While temperatures have been enjoyably seasonally mild, we are moving into the later, drier and chillier days of autumn. With any seasonal change, our environments change and that carries new external stressors to our skin including fluctuating weather, sunlight exposure, temperature, and our personal daily routines. These factors often affect our skin and in turn we should be transitioning out skincare regimens to match our evolving skincare needs. Everyone's skin and needs are different so while these are general guidelines for skincare swap outs, it's always best to check in with your skin care specialist to guide you on the best routine for your skin's health.
HUMIDITY + TEMPERATURE
The reduced summer heat also brings reduced humidity. With less moisture in the air, your skin is more prone to dryness. One of the best ways to combat dryness is by strengthening your skin's barrier function. Your skin is made up of layers, each of which performs important functions in protecting your body. The outer most layer, consists of tough cells called corneocytes that are bound together by mortar-like lipids. This is your skin barrier. When it is not functioning properly you may be more prone to developing scaly skin, itchiness, acne, inflamed skin or even bacterial or fungal infections. The best way to protect your barrier is to help to prepare it for environmental changes, and this is done by following a Getting Skin Ready regime every day, year round. Adding products like Daily Power Defense , AOX Illuminating Serum and Growth Factor Serum can help to restore hydration, defend against free radicals and accelerate barrier restoration. For an extra boost of hydration we love functional hydrators like Hydrating Creme or Renewal Creme that help to soothe visible irritation and redness.
LESS SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE
As we move into the later parts of the year, daylight decreases and so does our time spent outdoors. This is an excellent opportunity to start to reintroduce more aggressive products into your skincare line up. Target signs of aging and unwanted pigmentation with retinols like Skin Brightener or Wrinkle + Texture Repair. It's important to note that starting a retinol for the first time can trigger some undesirable side effects. We recommend first time users start with .25%. As your tolerance builds you can move up to stronger formulations, however you should consult with a professional on what is best for you. November is also a great time to start to prep your skin for the holidays. A gentle at home treatment like Enzymatic Peel or a Brightening Sheet Mask can help your skin get that extra glow and look its best going into the holiday season.
LESS SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE BUT..
No matter the season, applying sunscreen is a must 365 days a year. SPF is your BFF against signs of aging and truthfully no skin treatment, injectable, surgery or laser can substitute the daily service it provides. At Skin Worthy we have a variety of SPF's to suit your skin type and lifestyle. Whether you need something to protect your skin on the slopes, or you want an everyday light matte coverage for work, we have you covered - literally.
STAFF SEASONAL MUST HAVES
All of us at Skin Worthy are on our own version of a ZO Skin Health protocol. As we differ in age, gender skin types and ethnicities, our routines do not look the look. We asked every staff member to select their top product heading into winter. Here's what they shared:
Dr. Hemsworth: No surprise, it is Instant Pore Refiner. It helps combat sebum production and inflammation and gives your skin a nice air brushed appearance.
Nurse Barb: Hydrating Creme. It's an emollient - which is a cream that covers the skin with a protective barrier that traps moisture. It helps to maintain moisture to the skin that is usually lost in the dryer and cooler months of the year.
Anne: As someone who tends to have oily skin, the Dual Action Scrub is an amazing exfoliant to switch to in cooler months. It helps to keep her skin fresh and manages her breakouts.
Katie: Firming Serum. It's a lightweight formula that does heavy lifting by penetrating the skin to improve its elastic and firmness.
Meliha: Brightalive! As a non-retinol Brightener this product is safe year 'round to use to combat dark spots and improve complexion. As she may be heading back to Australia this winter aka their summer - its the perfect product to continue to keep in her regimen
Joanne: Intense Eye Creme. Your eye cream is also something you might need to swap out in cooler months. This cream is rich, luxurious and has retinol, antioxidants and peptides to smooth the under eye and prevent wrinkles.
Kristen: Retinol Skin Brightener .5% Retinol is a must in the winter. It helps to combat unwanted pigmentation accumulated in the summer from days outside running. It also helps protect the skin against future discolouration aggressors.
Jennifer: Calming Toner. As someone who has more sensitive skin, this gentler formula helps to refresh and calm your complexion.
Mariah: Oil Control/Acne Pads. Ideal for controlling acne year round and the reduction of inflammation. They also help to sooth out the affected area, which at times can be uncomfortable and painful.
Deveney: As someone who has oily skin, Daily Power Defense is a must. It absorbs quickly, hydrating the skin without feeling greasy.
Check out our Instagram Stories all month to learn more of each of our favourite products that help our skin looking its best!