As the weather cools you'll need to make some changes to your skin care regime...
Luckily, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what you need to change in your skincare routine to keep that summer glow. Words: Sarah Brooks-Wilson | Photo: Julie Adams
1. Swap your cleanser
Foaming and gel cleansers feel great in summer to mop up excess sweat and sebum, but come autumn when things are drier, it’s time to switch to a creamier cleanser or one that contains hydroxy acids. This will cleanse without sacrificing your skin’s protective barrier and help to gently remove dry patches. “Hydroxy acids can sensitise the skin during summer months, so the autumn is the perfect time to introduce them,” says skin expert Fiona Tuck. Try Skinceuticals Simply Clean or Elemis Pro Collagen Cleansing Balm.
2. Get into exfoliating and brightening
When your skin is dry it isn’t as efficient at shedding dead skin cells, so its time to step up your exfoliation. This will keep dullness at bay and tackle uneven pigmentation that’s reared its head after summer. Whether you choose a gritty scrub, cloth, liquid peel or mask, go gently as overdoing it can leave the complexion drier. Exfoliate after your nighttime regime and follow with your usual serum and moisturiser. We love Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant.
3. Try enzymes
When dry, flaky skin hangs around on the surface it changes the way the light reflects off it, so its never going to look radiant. Tuck recommends slathering on an enzyme-based mask containing papaya or pumpkin twice a week. These ingredients will help to smooth and refine the skin, leaving it glowing once again. Plus, it’s a great skin pick me up if your lacking in sleep. Try Elizabeth Arden Pro Illuminating Enzyme Masque.
SHOP: Elizabeth Arden Pro Illuminating Enzyme Masque, $120
4. Start using retinol
If you have never used a retinol-based product before, this is the time of year to introduce them into your regime. Why? “Using a vitamin A-based product when the skin isn’t prone to as much photosensitivity from the sun will help to regulate cell turnover, smooth out fine lines and rebalance the skin,” says Tuck. Always use at night after cleansing and if you see any redness after a few nights, reduce and only use it three times a week. Try Medik8 Retinol 1 TR.
SHOP: Medik8 Retinol 1 TR, $75
5. Double up on moisture
Trade your lightweight lotions and gels for a serum and a richer cream. Look for ones containing barrier-repairing ceramides, fatty acids and hyaluronic acid, which are good at preventing water loss and are powerful hydrators. Remember hydration is the key for optimising skin plumpness and glow. Try Avene Hydrance Aqua Cream-in-Gel.
6. Hit the salon
If you’ve been putting off having a facial, now is the time to book a course of professional treatments such as microdermabrasion, IPL or light peels. These will give your skin an intense deep clean, help to remove dehydrated skin and fade pigmentation leaving you fresh faced for autumn. Plus, your skin doesn’t have to contend with such harsh UV rays afterwards, which after these treatments can make it sun sensitive. Always wear a daily SPF50+, as even lower doses of UV can cause damage. Fiona Tuck is a skin and nutrition expert. Go to www.fionatuck.com