How to Care for Sensitive Skin in Changing Seasons
Managing sensitive skin can be especially tough, especially during seasonal transitions. Pains from dry, cold winters to hot, humid summers, each season has its own challenges for people with sensitive skin. And with the right approach, however, you can protect and feed your sensitive skin all year long. That being said, in this article, let’s explore how the seasonal changes impact our sensitive skin further and offer some practical tips to help with maintaining the skin healthy and glowing.
Seasonal Effects That can Affect Sensitive Skin
Spring:
Allergies can cause redness and irritation of sensitive skin with the blooming of the flowers and pollen increase. Moreover, excess UV exposure and rise in temperatures can increase the propensity of skin to get sensitive.
Summer:
During summer when it is very hot and humid, excessive sweating, clogged pores, rashes and infestation occurs. For those with sensitive skin, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn and worsen irritation.
Autumn:
Autumn can bring dry, flaky skin because it’s sometimes cooler and windier. When humidity from summer air is exchanged for drier autumn air, this can upset the skin’s moisture balance, setting it up for irritation.
Winter:
Indoor heating coupled with cold air makes it extremely dry during winter. With sensitive skin you can get chapped, flaky skin that is more reactive with skincare products.
Seasonal Skin Care Tips
General Tips for All Seasons:
- Be sure to always patch test new products before using them.
- Fragrance free hypoallergenic products are best.
- Keep up a standard skincare routine that suits your skin.
Spring Care:
- Gently use anti allergy skincare products to calm their redness and irritation.
- But always moisturize, and apply a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer so that your skin stays balanced and never gets left feeling parched or greasy.
- Use broad spectrum sunscreen everyday that protects against UV rays.
Summer Care:
- Select non comedogenic, sweat resistant sunscreens in case of clogging pores.
- Use gel based moisturizers and facial mists to keep your skin hydrated.
- Don’t use harsh exfoliants and sun sensitivity intensifying products.
Autumn Care:
- As the air gets drier, move on to thicker moisturizers.
- Add in hydrating serums, like those featuring hyaluronic acid, to help seal in moisture.
- Hot water on your skin can deplete natural oils, so avoid it.
Winter Care:
- Fighting dryness, use rich, oil based creams and moisturizers.
- Keep things moist by investing in a humidifier.
- Cover your skin with scarves and gloves against a cold wind.
Tips for Sensitive Skin (Diet and Lifestyle)
There is a distinct difference between skincare as direct application to our skin and skincare as what you consume and live. Year-round, it is important to stay hydrated to keep skin’s elasticity or decrease dryness. Lastly, add foods that are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with omega-3 fatty acids that support skin health. An added example is to eat leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and fatty fish. For personalized advice scheduling appointments with the best dermatologists can make a significant difference.
Skin sensitivity can also worsen under stress. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or exercise are practiced to keep stress in check. It’s also important to be getting enough sleep, as that’s when your skin repairs itself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
And many people don’t know that some mistakes they make actually make their sensitive skin problems worse. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Without adjusting seasonally to your seasonal needs, you use the same products year round.
- For instance, using harsh cleansers or exfoliators more than you should can strip a skin’s protective barrier.
- Using sunscreen only in the summer or on sunny days, but not during the winter or on cloudy days.
- Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer, at least according to that assumption.
When to See a Dermatologist
Fortunately, with a proper routine, many can treat sensitive skin issues, but there are also times in which it requires professional help. If redness doesn’t go away, is very persistent, or flaking is severe or not improved with home care, you may need to consult a dermatologist. In addition to treating your condition, a dermatologist can suggest makeup or other products that are right for your skin.
Conclusion
Seasonal changes can have a very big effect on sensitive skin, who need special care. Learning how your skin changes with each season, and being proactive during this change, can decrease irritation and leave your skin healthier all year long. Do not forget to adjust your routine accordingly, trying to keep your skin hydrated and nourished and staying away from all kinds of common skincare mistakes. If taken with care and consistency, you can protect your skin and make sure it stays radiant regardless of season.
