indulging in a facial at Borealis Dermatology. Our expert aestheticians can tailor treatments to address your specific skin concerns, whether it’s dryness, uneven tone, or targeting acne or signs of aging.

• Keep Showers Short and Warm. Long, hot showers might be tempting as the temperatures drop, but they can actually strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Opt for shorter, lukewarm showers to maintain your skin’s natural moisture.

• Don’t Neglect Your Hands and Feet. Your hands and feet can also suffer during the fall and winter months. Keep them soft and smooth by using a hydrating hand cream and foot balm.

• Maintain A Healthy Diet. Your skin’s health is closely linked to your diet. Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, to protect your skin from free radical damage. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon can also help maintain skin’s elasticity.

Your Autumn Glow Awaits With Borealis Dermatology

At Borealis Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists are here to provide personalized skincare recommendations tailored to your unique needs and concerns. Whether you’re dealing with dry skin, seasonal breakouts, or other issues, we offer a range of treatments and solutions to keep your skin healthy and vibrant year-round.

Fall is a season of transformation, and your skin should be no exception. By following these expert tips and embracing the guidance of Borealis Dermatology, you can ensure that your skin remains healthy, radiant, and ready to face the beauty of autumn. Don’t just admire the changing leaves—embrace the opportunity to nurture your skin and let your natural glow shine through all season long.

For clients based in New York, Borealis Dermatology has two locations to serve patients in Garden City and Syosset. Borealis Dermatology is also pleased to offer medical and surgical dermatological services for patients experiencing skin conditions that are negatively impacting their enjoyment of everyday life. For a consultation or appointment, call the best-reviewed dermatology office in Long Island today and talk to a skin expert at 516-246-8800.