As the season’s change and the holidays approach, so too does the colder, crisper weather that can irritate your skin. Fall weather, although far less harsh than winter in some parts of the country, can be unpredictable and lead to a host of skin challenges. The approaching cold weather, coupled with a slow increase in indoor heating, draws moisture from the air and your skin. Below are a few steps you can take to get your skin fall-weather ready.

#1: Avoid taking long, hot showers or soaks in the bath

As cooler temperatures arrive, your skin typically becomes drier, leading to redness, cracking, and itchiness. Skin conditions like eczema can also worsen in cooler, dry weather. Avoid long periods in hot baths and showers, which can further dry your skin and cause more redness and cracking. Instead, use lukewarm water for washing and moisturize immediately afterward to help seal in moisture.

#2: Use a moisturizer daily

The fall months are less humid than the summer, which can strip the natural moisture from your skin. This can cause dry, flaky skin, even if you don't suffer from dry skin during the rest of the year. A daily moisturizer (especially an oil-based one) that is more nourishing than you use during the summer may help hydrate and soothe dry skin.

#3: Use a mild cleanser

Dry, flaky skin can lead to excess build-up of dead skin cells that can clog your pores, causing new or worsening acne. Sometimes, thicker, more intense moisturizers and lotions can also contribute to acne breakouts. Be sure to cleanse your face twice daily with a mild cleanser that won’t further dry your skin. Skincare treatments like facials at Upkeep Med Spa can also help remove excess skin, leading to a brighter, healthier-looking complexion.

#4: Wear a high-SPF sunscreen every day

Sun damage is a year-round concern, even when the sun isn’t clearly shining. Even when it doesn't seem hot or sunny outside, the destructive power of the sun's rays are still a concern. Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

#6: Exfoliate your skin

As dead skin cells build up on dry skin, it forms a barrier that makes it even more challenging to moisturize and cleanse your skin. Using an exfoliating mask on your face, followed immediately with a moisturizer, can help skin look and feel smoother. You can also contact Upkeep Med Spa to learn more about skincare and exfoliating treatments.

#7: Eat a healthy, balanced diet

Some of fall's (and the holiday seasons) most enjoyable traditions can lead to some very unhealthy diet choices. Trick-or-treating, fall festivals, and other holiday celebrations often involve eating processed foods and sugary treats, which can worsen acne and other skin conditions. Also, remember to drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

The fall months signal the arrival of seasonal changes and many holiday festivities and, for some, dry and painful skin. You can do many things at home and with the help of Upkeep Med Spa to ward off the challenges of fall skin. Let us help you maintain your youthful, glowing complexion throughout the year. Contact us today to learn more about our menu of skin care treatments.