As the seasons change, so does our beauty routine. From moisturisers to scents, we may want to switch up our fundamentals to match the cooler weather. However, there is one item that needs to be a constant, year-round: sunscreen.
According to Cancer Council, it’s a common myth that you don’t need SPF during the autumn or winter months, when we experience cloudy and cooler weather. But a cool or overcast day can still have similar UV levels to a warm, sunny day — meaning we need to keep-up our sun safe routine, which includes SPF, as well as wearing a hat and protective shades whenever the UV is 3 or above.
Furthermore, some may think their SPF cosmetics are enough to suffice for sun safety in autumn and winter — but this is not the case, either. Some cosmetics don’t include enough SPF. You’ll still need that SPF 30+ to ensure your skin is protected.
When it comes to an Autumn beauty routine, embrace your natural skin by keeping it hydrated and sun protected. The reason we reach for the sun protection is to limit the harmful effects of UV damage, which includes cosmetic harms, such as signs of ageing, as well as skin cancer.
Here are some other beauty tips to get you through the cooler months.
Autumn Beauty Tips
Hydrate:
As the weather gets cooler, the air becomes drier, which can lead to dehydrated skin. Make sure to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Then invest in some heavy-hitting face and body moisturisers to assist. Speaking of…
Switch to a richer moisturiser:
Transition from lighter lotions to thicker creams to provide your skin with extra hydration during the cooler months. Look for moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter.
Don’t forget sunscreen:
Even though the sun may not feel as intense in the autumn, UV rays can still damage your skin. Continue to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, especially if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
Exfoliate regularly:
Dead skin cells can accumulate more quickly in the autumn due to fluctuating temperatures and drier air. Incorporate gentle exfoliation into your skincare routine to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin underneath.
Protect your lips:
Cooler weather can lead to dry, chapped lips. Use a nourishing lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun and keep them moisturised.
Add a facial oil at night:
Facial oils can provide an extra layer of hydration and protection for your skin during the autumn months. Look for oils rich in antioxidants, such rosehip oil, to help repair and nourish your skin.
Wear a hat and shades:
To ensure your skin is sun-safe in autumn and winter, continue to don a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for added protection, as well as your daily SPF.
