Why do the seasons matter?
Temperature, humidity and even indoor heating all affect how your skin behaves. Hot, humid weather tends to increase oil production, while cooler, drier conditions (especially when combined with indoor heating) cause moisture to evaporate from the skin more quickly.
Winter cold, and dry air can lead to flakiness and sensitivity, while spring and summer bring different challenges, such as increased UV exposure and sweating. In short, your skin's needs evolve throughout the year, as should parts of your routine.
Here's how to tweak your routine by season:
Here’s a simple breakdown of how you might adapt your skincare routine from summer to autumn and winter:
Summer to autumn:
- If you’ve been using a gel cleanser and a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser, start introducing something richer as the air cools and humidity drops.
- Continue using broad-spectrum SPF daily, as UV levels remain significant even when the sun feels less intense.
- Consider keeping exfoliation on your radar, as sweat and sunscreen in summer can lead to more build-up.
- Transition your night-time routine to include a richer night cream or hydrating mask.
Autumn to winter:
- Switch from lightweight lotions to richer creams or balms, and look for humectants such as glycerine or hyaluronic acid, as well as moisturising oils that trap water and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Use gentle, non-stripping cleansers as harsh cleansers can exacerbate dryness.
- Add facial oils, overnight hydrating masks or barrier-repair serums if your skin feels tight, flaky or sensitive.
- Don't skip SPF. It’s still essential, even in winter.
Keep it simple!
The most effective skincare routines are simple and consistent. Morning and night, focus on three essentials: cleansing, treating and moisturising. Then adapt these slightly according to the season and your skin type. Using too many products or strong actives can increase irritation, especially when your skin is already adjusting to environmental changes.
The bottom line:
Yes, you should adapt your skincare routine as the seasons change. The key adjustments are about texture (lighter vs richer) and function (hydration vs barrier protection vs oil control). Keep your core routine consistent: cleanse, treat, moisturise and protect with SPF. Transition ahead of extreme weather and introduce richer skincare products as soon as you feel the air getting drier, rather than waiting until your skin is already struggling.
