How to Adjust Your Skincare Routine for the Winter & Summer Months
As the seasons change, so do your skin’s needs. Cold winter air can strip away moisture, leading to dryness and irritation, while hot summer months bring increased oil production, sun exposure, and potential breakouts. To keep your skin healthy and glowing year-round, adjusting your skincare routine is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best skincare adjustments for winter and summer, so you can maintain a balanced, radiant complexion no matter the season!
Winter Skincare: Combat Dryness & Maintain Hydration
During the winter, skin tends to become dry, tight, and more sensitive due to cold temperatures, indoor heating, and low humidity levels. To keep your skin healthy and nourished, follow these winter skincare tips:
1. Switch to a Hydrating Cleanser
❄️ Why? Foaming or gel cleansers can strip the skin of essential oils in colder months.
🌿 Solution: Opt for a cream-based or oil-based cleanser that gently removes dirt without over-drying.
2. Use a Thicker Moisturizer
❄️ Why? Cold air depletes moisture, causing flaky and tight skin.
🌿 Solution: Swap lightweight lotions for a richer, ceramide-infused moisturizer to lock in hydration.
3. Don’t Skip Sunscreen
❄️ Why? UV rays are still present in winter, and snow can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation.
🌿 Solution: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
4. Add a Hydrating Serum
❄️ Why? Dehydration leads to fine lines and a dull complexion.
🌿 Solution: Use hyaluronic acid serums to attract and retain moisture in the skin.
5. Introduce Nourishing Face Oils
❄️ Why? The skin barrier weakens in cold weather, making it prone to irritation.
🌿 Solution: A few drops of jojoba, squalane, or rosehip oil can provide extra nourishment and protection.
6. Avoid Over-Exfoliating
❄️ Why? Cold weather makes the skin more fragile, increasing sensitivity.
🌿 Solution: Reduce exfoliation to once or twice a week, using gentle enzyme exfoliants instead of harsh scrubs.
7. Use a Humidifier at Night
❄️ Why? Indoor heating dries out the air, which can dehydrate the skin.
🌿 Solution: Placing a humidifier in your bedroom helps maintain moisture levels while you sleep.
Summer Skincare: Stay Cool, Fresh & Protected
The summer heat can lead to excess oil production, clogged pores, and sun damage, so focusing on lightweight hydration and sun protection is key. Here’s how to tweak your routine for hot, humid weather:
1. Switch to a Gel or Foam Cleanser
☀️ Why? Increased sweat and oil can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
🌿 Solution: Use a lightweight, foaming, or gel cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil to control excess oil.
2. Use a Lightweight, Oil-Free Moisturizer
☀️ Why? Heavy creams can feel greasy and clog pores in humid weather.
🌿 Solution: Opt for a gel-based or water-based moisturizer with ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid.
3. Never Skip Sunscreen (Reapply Often!)
☀️ Why? UV exposure is at its highest, leading to premature aging, sunburns, and hyperpigmentation.
🌿 Solution: Use broad-spectrum SPF 50 and reapply every 2 hours, especially if sweating or swimming.
4. Add an Antioxidant Serum
☀️ Why? Sun exposure increases free radical damage, leading to dark spots and fine lines.
🌿 Solution: Use a vitamin C or niacinamide serum in the morning to brighten and protect the skin.
5. Opt for Lighter Makeup or Go Bare-Faced
☀️ Why? Heavy makeup mixed with sweat can lead to clogged pores and acne.
🌿 Solution: Use tinted moisturizers, lightweight BB creams, or mineral-based makeup to keep your skin breathable.
6. Use a Mattifying SPF or Setting Spray
☀️ Why? Sunscreen can feel greasy in hot weather, and excess oil can ruin your makeup.
🌿 Solution: Try a mattifying SPF or a SPF setting spray to keep skin protected and shine-free.
7. Stay Hydrated (Inside & Out!)
☀️ Why? Dehydration from heat and sweat can make your skin look dull and tired.
🌿 Solution: Drink plenty of water, and use hydrating mists throughout the day to refresh your skin.
Key Takeaways: How to Keep Your Skin Happy Year-Round
Steps. Winter Adjustments ❄️ Summer Adjustments ☀️
Cleanser Cream or oil-based for hydration Gel or foam-based for oil control
Moisturizer Thick, ceramide-rich Lightweight, water-based
Sunscreen SPF 30+, daily SPF 50+, reapply every 2 hours
Serums Hyaluronic acid for hydration Vitamin C & niacinamide for protection
Exfoliation Gentle, 1-2x per week Regular exfoliation to prevent breakouts
Face Oils Nourishing oils (squalane, rosehip) Lightweight oils (jojoba) or none
Makeup Hydrating, cream-based Lightweight or minimal makeup
By adjusting your skincare routine to fit seasonal changes, you can keep your skin balanced, healthy, and glowing all year long!
Need a Seasonal Skincare Reset? Let’s Find the Perfect Routine for You!
At our spa, we offer customized facials and skincare consultations to help you transition your routine effortlessly. Whether your skin is feeling dry in winter or oily in summer, we have the perfect treatments and products to keep you glowing!
📅 Book a skincare consultation today & let’s build your perfect seasonal routine! ✨
