When the seasons change, so does your wardrobe. And the crisp, cool air of fall is usually the cue to begin dressing warmer in order to protect your skin from the colder elements. But what many fail to realize is that the skin needs more than warm clothes to keep it healthy during fall. A little extra TLC will go a long way when it comes to preventing skin dryness and irritation.
Stay Hydrated
The dry air of fall can irritate your skin and cause it to dry out. It is essential to drink enough water during the fall season to keep your skin hydrated. The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking at least eight 8-oz. glasses every day. The water will also help your body flush out toxins that also can dry out your skin. Drinking adequate amounts of water can keep your skin shiny, soft and supple even when the fall weather is giving it a beating.
Use Gentle Soap
Soaps made with harsh ingredients can rob your skin of the moisture that it desperately needs during the colder months of fall. Natural soaps made from plant- and vegetable-based ingredients can help protect your skin and keep it soft. You may even want to experiment with making your own soap. Homemade soaps contain more glycerin than commercial brands, and extra glycerin makes for softer skin.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating at least once a week can help rid your skin of dead cells and bring healthier cells to the surface. Salt scrubs with an oil base help trap moisture and keep skin feeling supple. Exfoliating scrubs are best applied in the shower. Use a gentle, circular motion when exfoliating your skin.
Moisturize
If you normally use a lotion moisturizer, consider switching to a cream. Cream moisturizers offer a thicker oil barrier between your skin and the cold fall air. It is important to moisturize your skin every day or a few times a day to ensure adequate hydration. Applying a cream moisturizer after a shower will help to lock in moisture.
Apply Sunscreen
Sunscreen isn't just for the beach--you should wear sunscreen whenever you are outdoors during daylight hours. According to the University of Cincinnati, the sun always produces ultraviolet rays, no matter what the season is. It is important to apply sunscreen to any part of the body that is exposed. During the fall, this usually includes the face, neck, ears and hands.
Use Lip Balm
Lip balm that contains sunscreen is another essential for fall skin care. Damage from the sun, wind and cold can cause the skin of the lips to crack and peel, but lip balm can protect the sensitive skin on the lips from the cold weather elements.
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