holding the balance.
That’s all skin wants, really. To stay in healthy balance, and have its needs met in order to thrive and adapt. Alongside us, our skin experiences fluctuations as our environment shifts. Be it seasonal or travel, the way skin responds is always an effort toward equilibrium. But when one or more of its needs are unavailable, like an unapologetic messenger, it’s then that we see the symptoms of it, in how our skin looks, feels, and functions.
For many of us, warmer, sunnier and more humid climates mean our skin trends toward a more manageable balance. Skin is softer, more plump, and our routine can be simplified. Harsher, colder and dryer climates can rob skin of its natural hydration and dysregulate moisture, meaning a more in-depth or considered daily ritual.
However, it isn’t always as simple as using a richer or more lightweight moisturizer. Knowing your unique skin needs during these fluctuations makes it supremely easy to have the healthy, vibrant, balanced skin we all seek, in any season, and anywhere in the world.
start where you are and adjust from there.
Your cleanser and skin’s nutrient needs such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins, will tend to stay the same, regardless of skin type. You may notice the need to exfoliate more often to prevent dullness and allow your skin to better absorb your products. What you will likely notice most are changes in the distribution of hydration and the balance of moisture. While dehydrated skin (low in water) and dry skin (low in oil) have some distinct symptoms, they share some symptoms as well, and are often confused. Both can lead to a disrupted skin barrier and potential for environmental damage, fine lines, and inflammation. When choosing skincare in times of climate fluctuation, keep your skin type in mind. You may need only a small adjustment to your daily routine, as long as it's the right one for you. For example: If you tend toward oily skin all year, add more hydration in cold or dry months, rather than a heavier moisturizer. (general guidance by skin type, at the end of this article)
signs of skin dehydration
Skin may feel tight, rough or itchy. May appear dull, and thin & papery with fine lines and increased sensitivity, nutrient loss or barrier disruption. Because dehydrated skin needs water rather than oil, be sure to add in water-based skincare products. Limit coffee and alcohol which further dehydrate skin. Incorporate water-rich foods into your diet, such as watermelon, berries, lettuce, cucumber, and celery.
signs of skin dryness
Skin may appear scaly, flaky, red or irritated, with pores smaller than usual. Fine lines and dullness are also common. Increased incidence of psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis. Moisture (whether from a moisturizer or skin's natural oils) works in tandem with water to seal in the hydration and protect from water evaporating from skin's surface. Layer hydration first, follow with facial oil (if using), then finish with your moisturizer. Apply a few times a day until your skin's moisture level returns to balance.
While dry skin is a common skin "type", dehydrated skin is a condition that can occur in anyone. Unlike dry skin, dehydrated skin typically does produce enough oil; however, it does not retain enough moisture. During seasonal or climate changes, often both are needed. The key is to have them in balance with each other. If you find you need one more than the other, add in or use more of the one you need, while using the other same as usual.
consider your environment.
Change in season and a change in climate zone when traveling, have very similar effects on skin. Your environment will dictate what your skin will experience. The goal is to consider the season or climate beforehand, compare it with your skin's typical behavior, and adapt your routine accordingly to encourage your skin to stay in balance.
guidelines by skin type & climate
For all skin types, exfoliate and mask as needed. City Dwellers and those who spend a lot of time in direct exposure may need more antioxidants to neutralize the effects of pollution and prevent UV damage.
for normal skin
In warm, humid seasons or climates, keep it simple. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize with your regular daily routine, twice a day. In cooler, drier seasons or climates, assess skin for dehydration. Add a hydrating product between your cleanser and moisturizer.
for combination or oily skin
In warm, humid seasons or climates, keep hydrated. Hydrating products will help balance out oil production and keep pores clear. Use a lightweight facial oil or moisturizer to seal it all in. You may not need moisturizer in the t-zone.
In cooler, drier seasons or climates, hydration is still key for oil balance. Assess skin (like forehead & cheeks) to see if you need to use a more nourishing moisturizer. Pay attention to where your skin needs product, and where it doesn't. Using skincare such as facial oils, serums and moisturizer on cheeks while avoiding the t-zone can be beneficial for your skin.
for mature or dry skin
In warm, humid seasons or climates, hydration twice a day, a lighter moisturizer during the day, and a more nourishing moisturizer in the evening is typically ideal. Assess skin for drier or more dehydrated areas (such as around your eyes, or cheeks), and adjust the level of product you use there.
In cooler, drier seasons or climates, hydration twice a day is still key. You may need a more nourishing moisturizer for day, and to layer on products at night. When layering products on more than once, apply all of your hydrating layers first, then follow with all of your moisturizing layers. Wait a few minutes between each layer to allow to absorb.
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