Skin-Care Tweaks To Help You Transition From Summer to Fall

A change of season typically means a change in the way skin behaves, often resulting in dryness, breakouts, and a general lackluster appearance.  Although it may seem counterintuitive, breakouts can actually increase during the fall season.  The oil flow that takes place in the skin during the summer months is still occurring, yet the cooler air is creating layers of dead skin buildup.  This traps oil and bacteria beneath the surface of the skin, which leads to an increase in breakout activity.  On top of this, skin may start to require more hydration.  You don't need to overhaul your skincare routine, but you do need to make some minor tweaks to your regimen to ensure that your skin stays healthy during the seasonal change.

Make the transition flawless with these tips:

CHANGE YOUR CLEANSING ROUTINE

During the summer months, gel and foaming cleansers are great for deep cleaning; however, these may be a bit drying once the temperatures cool down and less oil is being produced.

DNA's Citrus Burst Cleanser or Creme of Nectar Soothing Wash, both of which are available at The Facial Studio by Ira, are great options that are rich in organic aromatic oils, phytonutrients, and healing botanicals.  

BOOST HYDRATION

Toners are often an overlooked step in a skin-care regimen.  If you aren't already using one, now is the time to start. Toners that are alcohol-free are a perfect way to give your skin the water and hydration it so desperately needs in the fall, when the temperatures are cooler.

Skin cells are like fish and need water to live.  Wipe or mist an alcohol-free toner over the skin after cleansing and immediately apply your serum or moisturizer while your skin is still damp to seal in the hydration and active ingredients.

DNA's Floral Bliss is THE choice if you're looking for a Toner.  This product contains the essential oil of Neroli which works at a cellular level to help the skin release keratinized (dead) cells and promote cell renewal.  The essential oil of Rose helps stabilize the pH of the skin, aids in moisture retention, and supports healthy cell growth.  This product can be used throughout the day as a spritz to refresh and hydrate the skin!!

GO WITH A HEAVIER MOISTURIZER

A lightweight moisturizer will be enough for most skin types in the summer, but when the weather begins to cool down, it is important to apply something a little heavier to prevent moisture loss.  If you're using a gel moisturizer, consider switching to an oil-free lotion.  If you're using an oil-free lotion, consider changing to a heavier lotion.  If you're using a cream, consider changing to something with a thicker consistency with ceramides or lipid-rich oils.  Of course, only make this change if you feel your skin could benefit from it.

Super Phyto Rich Moisturizer from DNA is a vegetarian herbal moisturizer that has been formulated with the richest, most rejuvenating plant oils.  This luxurious creme, with its abundant supply of gammalinolenic acid (GLA) and antioxidants, helps to preserve the moisture barrier function of cell membranes thus nourishing and hydrating the skin.  You will love how it feels on your skin and be impressed with the results!!

PROTECT WITH SPF

This may come as a surprise, but fall (similar to spring) is a season where a tremendous amount of UV damage is incurred.  We often think that when the temperatures are cooler outside, the sun isn't as harmful, but this is false.

While the UVB rays (the ones responsible for causing suntans or sunburns) are not as strong in the autumn, the UVA rays (the ones that cause skin cancer and premature wrinkles) are just as strong as they are in July or August.  Protection is a year-round job, so be sure to apply a sunscreen to the face, neck, and any exposed chest area to shield from direct sunlight.

The Facial Studio by Ira has several options to help keep you protected all year long.  EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 and EltaMD Elements Broad-Spectrum SPF 44 both provide antioxidant protection to combat skin-aging free radicals associated with UV and infrared radiation.  All EltaMD sunscreens are fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic.

ADD RETINOL BACK INTO YOUR ROUTINE

If you took a break from retinol during the summer, now is the time to get it back into your skin-care routine.  Opt for either a non-prescription retinol serum or a prescription retinoid which will help to dramatically reduce the appearance of brown spots caused by the summer sun, lines, and wrinkles.

Retinols can make your skin red and sensitive at first if you are not used to them.  A great way to stave off any reaction is by mixing your prescription retinoid with DNA's Zen Therapy Gel.  I personally do this as a part of my skin care routine. Every third night I take a pea-size amount of Retin-A, mix it with a dime's size of my Zen Therapy Gel, and spread that goodness all over my face.  I never have redness or sensitivity and I love how my skin looks and feels!!

EXFOLIATE

Because certain skin types can be prone to increased sensitivity in summertime from heat, chlorine, and sun, exfoliation should be minimal.  But come fall, exfoliation is imperative when it comes to repairing and brightening the complexion.

For silky, smooth skin, a well-formulated facial scrub or an exfoliating peel is a must.  Exfoliating is also essential in reducing breakouts as it removes the dead skin cells that trap oil.  Regular exfoliation will help to lift skin discoloration (such as sun spots and acne scars), remove dull, tired, dry skin, and encourage fresher, plumper cells to form.  this will give your skin a flawless finish.

One of the best physical exfoliators I have come across is DNA's Phyto-Lipid Hydrating Scrub.  It's all-natural jojoba beads exfoliate without harming health cells for an invigorating skin treatment.  This unique formula will leave your skin soft, smooth, supple, and stimulated!  

LISTEN TO YOUR SKIN

Regardless of the season, our skin, like our bodies, is constantly changing and adapting to whatever we throw its way, whether internal or external.  It's important to be attentive and listen to your skin for signs that it's not getting what it needs.  Tightness, dryness, increased breakouts, and sensitivity are all signs that your current skin care routine isn't working for you and a change is in order.  Pay attention to what your skin is telling you.  You always want to work with Mother Nature, never go against Her.  When skin problems start to occur, you must make certain that you are using products that specifically address your skin's needs.  And don't forget to schedule a consultation/appointment with a trusted skin-care professional.  

Seasonal changes can definitely create change in the skin, so by following these skin tips and changing up your skin-care routine, you can keep it looking and feeling its best!!

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