How to Keep Your Skin Happy in the Summer to Fall Transition

If you are a Southern California native like myself, it may be difficult to believe that fall is just around the corner.

And yes, while we may be experiencing hot weather right now, the cooler, drier weather is much closer than you think!

I have spoken many times about the need for different skin care products in different seasons, but today I wanted to get a little more detailed and give you some critical tips for keeping your skin happy during the summer to fall transition.

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall

Tip #1 - Swap Your Cleanser:

Many people underestimate the power of their cleanser, which is why this critical step often gets missed.

If you think about it, your cleanser is what primes your skin for your entire skincare regimen.

If your base is too dry (gel cleanser) or too oily (cream cleanser), it will throw off the efficacy and comfort of your skin care products.

The key to choosing a new cleanser is knowing your skin type, and how it performs in different weather conditions.

A common theme is for people to feel more oily in the summer, and drier in the autumn/winter months.

If your skin is starting to feel tighter and itchier post-cleanse, you may want to consider making the switch to a creamy or milk cleanser.

I recommend my Alana Mitchell Daily OC Cream Cleanser to gently remove impurities while providing moisturizing and soothing properties.

Tip #2 - Exfoliate: If you've spent a good amount of time on my blog, you will know that I am all about exfoliation; be it in the summertime, or the winter.

However, stepping up your exfoliation game during the shift from summer to fall is critical in ensuring gorgeous skin throughout.

As I mentioned before, your skin may experience some uneasiness, and might shift from oily to dry (and back to oily again) in a matter of days.

Exfoliating will help to rid your face (and body) of dead skin cells, and will also help to clear the pores of excess oil and dirt.

One crucial rule to follow with exfoliants is: always follow directions.

Using your weekly product every day will not provide 7x the beautiful results, but could actually be harmful to your skin.

If a daily exfoliant is what you are seeking, there are many fabulous options on the market.

I am LOVING my Alana Mitchell Brightening & Exfoliating Pumpkin Anti-Aging Masque - the scent is perfect for the season!

Tip #3 - Nourish:

Dry skin is not just unsightly or uncomfortable, it can also lead to accelerated signs of aging.

To avoid this (and to keep your skin looking and feeling it's best), you can do a number of things.

You can step up your game with a more nourishing serum/moisturizer, you can add a few drops of oil to your moisturizing routine each day, and/or you can use a seriously nourishing product in the PM.

No matter what you choose, always remember to shop for your skin type.

Those with combination skin might prefer to have two different moisturizers, one for AM, and a heavier one for PM, so they can experience the benefits of deep hydration while avoiding any "heavy" feeling on their face during the day.

Hyaluronic acid is a WONDERFUL ingredient to lock in moisture and keep skin looking firm and plump.

Tip #4 - Monitor Your Shower Habits:

As the weather cools down, you might be tempted to turn the temperature of your shower water up.

While this may feel amazing it the short term, it will cause dryness (and potential aging) in the long term.

Instead, stick to warm to lukewarm temperatures and limit shower time.

Whether you like your showers piping hot, or nice and cool, always be sure to slather on a nourishing moisturizer immediately after toweling dry.

Tip #5 - Don't Neglect Your SPF:

If you still believe you can put your SPF away after summer has simmered down, you need to think again!

Sun exposure occurs year-round, and UV rays can indeed make it through even heavy cloud cover.

Protect your skin by applying your sunscreen every morning, and reapplying every 2 hours (or more) as needed.

Many companies provide nourishing sunscreen formulas, which can also help to hydrate dry skin.

I love using Eminence Organics' Tropical Vanilla Sunscreen SPF 32 throughout fall and winter.

The Vanilla scent is delicious (though not overpowering) and transitions beautifully from the warmer to colder months.

This sunscreen is also rumored to be a favorite of the beautiful Jessica Biel.

Tip #6 - Brighten Your Skin:

If sun spots, age spots, or uneven skin tone are a concern for you, then you might want to reach for a brightening product.

These come in the form of exfoliants, cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and more so you can choose when and how to incorporate brightening into your routine.

One important thing to note, however, is that most "brightening" ingredients will cause sun sensitivity, making sunscreen application (and reapplication) absolutely mandatory.

For a fun take on brightening, try my Alana Mitchell 4-in-1 Cleansing Sponge!

Final Thoughts

Where does time go?

Seasonal changes always seem to sneak up on me!

I hope these tips will make your skincare routine changes as smooth as possible so you can be prepared for the coming months.

I'd like to know, what are some of your favorite ways to transition your skin from summer to fall? What products do you use, and what rituals do you follow? Share with us in the comments!