*By: Linz Bordner*

As much as I love the crisp, cool temps that fall brings, the dry air and low humidity can deplete skin of moisture. With the seasons change, it may be a good idea to switch up your skin care routine.
Take notice as to how your skin reacts to colder weather and decide from there if you should invest in new products. You may just need to make some minor adjustments to ensure your skin stays healthy and balanced during this seasonal change. And remember, not all skincare products are created equal. A moisturizer that works well for someone with oily skin may not work well for someone with dry or sensitive skin. Knowing your skin type is critical when choosing the right products.
Here are some things to consider when transitioning your skincare routine as the colder months approach…
1. Switch your cleanser
If you use a gel or foam-based cleanser during the summer, you may want to switch to a heavier, cream cleanser during the fall and winter. Or if you use an exfoliating cleanser, you may want to switch to a non-exfoliating one.
2. Try a heavier moisturizer
Usually in the colder months, the heat is turned on and the air is much dryer, which means our skin needs extra moisture. Using a heavier moisturizer will protect the skin and keep it hydrated through most of the day. Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream is an awesome moisturizer for the colder months. It’s super hydrating, absorbs well under make-up and not at-all greasy. And don’t forget to continue to use an SPF if it’s not already added to your moisturizer.
3. Exfoliate less
Exfoliating is one of the hallmarks to maintaining great skin. During the colder months, you may not need to exfoliate as often. Over exfoliating can cause your skin to dry out and become irritated.
4. Add some Vitamin C to brighten up your skin
Having that sun-kissed glow is what a lot of women are looking to achieve. Adding some Vitamin C products to your skin care arsenal in the form of serums or eye creams can brighten up your skin, even out skin tone, and help protect your skin from the aging repercussions from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
5. Keep your body hydrated
Applying a great body moisturizer immediately after you get out of the shower when it’s still steamy and your pores are open will soak in all the product and make your skin extra silky and soft. Having sensitive skin, I try to avoid products with heavy fragrance. Although they may smell nice, it can be irritating to the skin.
My favorite body moisturizer is a classic and one you can find at your local drug store, Eucerin Advanced Therapy. And don’t forget about your hands and feet, which may require an even thicker moisturizer to combat cracked heels and knuckles, which can appear in the colder months. Bag Balm, which we featured in an earlier post, is a great to use for targeting areas more prone to dryness such as lips, elbows, heels, and hands.
6. Use a humidifier
If your home has a heating system, then you are probably dealing with dry air circulating around the clock. Investing in a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and keep skin from excessive dryness. However, if a whole house humidifier breaks the bank, putting smaller ones in rooms most-occupied should do the trick!
7. Drink water and eat water-rich foods
What you put in your body in the form of food and drink directly affects your skin. Staying hydrated and drinking water throughout the day will not only help aid in digestion, but also keep your skin from drying out. Eating water-rich foods such as melons, berries, apples, tomatoes, cucumbers, and spinach and avoiding added sugars and salt will also help keep your skin supple and glowing.