Dermatologists Reveal the Skincare Swaps Every Woman Should Make This Fall

A few thoughtful tweaks can make all the difference once sweater weather arrives. Here's what two leading dermatologists recommend to keep your skin calm, comfortable, and glowing.

Did you know that your skin's needs shift along with the seasons? You've likely noticed it yourself as the heat and humidity of summer fade and the cool, frosty breeze of fall starts to roll in.

As temperatures drop and the heating kicks on indoors, skin can quickly start to feel tight, parched, and sensitive.

The featherlight serums that gave you a dewy glow all summer might soon stop pulling their weight, and certain ingredients, like retinol and exfoliating acids, can make dryness even worse.

The good news? You don't have to overhaul your entire collection. Transitioning your skincare routine from summer to fall really only requires swapping two, maybe three products to suit your skin's needs as the air turns crisper and drier.

Swap Your Lightweight Lotion for a Richer Moisturizer

Moisturizer is the main swap, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Marchbein, who explains that skin needs extra hydration at this time of year because humidity levels in the air plummet.

"Instead of using a lighter oil-free lotion like many do in the summer, opt for a thicker, heavier moisturizing cream," she tells Youth to the People. "Look for ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, among others, in the list of ingredients."

"Where a serum [for example containing vitamin C or hyaluronic acid] may have done the job for you in the summer, you might like to use the same ingredient in moisturizer form in the fall and winter," says dermatologist Dr. Alia Ahmed.

Since serums are very lightweight in texture, Dr. Ahmed suggests they might not be substantial enough to keep your skin moisturized once the drying weather hits.

Trade Harsh Cleansers for Gentle Formulas

"Use a gentle cleanser," Dr. Marchbein says of adapting your cleansing habits as the cooler months set in. Essentially, you'll want to avoid anything harsh or stripping, as it will only dry out your skin further and can lead to irritation and flaking.

Instead, opt for a pH-balanced formula that you trust to keep your skin happy in every season. Dr. Ahmed also recommends switching to a creamy cleanser to prevent further dryness and advises steering clear of foaming formulas.

"The added ingredients which make them nice and foamy are usually the ones which end up removing some of the natural oils on your skin," she explains.

For a budget-friendly fix, she recommends blending your current foaming cleanser with a small amount of moisturizer (the simpler the formula, the better) to soften that tight, stripped sensation.

Scale Back on Exfoliation

Exfoliation still matters in the fall, but it should be handled with care. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin, especially when it's already vulnerable to environmental stress.

Instead of daily scrubs or potent acids, aim to exfoliate gently once or twice a week, adjusting based on your skin type. Softer ingredients such as lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) can revive a dull complexion without leaving it parched.

Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen

"We're exposed to much more intense rays than ever before," she says, citing a study by the American Academy of Dermatology highlighting the importance of sun protection.

"Climate change is causing more sun damage and driving skin conditions," she adds. "I say to my patients that if they can see in front of them, it means they need to wear SPF — unless it's nighttime in a dark room with the door closed."

No matter the forecast or your skin tone, sunscreen remains your best defense against the sun all year long. And if your complexion tends to run extra dry, especially during seasonal shifts, working a facial oil into your routine could give it a welcome boost.