Is Your Skincare Routine Ready for Fall?

Sweaters are coming out of the closet, mornings are getting cooler, and we're reaching for warm drinks again. Fall is definitely here!

But while we're changing our wardrobes and settling into new routines, there's something else worth checking in on: our skin.

Have you noticed your face feeling a little tighter after washing it? Maybe your moisturizer isn't quite cutting it anymore, or your skin looks a little dull compared to a few months ago.

That isn't unusual this time of year. Between cooler weather, drier air, and turning the heat on indoors, our skin has some adjusting to do.

Before you head out to buy a whole new collection of skincare products, though, take a look at what you're already using. A few changes might be all you need.

1. Start With Your Cleanser

Here's something I always tell people: your face shouldn't feel tight after you wash it.

That squeaky-clean feeling isn't necessarily a good thing. Sometimes it means your cleanser is removing more moisture than your skin would like.

If you've been using the same cleanser all summer and suddenly notice your face feeling dry afterward, it might be time to try something gentler.

Pay attention to how your skin feels right after washing. Comfortable? Great! Tight, itchy, or dry? Let's look at what you're using.

2. Your Moisturizer Might Need a Little Help

That lightweight moisturizer you loved in July might not be enough in October.

With the cooler weather and indoor heat, your skin can lose moisture more easily. Some people do well switching to a richer moisturizer. Others just need to add a hydrating serum to what they're already using.

I like ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides because they can help with hydration and support the skin's moisture barrier.

But here's the thing: you don't need five different serums and three moisturizers.

More products don't automatically mean better skin.

3. Yes, You Still Need Sunscreen!

I know. It's Seattle. The sun has pretty much disappeared behind the clouds. 😂

But those clouds don't block all the UV rays that can damage your skin.

Sunscreen isn't just a summer product, and it's definitely not something to put away when the rain starts.

Keep using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. It's one of the simplest habits you can maintain for your skin.

And if you're already doing that, keep it up!

4. Don't Overdo the Exfoliation

After a summer of sunscreen, sunshine, and outdoor activities, your skin might be looking a little dull.

It's tempting to reach for a scrub or exfoliating treatment and try to fix everything at once.

Be careful with that.

Exfoliation can be helpful, but doing too much can leave your skin irritated, especially if it's already feeling dry.

If you're noticing redness, sensitivity, or tightness, take a look at how often you're exfoliating. You might need to back off a little.

And if you're not sure what kind of exfoliation is right for you, ask me at your next facial. I'd much rather help you find something that works than have you experimenting with a bunch of products at home.

5. Take a Look in Your Bathroom Cabinet

When was the last time you went through your skincare products?

I'm not talking about buying anything new. Just take a few minutes to see what's actually sitting on your shelf.

Check expiration dates. Toss anything that's past its prime. And think about the products you reach for every day.

A few questions worth asking yourself:

• Does my cleanser leave my skin feeling comfortable?

• Is my moisturizer still doing its job?

• Am I remembering sunscreen every morning?

• Is anything making my skin feel dry or irritated?

• Do I actually like the products I'm using?

That last one matters!

Sometimes we keep using something simply because we've always used it, even when it's no longer the best fit.

Your skincare routine doesn't need to be complicated. It just needs to work for you.

6. Sometimes It Helps to Have Someone Take a Look

One of my favorite things about doing facials is talking with clients about their skin.

Everyone's skin is different, and what worked beautifully for someone else might not be what yours needs.

Sometimes a client comes in thinking they need a whole new routine, and after talking through what they're using, we realize there's only one or two things worth changing.

Other times, their skin needs a little more attention.

That's part of what I enjoy about my work. I get to help people understand their skin instead of guessing their way through the skincare aisle.

And of course, there's the added bonus of getting to relax during your facial!

A Little Fall Skincare Check-In

You don't have to overhaul your skincare routine just because the seasons have changed.

Maybe your moisturizer needs an upgrade. Maybe it's time to be a little gentler with exfoliation. Or maybe everything you're using is working just fine!

The important thing is paying attention to your skin and making changes when you need them.

If you have questions about your products or you're noticing changes you aren't sure how to handle, bring them up at your next appointment. I'm always happy to talk skincare.

And if it's been a while since your last facial, fall is a lovely time to come in, get comfortable, and give your skin a little attention.

See you at the spa!

Ready for a fall skincare refresh?