Fall Skincare Swaps: What I’m Replacing in My Routine
As the crisp autumn air sets in, it's time to make thoughtful changes to your skincare routine. Fall brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity, which can leave your skin feeling drier and more sensitive. To combat this, I’ve made a few essential product swaps that help my skin stay hydrated and glowing throughout the season. If you're new to building a skincare routine, check out my previous blog post on how to build a personalized skincare routine.
1. Swapping My Lightweight Moisturizer for a Rich Cream
During the warmer months, lightweight moisturizers are perfect for keeping my skin hydrated without feeling greasy. However, when the air cools down and dries out, I need something richer to lock in moisture.
Old Favorite (Summer): Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench (light and refreshing)
New Go-To (Fall): Dieux Instant Angel (extra nourishing)
Why the change? A rich cream is key to sealing in moisture during fall’s dry spells, keeping my skin soft and hydrated. Dieux Instant Angel leaves my skin feeling nourished without being overly heavy.
2. Switching from a Gel Cleanser to a Cream Cleanser
In the summer, a gel-based cleanser does wonders for removing sweat and sunscreen. But as the weather cools, it can start to strip my skin of essential moisture, leaving it feeling tight.
Old Favorite (Summer): Cetaphil Cleanser
New Go-To (Fall): Innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam (hydrating and gentle)
Why the change? A cream cleanser is much gentler on the skin, helping me retain natural oils while still giving a thorough cleanse. Innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam is my current choice for keeping my skin balanced and hydrated after every wash.
3. Exfoliating Less, Moisturizing More
Exfoliation is essential year-round, but during fall, I reduce the frequency to avoid over-stripping my skin. Instead, I focus on moisture retention.
Old Favorite (Summer): Paula’s Choice BHA (to combat oiliness)
New Go-To (Fall): Youth to the People Kombucha + 10% AHA Power Exfoliant (gentle exfoliation with added hydration)
Why the change? Over-exfoliating during colder months can lead to irritation, so I dial it down and boost hydration instead. Youth to the People Kombucha + 10% AHA Power Exfoliant provides gentle exfoliation while keeping my skin smooth and hydrated.
4. Swapping Serums for Fall Glow
During the summer, lightweight, dewy serums are perfect for that radiant glow. But as we move into fall, I opt for something that offers more hydration and brightening without the extra shine.
Old Favorite (Summer): Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Dew Drops (lightweight and dewy)
New Go-To (Fall): Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum (brightening and hydrating)
Why the change? As fall brings drier air, I prefer a serum that provides more hydration while still working on radiance. Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum is perfect for keeping my skin bright without the extra shine.
5. Keeping SPF, But Switching the Formula
Even though fall brings cooler weather, SPF is still non-negotiable. However, I do make a slight adjustment in the type of sunscreen I use.
Old Favorite (Summer): Innisfree Daily UV Defense (lightweight and hydrating)
New Go-To (Fall): Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Spray (lightweight spray for easier application)
Why the change? Since my moisturizers are heavier in the fall, I prefer a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen. Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Spray provides excellent protection without feeling heavy, making it perfect for layering over my fall skincare routine.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning your skincare routine for fall doesn’t have to be drastic. By making these small, intentional swaps, you can keep your skin feeling nourished, hydrated, and healthy as the weather cools down. If you're unsure how to start building a skincare routine, take a look at my previous blog post where I break down the essentials of creating a personalized routine that works for you.
