Fall skincare non-negotiables, according to your skin type

It’s been a hot minute since fall rolled in. How’s everyone’s skin holding up? 

While we adore the crisp air that comes with the season, it can take a hit on the skin—especially if we don’t make the necessary tweaks to our routine. Similar to how we switch out our breezy tops and shorts for warmer layers, our skincare also needs a seasonal transition plan. 

You see, there are products that work wonders on the balmy summer days, but turn into saboteurs in fall. Refusing to replace them with fall-appropriate alternatives can be counterproductive, and can result in various issues you didn’t sign up for.

We get it, though: Change means additional expenses—not to mention, hassle. But who would sabotage their skin just to save a few bucks? Not us, nor should you. So, here’s a guide to fall skincare must-haves tailored to your skin type. (Disclaimer: Consulting a board-certified dermatologist is still your best bet.)

Oily and acne-prone skin: Control is key

Since lower temperatures (and reduced humidity levels) take oil production down a notch, here’s some good news for oily-skinned folks: You might find your skin behaving a bit better during this season. It doesn’t automatically reprieve you from a proper routine, though. The key is control, not elimination.

Non-negotiable #1: Lightweight moisturizer

Moisturizing sounds counterintuitive when you’re already battling shine, but it’s crucial in maintaining the skin’s balance. You may opt for a water-based moisturizer to retain hydration without feeling greasy. Choose formulas with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or glycerin, as these skincare ingredients lock in moisture sans pore-clogging.

Non-negotiable #2: Gentle exfoliator

Oily skin tends to accumulate dead skin cells more quickly, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. While exfoliation is still vital, you may want to scale back a bit in the fall. Swap out your harsh summer exfoliants for gentler options like a mild chemical exfoliator with salicylic acid or a gentle physical scrub with small beads. Using it two to three times a week should be enough to keep your skin smooth without over-stripping it.

Dry skin: Amp up the hydration

If you have dry skin, fall (and winter) is basically your archnemesis. Flakes, tightness, itchiness, and overall discomfort might be your daily companions all throughout the season. The solution? Major hydration.

Non-negotiable #1: Rich, emollient moisturizer

Dry skin is thirsty for hydration all year round, but it goes on a hunger strike in the fall. Your weapon of choice should be a moisturizer—a rich, emollient one—because your lightweight summer creams won’t cut it anymore. Look for actives like dimethicone, squalane, and ceramides to effectively create a protective barrier against harsh elements.

Non-negotiable #2: Hydrating serums (or masks)

These liquid wonders are like a tall glass of water for your skin, especially those with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and panthenol. These ingredients penetrate deep into your skin and quench its thirst from within. You can use them before your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.

Sensitive skin: Gentle does it

For people with sensitive skin, fall allergens and/or temperature fluctuations can trigger all sorts of skin freakout. Calming and soothing products should be your best friends this season to prevent and manage unpredictable skin reactions.

Non-negotiable #1: Fragrance-free everything

First things first: Discard the products that smell like a fruit basket or roses. Sensitive skin is finicky, easily offended, and demanding—and fragrances, whether natural or synthetic, can be a major irritant for you. So, hunt down items that are labeled “fragrance-free” or “unscented” to minimize chances of a skin revolt.

Non-negotiable #2: Patch tests and patience

Don’t slather a new product all over your face without administering a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a discrete area (say, your inner arm or side of the neck) and observe how your skin reacts within 24 hours. Remember: You shouldn’t rush into a new skincare product. Give your skin time to adjust by slowly incorporating it into your routine.

Combination skin: Balance and target

So, you’ve got the best—or should we say, worst—of both worlds. Dealing with combination skin can be tricky, but the right balance can be attained by starting with these two fall skincare non-negotiables.

Non-negotiable #1: Gentle cleansing

Cleansing is crucial in your fall skincare routine to remove any irritants that might have settled on your skin during the day, but using the wrong product can do more damage than good. To maintain equilibrium, those that cater to both ends of the spectrum are must-haves. Start with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that doesn’t strip away your skin’s natural oils.

Non-negotiable #2: Targeted care

Instead of using the same product everywhere, be strategic. You can apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to your T-zone, and a richer cream to your drier areas. Don’t be afraid to spot-treat any breakouts or dry patches with specialized products either. Customization based on what each part of your skin demands is key.

All skin types: Sunscreen—always

Don’t skimp on sunscreen just because it’s fall. UV rays are still a threat, so it’s a must to protect your skin daily.

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