Since the skin is the largest organ of our body and is exposed to any external agent, it is important to dedicate a specific care that may vary depending on the time of the year in which we are.
The impact of each season can take its toll on our skin. The differences between the heat of summer and the cold of winter can be vast, so each seasonal change brings with it challenges to keep our skin healthy and radiant.
Below, we look at how the seasons affect our skin and what we can do to protect and care for it properly throughout the year.
How spring affects the skin
Spring and autumn are transitional periods that are nevertheless critical periods for skin care, due to the constant changes in the weather. These transitions can unbalance our skin, which needs to adjust to variations in humidity and temperature.
Preparing the skin for change
As we move from a colder to a warmer season, it is essential to adapt our skin care products to changing needs:
- Skin assessment: observe how your skin responds to the change of season. Spring may bring increased oiliness.
- Gentle cleansing: use cleansers that do not completely strip the natural oils from your skin, avoiding those with overly aggressive agents.
- Moderate exfoliation: exfoliation can help renew the skin and prepare it for better absorption of moisturizers. However, it should be done sparingly to avoid irritation, especially when the skin is adapting to a new climate.
- Sun protection: do not neglect sun protection during these months. UV rays can be harmful year-round, and it is essential to use sunscreen daily to protect the skin from long-term damage.
Necessary adjustments in the care routine
Adjusting your routine does not mean completely changing your products, but adapting their use and possibly the amount applied:
- Adjustable moisturizers: in spring, you can opt for lighter formulas if you notice an increase in sebum production.
- Serums and oils: introduce serums with antioxidants to combat any potential sun damage.
- Attention to sensitive areas: pay special attention to the most exposed and sensitive areas, such as the lips and eye contour, which may need extra care during these transitional periods.
Only by understanding your skin’s specific needs during seasonal transitions can you prevent many skin problems and keep your skin at its best.
How summer affects the skin
Summer is synonymous with long days in the sun, trips to the beach and outdoor activities, but it also represents one of the biggest challenges for our skin care.
During these months, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause negative effects ranging from premature aging to more serious risks such as skin cancer. Therefore, it is essential to understand how to properly protect the dermis and keep it healthy and glowing even under the summer sun.
Benefits of the sun
Not everything is negative when it comes to summer sun. Sunlight is a significant source of vitamin D, essential for bone health and general well-being.
A proper balance of sun exposure can improve our mood and energy through the release of serotonin, known as the happiness hormone. However, we must find the perfect balance to reap these benefits without compromising the health of our skin.
Risks of the sun to the skin
The ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun are known for their ability to damage the DNA of skin cells, which can lead to premature aging, sunspots and other types of dermatological damage.
Excessive exposure to the sun without adequate protection significantly increases the risk of developing melanoma and other types of skin cancer.
Summer care tips
To enjoy the summer without jeopardizing the health of our skin, it is recommended to follow these guidelines:
- Use of sunscreen: apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Protective clothing: incorporate wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and UV-protective clothing into your daily wardrobe.
- Hydration: heat and increased physical activity can lead to dehydration, which also affects the skin. Make sure you drink enough water and use moisturizing products suitable for your skin type.
- Avoid peak sun hours: reduce direct sun exposure when UV rays are most intense.
- After-sun care: use aftersun or aloe vera to soothe the skin after sun exposure and aid in its recovery.
How does autumn affect your skin?
In autumn, the temperature changes so prepare your skin for this change and adjusting your skin care routine can help keep it healthy and vibrant.
For fall, consider rich formulas that help combat incipient dryness.
Now is also a good time to recover the skin after the possible excesses of the summer and the damage caused to the skin. Thus, at this time it is advisable to use moisturizers that protect and repair the skin barrier, exfoliate the skin to enhance cell regeneration and improve skin elasticity.
How does winter affect your skin?
Winter can be a particularly harsh season for our skin. Severe cold, high winds and indoor heating create an environment that can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leaving it dry, irritated and sometimes even cracked.
Understanding how to adapt our skin care during these cold months is essential to keep it healthy and protected.
Common problems in winter
During the winter, many experience what is commonly called “winter skin,” characterized by dryness, redness and itching. These symptoms are the result of lower humidity in the air and the use of indoor heating, which can significantly reduce skin hydration.
In addition, adverse weather conditions such as cold wind can increase skin sensitivity, leading to increased susceptibility to irritation and eczema.
Tips for keeping skin hydrated
To combat the effects of winter on our skin, it is crucial to follow a care routine that promotes hydration and protection:
- Intensive moisturizers: use richer creams and intensive moisturizers. Look for ingredients such as ceramide and hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture and rebuild the skin’s natural barrier.
- Protection against the cold: before going out, protect your skin with barrier creams that can provide a shield against wind and cold. Don’t forget to apply lip balm to avoid chapped lips.
- Warm baths and showers: avoid very hot baths, as they can strip the skin of its natural oils. Opt for lukewarm water and limit the time you spend in the shower.
- Humidifiers: consider using a humidifier at home to help maintain an adequate level of moisture in the air, which is beneficial for both your skin and respiratory tract.
- Night care: Increase the use of night treatments, such as serums and night creams, which are more dense and nourishing, to support skin regeneration during sleep.
Thanks to this care, your skin can remain supple and healthy even in the harsh winter weather.
As you can see, although we insist on taking care of our skin only for a few months, it is a daily job all year round.
