Everyone wants flawless skin, but few are born with it. In order to put your best face forward, especially with the seasonal changes, you need to know how to best care for your skin during the different times of the year.
As the seasons transition from summer to fall, temperatures and humidity drop. Drier air means moisturizing your face is increasingly important. If you have dry patches or flaky skin, the most effective tool to combat dryness is an exfoliator. By getting rid of dead, dry skin cells, you allow fresh skin to better absorb moisture, leading to healthier looking and feeling skin.
Difference Between Cleansers
Not all facial cleansers are created equally. If you have acne-prone skin, it’s important to know the difference between benzoyl peroxide versus salicylic acid and how these ingredients help combat breakouts.
If you are trying to decide which ingredient is more effective, the answer is both. A varied skincare routine will be the most effective way to keep your skin clear from acne. Benzoyl peroxide helps fight existing acne because it delivers an oxygen-rich environment that bacteria can’t thrive in. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation associated with acne.
On the other hand, salicylic acid gently exfoliates your skin and helps to unclog pores. Acne forms when pores get clogged and bacteria have the chance to grow. To keep a well-balanced routine, you should use a cleanser with benzoyl peroxide in the morning and one with salicylic acid in the evening so you are reaping the benefits of both cleansing ingredients.
Moisturize
Once you have your cleaning routine down pat, the next most important step is moisturizing your skin. Making sure your skin is properly hydrated is most important starting in the autumn because this is when the air becomes drier and you are more prone to dry, itchy, and even flaky skin.
Find a moisturizer that is best for your skin type. If you have oily skin, use a lighter and maybe oil-free moisturizer that will hydrate your skin without feeling too heavy. The biggest mistake you can make is thinking you don’t have to use a moisturizer because you already have oily skin.
The best time to apply moisturizer is after cleansing and when your face is still slightly damp. This will help ensure it is absorbed by your skin and be the most effective in keeping your skin from drying out.
Don’t forget to drink an adequate amount of water too. Facial applications of moisture will only go so far. The benefits of drinking water are seemingly endless for overall good health. One of these benefits is hydrating your skin from the inside and flushing toxins out. Drinking sufficient amounts of water also helps to keep your complexion clear.
Diet
Just as paying attention to the amount of water you drink, it is also important to maintain a healthy diet. Try to cut back on the amount of sugar you consume. Processed foods and foods high in refined sugar are associated with aging your skin. Pay attention to eating your fruits and vegetables. Red, yellow and green vegetables are especially high in antioxidants that fight free radicals. Over time, free radicals break down the collagen in your skin.
Make sure you apply the adage of “variety is the spice of life” to your diet. Consuming a varied but healthy diet isn’t just better for your overall health, but it also leads to younger-looking and glowing skin.
Different seasons call for different wardrobe choices as well as skincare needs. Make sure to update each accordingly.