Change is good, but the changing seasons can wreak havoc on your skin. Here’s how to keep it healthy and comfortable during the colder months. 

Wondering why your skin tends to feel dry and tight this time of year? It has to do with swings in temperature that your skin experiences daily. For starters, fall temps can be wildly unpredictable in many parts of the country: One day it’s mild and the sun is shining, while the very next day might be much colder and windy. 

Going back and forth between cooler weather and increased exposure to warm, dry air from indoor heating is another culprit. This draws moisture from your skin, making it much drier and even irritated, red or cracked. 

With all of that in mind, here are six updates to your skin care routine you should make this fall. 

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize 

Ok, we can’t say it enough. When there’s less moisture in the air, dry skin results. Don’t wait until your skin starts to show signs of being overly dry. Instead, make it a habit to moisturize daily right after you shower to help seal in that moisture. Look for a nourishing daily moisturizer with ingredients that guard against the drying effects of sun, wind, cold, and indoor heating (like our Aloe Moisturizer Lotion). 

Remember to hydrate 

Moisturizing starts from within. During the summer months, warm, humid weather can prompt us to drink water frequently, but sometimes we lose that habit when the temperatures drop. If you have a hard time drinking enough water, be sure to incorporate moisture-rich foods in your diet, like lettuce, cucumbers, and even mushrooms. 

Avoid too-hot water 

If you tend to crank the faucet to “hot” during fall and winter when you’re showering or washing your hands, be aware that hot water can dry out your skin and lead to redness, cracking, and irritation. 

Be sure to exfoliate

Dead skin cells build up on dry skin, forming a barrier that makes it harder for your moisturizer to do its job effectively. As part of your routine, use a gentle exfoliant (such as a topical or an exfoliating mask) to slough off those dead cells, then immediately moisturize. Talk to your dermatologist to find out which exfoliant he or she would recommend for your particular skin. 

Keep up the SPF

You may not be hitting the beach, but that doesn’t mean it’s ok to skip the sunscreen. Damaging UV rays aren’t just a problem in summer, so sunscreen should be an essential part of your regimen year-round. 

Don’t forget your lips. 

Lip care is important, too, for both moisture and sun protection, whether you spend your days in the snow or by the fire. Make lip care a routine by finding a lip balm that you’ll love to wear. Our  SPF 45 Lip Balm goes on smooth, feels great, and comes in four flavors that will remind you of summer, anytime of year. 

Don’t let dry, cold weather wreck your skin. Shop our top skin care products to protect your skin and make it feel more comfortable year-round.