Fall can be an unforgiving time for your skin. As the weather cools down and the hard winds begin to blow, it’s common for skin to react negatively to these seasonal changes. This can lead to dryness, blemishes and other unpleasant skin imperfections.

Breakouts can actually increase during the fall season due to layers of dead skin cells that buildup due to the cooler weather. The dead skin can trap oil and bacteria beneath the surface of the skin, which often leads to an increase in breakout activity. In addition to this, your skin may start to require more hydration than normal due to a condition known as “summer aftershock.”  This occurs when the skin is left damaged or burned due to overexposure to the Sun during the hot summer months.

So for our latest Dear #AYA^™ entry, we’ve decided to focus on some tips and skincare products that can help your skin make a smooth transition from summer to fall. Proper fall skincare doesn’t require a full overhaul of your skincare routine; just a few minor tweaks to help ensure that your skin stays healthy as the leaves start to fall.

Dear #AYA,

Lately I’ve been dealing with some pretty intense skin dryness. I’ve tried some lotions and moisturizers, but haven’t had any real success. Any recommendations?

Sincerely,

Itching for an Answer 

Dear Itching for an Answer,

Hydration is a commonly overlooked, but still important step in any successful skin-care regimen. Using an Alcohol-free skin toner like Obagi Nu-Derm^® Toner can be a great way to provide your skin the moisture and hydration it so desperately needs in the fall, when cooler temperatures can lead to dryness. Skin cells need moisture to live and wiping an alcohol-free toner over your skin after cleansing is a simple, effective way to lock in this essential moisture.

 

Dear #AYA,

I am seeking exfoliation for my face. A chemical peel was recommended to me, but I’d prefer something a bit more natural? Are there chemical-free treatments you could suggest?

Sincerely,

Keeping It Natural 

Dear Keeping It Natural,

You’re in luck. Chemical peels are highly effective, but we can understand if you are seeking a more natural exfoliation treatment. Might we suggest microdermabrasion? Microdermabrasion can help reduce blemishes like wrinkles, scars and sun damage. Treatments are effective, chemical-free and require no downtime for recovery.

 

Dear #AYA,

A friend of mine told me that she has taken to wearing sunscreen year round to protect her skin. I thought this seemed a bit excessive myself, but is there really a need to keep using sunscreen even after summer ends?

Sincerely,

Cautiously Curious 

Dear Cautiously Curious,

While you may associate sunscreen with summertime, a tremendous amount of UV damage can still be incurred during the fall season if you’re not careful. Despite the cooler temperatures, the sun’s UV rays are just as strong in the autumn as they are in thick of summer. Applying a protective sunscreen like Revision^® Skincare Multi-Protection SPF 50 can help minimize sun damage and wrinkles and even reduce your risk of potential skin cancer.

Hopefully these answers were helpful. If you have any additional questions about fall skincare and what you can do to ensure the smoothest, healthiest skin, you’re always welcome to schedule a complimentary skincare analysis at AYA^™. Our expert staff will do their best to provide you with the products and treatments you’ll need to look and feel your best all fall long. To schedule your complimentary skincare analysis, please contact AYA^™ Medical Spa today or pop in to any of our three Alpharetta or Atlanta area locations (Avalon, Phipps Plaza, Northside).