While fall in the Frisco, Texas, area starts out much like a continuation of summer, eventually we will see changes in our weather. When seasons change, it can have an impact on your skin. With fall festival fun, pumpkin patches to visit, and football games to attend, you may find yourself outside more, exposed to the strong autumn sun. Then colder weather draws moisture from your skin due to the dryer environment outside and inside due to central heating.
As temperatures change this fall, so should your skincare routine, products, and everyday habits.
Tips for Skincare in the Fall
First, remember that fall is a great time to schedule an annual exam with Dr. Timothy Rodgers from Rodgers Dermatology. He can check for any damage your skin may have from summer, while looking for any other issues as well. He can advise you more regarding all of the tips below. He can recommend specific products for your skin issues or goals, as well and help you find any Cosmetic Dermatology services that may be helpful this time of year.
Here are some general steps you can take this fall to prepare your skin for cold weather and protect it once that cooler weather is here.
Don’t take long, hot showers.
Your skin will likely become drier with cooler weather, which can cause red, cracked, and itchy skin. Skin conditions such as eczema may also get worse or flare-up. Avoid long periods of time in hot baths and showers, which can make this redness, cracking, and itchiness worse. Consider lukewarm water instead, and moisturize immediately afterward to help seal in moisture.
Moisturize daily.
Fall weather is often less humid than summer, and this is what strips the natural moisture from your skin. The result can be dry, flaky skin during these months, even if you don’t suffer from dry skin during the rest of the year. Using a daily moisturizer that is more nourishing than what you use during summer months can help hydrate and soothe dry skin. Here are some of our recommendations for dry skin.
High-SPF sunscreen every day.
Sun damage can happen all year round, even in the fall. Damaging UV rays are the predominant cause of skin cancer and premature aging. Even if it doesn’t feel hot outside, the sun is still just as intense as it is during the summer. Always wear sunscreen!
Consider using a humidifier.
The conditions inside your home and office also change during cooler, dryer months. Central heating systems draw humidity from inside air and from the surface of your skin. Humidifiers add moisture back to both.
Exfoliate at home and with treatments.
As dead skin cells build up on dry skin, they can form a barrier that makes it even more difficult to moisturize. At home, you can use an exfoliating mask on your face and hands, followed immediately with a moisturizer. At Rodgers Dermatology, we also offer some amazing treatments for dry skin, including our HydraFacial that cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and hydrates simultaneously.
Pay special attention to your hands.
Your hands will likely already be somewhat drier during colder months, but with the rise of cold and flu season, many people wash their hands more often. Repeated washing and drying can leave your skin even drier, ultimately leading to a higher likelihood of calluses and cracks. After washing your hands, use a thick moisturizing cream to build a barrier on your skin that will help your hands retain moisture.
Remember that what you eat matters, too.
Tailgating, trick-or-treating, festivals, and other fall events can lead to an increase in processed foods such as fried foods, sugary treats, and salty foods. These are high in refined carbs, and those with a high glycemic index can cause sugars and hormones to spike. This can make acne and other skin conditions worse. Be sure you eat a healthy diet throughout the fall season, including lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Also, remember to drink plenty of water.
Let Rodgers Dermatology Help You Have a Wonderful Fall Season!
We want you to enjoy fall to the fullest with all the fun it brings. Dry skin or worsened skin conditions can make that difficult. Dr. Rodgers and the team at Rodgers Dermatology can help you make sure your skin is healthy and in good shape as we head into the colder months.
If you would like to schedule an appointment or have any other skin-related concerns, schedule a consultation by calling 972-704-2400 or booking your appointment online.