Our skin is our protector. It shields us from external influences and provides a barrier between us and the outer world. As such, it should be viewed as a temple of sorts, something we cherish and nourish. That the least we can do to give back for everything our skin does for us, everything it endures. Different seasons come with different rules. Hence, different measures of protection are in order. The autumn weather is no skin’s friend – the rain, the cold, the harsh winds, they all take a toll on the skin, which is why it is our obligation to, as soon as autumn comes knocking, be prepared to tackle it with an upgraded skincare routine, new and protective products and measures.
Luckily, we can shield our precious skin in five easy and cost-effective steps, and today we will discover just how easy it is to step up your skincare game.
Scrub gently
In order for any other ‘trick’ or product to be able to protect both the dermis and the epidermis, the skin needs to be a clean canvas ready to soak up all the metaphorical paint. This is where exfoliation comes into play. As soon as we experience the first cold wind and temperature drops, the skin becomes drier, and dead cells begin to form at the speed of light. Therefore, for the sake of revealing the glowing and sparkling layer that lies underneath, we simply must remove all the dead cells. On average, it takes two to three days for the dead cells to ‘form’, so the recommended frequency of exfoliation is twice or thrice weekly.
While you may reach for drugstore exfoliators, it’s always better to go custom and cater to the specific needs of your skin. One of the most wonderful facial scrubs you can make from finely ground oatmeal. This exfoliator is so gentle that it can even be used daily. Now, as for the rest of your body, rely on the faithful coffee body scrub which you can also make in your very own kitchen. It won’t break the bank, and it’s more effective than most store-bought scrubs.
Time to oil up
Autumn may not be your friend, but essential oils are one of your greatest allies. They provide your skin with that much needed extra dose of hydration, not to mention that they give the face that healthy, almost summerish glow. Depending on your skin type and your concerns, there are various essential oils, each designed to cater to specific needs. Some will help with scar healing, others will minimize your pores. Then there are those that balance the production of sebum, and those that do wonders for the sensitive and inflammation-prone skin. Yes, oils are your friend in need, so your only task is to pick the right one, and let the skin glow, let it glow.
Slather generously
Light summer facial creams need to be benched for the time being and make way for more nourishing and just a little thicker ones. You want to find that perfect combination between deep hydration and something that won’t feel heavy or greasy on your face. Something that the skin will soak up nicely but that will still give the outer layer all the moisture that it needs. Now, as an additional measure of precaution, we would all be well advised to resort to an excellent and highly effective age spot cream. The reason for this is simple – fun in the sun comes with consequences known as age spots and wrinkles that come as a result of sun exposure. Autumn is the perfect time to erase the slowly emerging signs of aging, so a spot cream should be a vital part of your skincare family. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Dermatologists tend to say that if your skincare routine is short of a serum, your skin is greatly missing out. While the moisturizer protects the epidermis thanks to its active ingredients yet light consistency, serums are powerful skincare tools that easily penetrate into the dermis area and provide nourishment and protection of the second layer of the skin. Serums are on the pricier side, but you can always create your natural one, using ingredients that you probably have in your home. A fantastic anti-aging serum can be made using five carefully selected oils, and this little concoction will be your trusty companion during the harsh season and beyond.
A matter of preservation
There are many painful things in life, and cracked and dry lips are definitely one of them. This isn’t just a matter of aesthetics, it’s a matter of preservation. Your lips deserve the same attention the rest of your facial and body skin does, so leave the matte lipsticks on the vanity for now, and stock up on high-quality lip balms and lip repairing treatments. After all, there is nothing kissable about cracked and sore lips, so keep a tube in every purse you use.
As you can see, a great autumn skincare routine that will keep you glowing in spite of the ‘storm’ you have to weather through isn’t all that complicated. It takes five simple steps, a little DIY craftiness, and you will be all set, so autumn, bring it on, we’re ready.
