5 Tips to Transition Your Skincare from Kansas Summer to Fall
September is my favorite month of the year! As the Kansas summer sun begins to fade and the cool, crisp fall air arrives, it's the ideal time to refresh your skincare routine. Whether you’re dealing with post-summer dryness or preparing for the cooler, drier days ahead, I’ve got you covered with tips and product recommendations to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
As temperatures drop, the air loses humidity, which can strip your skin and lips of their natural oils. This loss of moisture often leads to dryness, chapping, and increased sensitivity. Additionally, dry skin can exacerbate breakouts as hardened skin cells become trapped in pores. The colder weather also causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing blood flow to the skin.
Here are my top tips for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy as we transition into fall:
Switch to a Gentle Cleanser: Choose a low-suds, gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils. A product labeled “gentle” isn’t always mild, so opt for a cream cleanser with mild surfactants, like Cleansing Silk, to maintain your skin’s moisture balance.
Layer Hydrating Products: Incorporate a range of hydrating products—mists, serums, masks, and moisturizers—into your routine. Ensure these products are free from pore-clogging ingredients if you’re acne-prone. Look for soothing components like Beta-Glucan, Glycerin, and Centella Asiatica extract.
It’s also important to balance water and oil in your products; relying solely on oils and balms can lead to drier skin by neglecting the necessary water content. If you don’t usually use masks, consider incorporating one a few times a week for added hydration. My favorites are the KrX Cica Sheet Masks and Dermathod Revive Sheet Masks, both of which are deeply hydrating and support the skin barrier.
Incorporate Facial Massage: Enhance blood flow with a facial massage every morning and evening. I enjoy doing this while cleansing, as the cleanser provides a smooth slip. You can also use tools like a gua sha stone or the Clareblend Mini Microcurrent Device. Be cautious and avoid massaging over active breakouts or open wounds.
Avoid Over-Exfoliating: Your skin relies on its outermost layer to retain hydration. Over-exfoliating can strip away these essential cells, leading to increased dryness and irritation. Steer clear of harsh scrubs and excessive chemical exfoliants, and reduce the use of acids and retinoids if you notice heightened sensitivity or dryness.
Boost Your Intake of Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids are fantastic for skin health, as they make up a large portion of the membranes for our keratinocytes, the cells that make up our skin barrier. Incorporate more fish into your diet to boost your omega-3 levels. If you don’t eat fish regularly, consider an omega-3 supplement—just be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplements. My preferred brand is Nordic Naturals as they undergo rigorous third-party testing to ensure they are free from contaminants such as heavy metals, PCBs, and dioxins.
You can shop my collection of fall essentials here. Embrace the changing season with these skincare tips and keep your skin glowing throughout fall!