Frequently, you find yourself having established a skincare routine, only to discover that it no longer suits your skin. In fact, there is a logical explanation- the changing of seasons. With every new season, your skin requires a customised routine to combat the specific conditions of that time of year. Yes, that means skin care products like your facial moisturiser and cleanser are not necessarily for year-round use.


Dr Sunil Kumar Prabhu who is a Consultant Dermatology Department at Aster RV Hospital said, "The two main seasonal factors that affect your skin are temperature and humidity. So, if you live in a place where these elements change with the seasons, you might notice some skin changes — ranging from minor events of dryness to severe skin cracks and fissures."


"Weather is just one of the many environmental factors that affect your skin other than nutrition, supplements, exercise and general health. Fortunately, with a combination of healthy nutrition, restful sleep, and great skincare, there are plenty of ways to prep your skin for changes to the exposome or seasonal shake-ups. And adapting or changing your skincare routine every season might be one of the best. However, there is one thing that should always stay constant in your skincare routine year-round: high SPF, broad spectrum sunscreen." he added.


UNDERSTANDING SEASONAL SKIN CHANGES:


Before delving into the specifics of seasonal skincare adjustments, it's crucial to understand how your skin reacts to environmental changes. Several factors can impact your skin's health and appearance during different seasons as mentioned by Dr. Kiran MD, who is the Author Skin Sense & Founder Isya Aesthetics:



  • Temperature and Humidity: The temperature and humidity levels vary from season to season, affecting your skin's moisture balance. Dry, cold winters can lead to dehydration, while hot, humid summers may result in excessive oil production.

  • Sun Exposure: The sun's intensity and duration change throughout the year. Summer exposes your skin to stronger UV rays, making sun protection a top priority, while winter sun can still be damaging – but ever so slighter.

  • Wind and Pollution: Windy and polluted environments can irritate the skin and make it more susceptible to damage. Wind can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, while pollution particles can clog pores.

  • Lifestyle Factors: Your daily activities and habits may also shift with the seasons. For instance, you may be more active outdoors during the summer, which could impact your skincare needs. And of course, the foods you eat at different times of the year might have an impact on the skin as well. 


SKINCARE TIPS FOR DIFFERENT SEASONS:


Dr Sunil Kumar Prabhu listed the skincare tips for different seasons:


SUMMER SEASON:


Summer Skincare Tips:



  • A lighter moisturizer will help your skin feel less heavy and congested during summer.

  • Cleanse and exfoliate to avoid summertime breakouts. 

  • More time in the sun then sunscreen with 40and above SPF is a MUST.


Do list for summer skin



  • Do use sunscreen daily. No matter what skin type you have or how your body reacts to the sun, you should always wear an SPF sunscreen. About one ounce (a shot glass full for your entire body) of sunscreen should be reapplied two or three times a day. People do not realize they can still get burned in cooler climates or when they are not in direct sunlight or even on cloudy days.

  • Do wear protective clothing. In addition to wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, a growing body of research shows that a variety of everyday apparel, such as unbleached cotton or tightly woven t-shirts or shorts offer excellent sun protection.


Do not list for summer skin



  • Do not expose yourself to sunlight if there is a dramatic change to the skin. Skin discoloration, a changing mole and a rough red patch are all early signs of skin disease, do visit your dermatologist if you notice these changes.

  • Do not sunbathe. Even taking breaks to swim or go for a snack while sunbathing only soothes hot skin and does not prevent a burn. Sunburn is accumulated from the entire day; the only way to prevent exposure is to stay in the shade.

  • Do not think that a burn ends with aloe vera or a moisturizer or any over the counter anti rash cream   These are   only a temporary relief for sunburn and does not decrease your chance of skin damage. So, despite some local creams your condition does not resolve then go to a dermatologist.


AUTUMN SEASON:


Autumn skincare transition tips



  • Fall is another time your allergies can wreak havoc on your skin.

  • Try skincare that that will calm and soothe your skin if you are in freezing temperatures.

  • Generally, be sure to maintain moisture levels in your skin as you would in the springtime.


Do list for autumn skin



  • Do exfoliate and moisturize: It is best to apply moisturizer directly after a bath or shower to help seal in and replenish the skin with the necessary water and oils.

  • Do protect your lips. Continue to protect against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. But also start moisturizing now to prevent dry, cracked lips this winter.

  • Switch from lotion to cream. As the air becomes drier, skin needs a thicker moisturizer. Creams provide a stronger oily barrier to provide hydration.

  • Invest in hand cream. Hands often become dry and cracked during the winter. Start moisturizing hands now to ensure soft and healthy hands all winter long.


Do not list for autumn skin



  • Do not forget the sunscreen: Even though the temperatures seem cooler and the days shorter, children and adults should continue to apply sunscreen before heading out.


SPRING SEASON


Spring skincare tips



  • Allergy medicine taken to calm springtime allergies can dry out your skin. 

  • A hydrating booster can help alleviate some of the dryness.

  • Potentially change out your moisturizers depending on any changing skin needs you may need less heavy oily moisturizers in this season.

  • Add in exfoliation: The type matters: chemical exfoliators penetrate the skin for deeper exfoliation than physical exfoliants like scrubs. Also, physical exfoliation, like scrubs, can be too rough for your face while your skin adjusts to a new season. Look for a gentle chemical exfoliant formula with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and always follow up with a moisturizer.

  • Get your vitamins: A diet rich in seasonal fruits and vegetables gives you a boost of antioxidants that help protect the skin for the spring. You can also give your skin an extra boost of health and radiance by adding a skin supplement to your diet. Look for one containing antioxidants, vitamins, carotenoids, and polyphenols to help nourish your skin from within. 


Do list for spring skin:



  • Do know your skin type: Depending on the pigment of skin, the likelihood of burning in the sun can vary and so should the level of SPF in sunscreen lotion. For example, if you are fair skinned with freckles, your skin is more sensitive to UV rays. Visit your dermatologic surgeon annually for screening of your skin to determine what precautions need to take place.


Do not list for spring skin:



  • Do not forget the sunscreen: Even though the temperatures are just warming up, children and adults should continue to liberally apply sunscreen before heading outside. Some states require children to obtain a doctor’s note to re-apply sunscreen at school or day camp.


WINTER MONTHS:


Dr Ruby Sachdev, who is a Consultant - Aesthetic Physician & Founder of Skinnfit Medspa Gleneagles Global Hospitals, Bengaluru mentioned the following:



  • In colder months, consider switching to a richer, more hydrating moisturiser to combat dry indoor heating and harsh outdoor conditions. A gentle, cream-based cleanser can prevent over-drying in winter.

  • Sun protection is vital year-round, but in summer, opt for a higher SPF as UV rays are stronger. Adjust exfoliation frequency according to your skin's needs, reducing it in winter and increasing it in summer.

  • Incorporate serums or treatments that address specific seasonal concerns, like antioxidants in summer to combat UV damage and hydrating serums in winter to combat dryness.

  • Don't forget to stay well-hydrated internally, which positively impacts your skin's appearance throughout the year. Ultimately, consulting a aesthetic physician ensures your skincare routine aligns perfectly with your skin's evolving needs, maximizing its health and radiance.