Your skin is the largest organ in your body, so it is important to take care of it so that you can take care of the rest of your body as well. However, this can be difficult because of the amount of factors that affect it. One of the largest factors that impacts your skin is your environment. This includes things like geography and weather. If you live in an area that experiences seasons, you may find your skin facing different concerns during each season. Keep reading to learn more about how each season affects your skin!
Winter and Fall
Winter and Fall are the most brutal seasons when it comes to your skin. Cold temperatures tend to dry it out. Even if your skin type is oily, you may find yourself with dry or cracking skin. Sudden drops in temperature cause your skin to go into “shock,” so to say. It is so used to certain temperatures that the introduction of a new climate disrupts your system. Your skin, not used to this, puts in more effort to maintain hydration. Your moisture barrier, which is the layer of skin that locks in hydration, becomes most disrupted due to this change. This disruption makes your skin more susceptible to inflammation. Skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis are more likely to flare up during the winter.
Main Problems: dry, irritated, inflamed, and cracked skin
How to Take Care of Your Skin: Invest in a great moisturizer. Water based moisturizers are a good option because they not only lock in moisture, but also provide more moisture. You should also avoid overheated showers. We understand that it may be a reprieve from the cold temperatures outside, but the steam will only dry out your skin more. We have said it before and we will say it again: hydration is key! Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your body, and, as a result, your skin, properly hydrated. Consider, also, adding a face oil to your skincare routine. Face oils should be the last step in your routine. Remember, excess oil is bad, but there are still some necessary oils in your skin needed to keep it healthy and hydrated.
Spring and Summer
As with the transition from warm to cool, the sudden transition from cool to warm also disrupts your skin. It often feels like after your body finally gets used to the new temperatures, a change in seasons occur and your skin goes into shock once again trying to adjust. Whereas as winter and fall dry out your skin, spring and summer do the exact opposite. Excess heat leads to sweating. As a result, your body is producing more oil and your skin may feel and look greasy. This production of excess sebum leads to clogged pores, which then leads to acne and breakouts. While you are exposed to UV rays no matter what season you are in, you are more likely to be exposed more in warmer months. This is because the warmer weather often makes you feel inclined to spend more time outside after such low temperatures. UV rays are very harmful to your skin and can lead to conditions such as earl ageing and even skin cancer.
Main Problems: excess oil, more breakouts, wrinkles
How to Take Care of Your Skin: Exfoliating is a good way to get rid of the excess oil in your skin. It can also get rid of dead skin cells that built up during Fall and Winter. Aim to exfoliate one to two times a week depending on your skin’s sensitivity and oil production. Exfoliating any more than two times a week can damage your skin and dry it out. You should also make sure you are limiting your time spent in the sun, and wearing an SPF when you do have to go out. Doctors recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours. It may seem excessive, but your skin will thank you later. Another option is to use a moisturizer or CC cream formulated with SPF. You should always cleanse your face, but especially in warmer seasons.
If you live in an area that is affected by seasons, it is important to learn about your skin’s needs for each one. Products or routines you use in the Winter may not be as effective during the Summer. You should always listen to your skin’s needs. Taking these extra steps to change up your routine will leave your skin looking and feeling better than ever!
Here at Uzza, we believe in having an honest conversation with your skin. Take our free, 4-minute skin quiz to learn more about your skin type and needs!