As autumn surrounds us, the environment undergoes significant changes that directly impact our skin. The cooler air holds less moisture than the humid summer atmosphere in Newfoundland and Labrador, leading to a decrease in your skin’s natural hydration levels. This seasonal dryness is compounded by indoor heating, which further strips the skin of its essential oils, leaving it more vulnerable to the harsh conditions outside.

To effectively protect your skin during the fall, it’s important to understand the difference between moisturizing and hydrating. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct processes, both essential for maintaining healthy skin. Hydrating your skin means adding water to it, making skin cells plump and full. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are particularly effective at attracting and holding moisture in the skin. Hyaluronic acid, known for its ability to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple. Glycerin works similarly by drawing water from the environment into the skin, ensuring that it stays hydrated even in drier conditions.

Moisturizing, on the other hand, is about sealing that hydration into the skin. This process creates a barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture from evaporating. Ingredients such as ceramides and squalane are key players in this step. Ceramides are lipids that naturally occur in the skin and help maintain the integrity of the skin’s barrier, while squalane mimics the skin’s natural oils, providing moisture without clogging pores. These two processes are complementary and especially important during the fall, as your skin becomes prone to drying out more quickly.

And don’t forget your sunscreen—even with the days becoming shorter!

As autumn settles in, your skincare routine should evolve to meet the season’s demands. By incorporating the right ingredients, you can maintain healthy, radiant skin all season long. Remember to layer your products, protect your skin from the elements, and stay mindful of the unique challenges cooler weather brings. This will help ensure your skin remains hydrated, nourished, and glowing, no matter how chilly the days become.

Thanks to Vivier Skin for this information!