How Weather Changes Affect Your Skin and How to Adapt Your Skin Care Routine

As the seasons shift, so does the environment around us, and our skin is often the first to notice. Whether it's the dry, cold Winter air or the intense Summer sun, each season brings its own set of challenges and opportunities for our skin care routines. 

Having two homes across the world from each other (i.e. my family is in Germany, so I visit once or twice a year, while I live in New Zealand) means that everything is opposed by 180 degrees whenever I travel - the weather, the seasons, the time, … It can be confusing for the body in so many ways.

I thought I’d share how I navigate these changes, trying my best to keep my skin healthy all year round, even when going from Winter to Summer and vice versa within a single day.

Winter: Hydrate and Protect

Winter is notorious for stripping skin of its moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. I've learned that this is the time to amp up the hydration. Switching to a richer moisturizer can create a protective barrier against the harsh elements, and hyaluronic acid can hydrate from the outside. Don't forget your lips and hands, which are often exposed to the cold. Also, hydration isn't just topical; drinking plenty of water is also crucial.

During these months, I also find that my skin appreciates a break from intense exfoliation. Instead, I focus on gentle, nourishing treatments that soothe and hydrate.

Lastly, don’t forget your sun protection - just because it’s Winter doesn’t mean the UV rays aren’t out (especially if you live somewhere that has snow).

Spring: Refresh and Renew

Spring always feels like a breath of fresh air, doesn’t it? Not just for our spirits but for our skin, too. This is the perfect time to gently exfoliate and reveal fresh, glowing skin. Incorporating a lighter moisturizer and adding a vitamin C serum helps tackle any dullness and prepares your skin for the sunnier days ahead.

As the weather warms, also make sure to reintroduce a consistent SPF into your daily routine (if you ever stopped). Protecting skin from UV damage is crucial as you start spending more time outdoors.

Summer: Shield and Soothe

Summer demands its own unique care. High temperatures and increased UV exposure (especially in NZ and Australia where the ozone layer is compromised and the sun is harsh!) can lead to issues like sunburn, increased sebum production, and potential breakouts; not to mention accelerated skin aging. A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizing serum (e.g. hyaluronic acid) alongside a high SPF sunscreen becomes my non-negotiable duo.

Don’t tempt the sun, though. Try to avoid the sun during the midday hours, and cover up.

After-sun care is equally important. Aloe vera gel or a soothing after-sun lotion can help repair and calm the skin after exposure. And, never underestimate the power of antioxidants, both in your diet and skincare, to combat free radical damage.

Fall: Prepare and Repair

As Summer turns into Fall, it’s time to repair any damage and prepare your skin for the colder months ahead. I reintroduce richer moisturizers and serums that focus on repairing the skin barrier and address any pigmentation issues from Summer sun exposure, e.g. Niacinamide. 

This is also an excellent time for treatments that may be too harsh for summer months, like retinol or more intensive exfoliants, as the skin is less likely to be irritated by sun exposure.

Listening to Your Skin

I've found the key is to listen to your skin. It will tell you what it needs as the environment and seasons change. Adjusting your beauty routine doesn't have to be drastic; small, thoughtful changes can make a significant impact. And remember, every skin type is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It's about finding what makes your skin feel its best in each season.

How do you adjust your skincare routine with the seasons? Have you tried cycling your skin care routine based on the weather changes? Do you have any go-to products or tips that make all the difference for your skin? Share below. I’d love to hear and I’m sure others would appreciate learning from your insights too. :)