Just as plants change with the seasons, your skin also transitions as the weather and seasons change. There are a number of factors that contribute to the look and overall health of your skin, including the climate and seasons. Transitions between seasons can be especially hard on the skin and require a consultation with Loveland dermatology. Here are common ways changing weather can impact your skin and how to have healthy skin throughout the year.
Fall
Fall is another transitional time as temperatures start to drop and the days get shorter. The air inside and outside starts to get dryer, especially as we start to turn the heater on. Get your skin ready for winter by switching to a thicker moisturizer and adding extra cream treatments a few times a week. You can also cut down the frequency of your exfoliation to protect skin and start using a humidifier if you notice the air get increasingly dry. By the end of fall, you should be following the full winter skincare routine, so use this season to ease your skin into it with thicker treatments and increased moisture.
Winter
Winter weather is cold and dry, especially in the high altitude of Colorado. Winter is known for being very harsh on the skin between the biting air, dry conditions, and cold temperatures. Moving in between warm cars and buildings and the harsh outside air can also cause skin to dry out faster than normal. Add moisture back into the air by using a humidifier, especially when you sleep.
In the winter, it is extremely important to use a daily moisturizer on all areas of the skin. Use a thick facial moisturizer and regularly apply body lotion throughout the day to keep the hands and other areas moisturized. Many people experience cracking hands or fingertips from the dry weather, which can necessitate advanced treatments and creams. In Colorado, it is crucial to still wear sunscreen every day during the winter. Sunlight reflects off the snow, which can make the sun’s rays even more powerful than they are in the summer. For best results, look for a moisturizer that contains SPF of at least 15. Try using gentler skincare products in the winter when your skin is vulnerable.
Spring
Just like you spring clean your home, it’s also important to spring clean your skin. As temperatures get warmer, the air becomes fresher and starts to contain more moisture. Spring is a great time to remove the dead skin and particles that naturally accumulate on your skin during the winter. Exfoliate your skin regularly to open the pores to fresh skin underneath. During the springtime, your body will typically start to hold more water, which means skin shouldn’t be as dry and you can switch to a lighter moisturizer.
Summer
Like winter, summer can also be rough on the skin. Instead of cold temperatures, Colorado is faced with hot temperatures that can cause your skin to sweat and clog the pores. Powerful sun rays can dry the skin and lead to wrinkles and redness. The most important thing to do in the summer is to keep your skin as moisturized and protected as possible. In addition to your daily sunscreen, apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you’ll be out in the sun and reapply it every few hours. Practice sun safety by avoiding being outside in the middle of the day when the UV rays are the strongest. Drink plenty of water, wear light layers, and take breaks in the shade.
Summer is a great time to let your skin breathe. Heavy products, lotions, and makeup can clog pores, especially when combined with sweat. Switch to lighter skincare products and makeup during the summer.
Taking care of your skin is a year-round endeavor. As the weather and seasons change, your skin also naturally changes, which means your skincare routine should adjust accordingly. Paying attention to the moisture in the air and the feel of your skin can help you maintain healthy skin throughout the year.