Moisturise: The Calendar Says Autumn, But Sweat Glands Disagree
Autumn officially landed on our shores on March 1st, but summer heat is hanging on – as it does. Hot temperatures dehydrate us. “The loss of moisture disrupts the skin barrier, leaving skin at risk for dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity,” says Dr Austin. Happily, a few adjustments to your normal routine will help you sail through this transitional time. By the time winter arrives, your skin will look radiant and be healthy enough to withstand the challenges of winter. (Yes, we’re talking to you, indoor heating.)
Daylight Saving Time Ends in Autumn, Not Sun Protection
Daylight saving time ended on April second, darkening the skies an hour earlier. That, combined with the cooler temperatures, makes it easy to forget about UV rays. “In Queensland, the UV index measures above 3 almost every single day of the year. This means that there’s no good day to be out in the sun without protection,” says the Queensland Government in its article 5 Reasons You Should Stay Sun Safe this Autumn and Winter. To protect your skin while simultaneously nourishing it with more than 2 anti-ageing ingredients, we recommend Intellishade TruePhysical from Revision Skincare.
Re-Think Your Moisturiser and Up Your Hydration
A thicker moisturiser at bedtime helps skin compensate for the environmental stressors you may have encountered throughout the day. “The goal is to hydrate your skin,” Dr Austin explains simply. She recommends a product that is non-irritating and non-clogging, as well as hydrating. A good choice is Allmedic’s super-hydrating fluid. “The name says it all,” explains Dr Austin. “This serum protects and nourishes parched skin with a combination of skin lipid components.”
Get Special Help for Sensitive Skin
Austin Clinic has a long history of helping people whose sensitive skin can be impacted by seasonal changes. Take people who have psoriasis, eczema, or whose skin is generally sensitive. They may feel a burning sensation in their skin. This can go on for days or even weeks due to the changes in temperature. Avene XeraCalm lipid-replenishing balm is ideal to help repair inflamed skin.
Cut Back on Exfoliants and Retinoids
Skin produces the most oil when the humidity and temperatures are high. During the summer months, that excess oil can be useful in counteracting the irritating effects of exfoliants and retinoids. As temperatures fall, so does oil production, signalling a time to change your ways. You can help your skin compensate for decreased oil production by reducing the number of times you exfoliate each week. Aspect’s Exfoliating Clay Mask is an excellent choice for people whose skin is naturally oily and blemish-prone. Use it just once a week to remove dead skin and restore radiance.
Keep an Eye on Your Lips
The outdoor temperature may be changing slowly, but your skin is exposed to radical changes in temperature as you move in and out of hot and cold spaces throughout your day. The sudden transitions can dehydrate lips, leaving them dry, cracked and even bleeding. “Regular application of a simple lip balm will keep lips moist and supple,” explains Dr Austin.
The Right Season for Skin Health and Beauty
Autumn is a time of change and a perfect occasion to visit Austin Clinic and the Sanctuary for season-centric treatments and take-home products you may not have tried before. Contact us to let our experienced team of skilled experts give your skin the care it needs to be as beautiful as it can be.
