Photo by Gianandrea Villa on Unsplash
As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisper, the arrival of autumn brings a picturesque scene of change. Yet, along with the beauty of the season, our skin often experiences transitions of its own. For those with sensitive skin, the changing weather can bring about new challenges, from increased dryness to heightened irritation. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through five sensitive skin solutions that will help you maintain a calm and radiant complexion during this transitional time.
Gentle Cleansing is Key
The foundation of any effective skincare routine lies in proper cleansing, and this holds even truer for sensitive skin during the autumn months. As the air gets drier, your skin’s natural moisture barrier may weaken, leaving it more susceptible to irritation. Opt for a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that gently removes impurities without stripping away essential oils, such as Medik8 Gentle Cleanse. Look for ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help maintain your skin’s hydration balance while cleansing.
Embrace Hydration with Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a sensitive skin superhero, especially as autumn ushers in cooler and drier air. This powerhouse ingredient has the remarkable ability to attract and hold onto water, ensuring your skin stays plump and hydrated. Incorporate a hyaluronic acid serum, like CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, into your routine after cleansing to help lock in moisture. Applying it on damp skin helps maximise its benefits, keeping your skin soothed and supple despite the changing weather.
Barrier-Boosting Moisturisers
As the temperature drops, the wind picks up, and indoor heating systems kick in, your skin’s protective barrier might become compromised. A rich, nourishing moisturiser like Dermalogica UltraCalming Barrier Repair acts as a shield, preventing moisture loss and maintaining your skin’s health. Seek out products with ceramides, fatty acids, and natural oils to replenish your skin’s barrier function. Applying a moisturiser in the morning and evening can work wonders in soothing and protecting your sensitive skin.
Avoid Over-Exfoliation
Exfoliation is an important step to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. However, sensitive skin demands a gentle touch, especially during autumn when it’s more vulnerable. Over-exfoliating can lead to redness, inflammation, and increased sensitivity. Opt for a mild exfoliant like Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant with soft granules or enzymes and limit exfoliation to once or twice a week unless you’re us8ing a product which is suitable for daily use. Always follow with ample hydration to soothe your freshly exfoliated skin.
Incorporate Calming Masks
Treat your sensitive skin to some extra TLC with calming masks tailored to the autumn season – like CACI – Hydro Mask. Look for masks containing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile – known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. These masks can provide instant relief from irritation and redness, while also delivering a dose of hydration. Incorporate a calming mask into your routine once or twice a week to keep your skin balanced and serene.
Bonus Tip: Sunscreen, Even in Fall
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen. UV rays are present year-round, and as the days get shorter, you might forget to protect your skin. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wear it daily. Opt for a formula that’s designed for sensitive skin, ensuring you shield your complexion from potential sun damage and premature ageing – we recommend Murad Perfecting Day Cream SPF 30.