We all want to have happy skin in any weather, and the best way to do that is to work with your body, rather than against it! Our bodies are designed to react to changes in the seasons; it’s probably a fall back to our prehistoric survival skills: “It’s getting cold? I’d better stock up on more food.” 

When the weather fluctuates at the change of seasons, however, our skin often reacts in ways we’re not too crazy about. While we know that we should have healthy habits to help keep our skin looking its best, sometimes Mother Nature simply takes a toll.

For instance, your skin might feel tight or appear drier than usual, maybe your pimples are more inflamed than ever, or if you’re allergy prone your eyes may be puffy. 

According to scientists and dermatologists, these not-so-welcome changes in your skin can be attributed to the transition of seasons.

What sort of skin troubles are common when the weather changes?

Temperature, humidity changes, and fluctuating seasonal allergens can all impact the way your skin looks and behaves on any given day. Spring and Fall are particularly problematic because the weather can be warm and humid one day, cold and dry the next.

What happens to skin in warm, humid conditions?

Spring and summer can do some damage to our skin if we’re not careful. Aside from the sun’s damaging rays (we all know to apply and reapply sunscreen, right?), we are also facing hot temperatures which can add to our skin’s dehydration. Increased heat and humidity will likely cause your skin to sweat too, which can leave you more susceptible to breakouts, especially if your skin is naturally oily. High heat can also lead to unsightly and uncomfortable heat rash.

What happens in cold, dry conditions?

When your skin is exposed to colder, low humidity situations, your skin can become itchy and irritated. This is because cold air will tighten your pores. We often have our central heat turned on in cold weather too, which is pumping dry air into our homes and increasing the chance we will continue to dehydrate our skin.

When it’s hot out, our bodies crave a cool glass of water. But, during colder weather we tend to be less hydrated, and that will also have a negative effect on our skin. So, our skin becomes dry, dehydrated, flaky and often itchy. Harsh weather can make skin crack, peel, and form uncomfortable redness along knuckles, knees and elbows. 

Skin conditions like eczema tend to flare up in cold, dry temperatures too.

What are some ways we can help have happy skin in any season?

1. Exfoliate to support dewy skin: Warmer weather and humidity have a way of making dirt and oils cling to our skin, so spring is the perfect time to switch up your skin care routine. If winter is the season to moisturize, spring becomes the season for gentle freshening. Try adding an exfoliating scrub or face mask to your skin care routine to rid your face of dead layers. To keep your skin smooth and hydrated, we love the idea of a natural facemask you can use a few times a week.

• Avoid hot showers: According to dermatologist, Dr. Sheri Marchbien, taking short showers with warm water only, no more than five minutes, will help to keep your skin from drying out. Hot water has a tendency to open pores in a way which allows toxins in and moisture out.  When you first get out of the shower, and your skin is still damp: that’s when you should apply a thick, nutrient-rich moisturizer.

• New season shopping: Go ahead and treat yourself to a shopping trip when the seasons change. As we approach spring time, new sunglasses to protect your eyes, and a moisturizing SPF or make-up containing SPF would be great investments in yourself.  In cooler weather, you could consider a thick nighttime moisturizer or an in-home humidifier.

While we cannot control the weather, we do have control over how we react to it. To keep your skin happy in any weather, pay attention to the humidity and temperature outdoors, as well as the state of your skin, and don’t be afraid to switch up your skin care routine as the weather changes. What other questions do you have about seasonal skin care?