Consider a cream cleanser

If you switched to a gel cleanser for summer like many of us did, it might be time to go back to something with a little more heft as the weather cools down. A creamier cleanser is less drying on the skin and won’t strip the skin of its natural moisture. Try Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution ($34), a rich, creamy cleanser that works to lift impurities while helping to maintain skin’s moisture levels no matter how cold it gets.

Dial up hydration

As temperatures start to drop, so can the moisture level in our skin, which means it’s time to focus on hydration. If you were using a lighter lotion for spring and summer, you might want to add something creamier to your arsenal of moisture boosting products. Or, if you need a little something extra, we suggest adding a hydrating serum into the mix. Smooth a small amount on after cleansing but before your regular moisturizer to ensure skin stays supple.

Hit the spa

Regular spa treatments can get pricey, but it’s a good idea to invest in one as the seasons change so a skin care pro can analyze your complexion and guide you to the best routine for your skin type. Book a facial at your favorite spa (or ask friends for recommendations in your area) and you should get a fairly detailed analysis of your skin and what it needs. Ask questions about anything you’re not sure about and take full advantage of having an expert there to impart their skin-perfecting wisdom.

Exfoliate if you don’t already

Say goodbye to clogged pores and dull, lackluster skin. Start the new season off right by making sure to regularly exfoliate your skin (once or twice a week). Not only will you end up with a smoother, healthier, brighter complexion, but anything you put on your skin (like those serums we talked about) will be able to penetrate much easier when it doesn’t have to fight through a layer of dead skin cells. Ask a skin care professional what type of exfoliator is best for your skin type to avoid irritation.

Stay the sunscreen course

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you can pack away your sunscreen. On the contrary, there’s never a time when adequate sun protection should be overlooked. Remember to apply before heading out of the house even on cloudy days and use a broad spectrum product that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

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