In our beautiful part of the country, there is no way to ignore the dance of Autumn. Fall is one of those times of year when we are treated to changing colors and scenery; cooler air but not so cold we just want to stay indoors. With all the joys of the season, and the impending hussle and bustle of the Winter holidays, it can be easy to forget how important it is to revamp your skin care routine.

Cool means dry, and you know what that means
A change from the warm summer weather can mean more time outdoors. It can also mean more time in hot showers, the jacuzzi, and more time in the house with a heater running. The air is dryer in the cool-weather months, and piling on the comforting heat can only exacerbate the damage that dryness can do to the skin.

Hands may get chapped (and the lips, too), and the skin on the arms and legs may start to look scaly or bumpy, and may begin to itch. These are all signs that your skin care needs to change. One way to soothe irritated skin is to reach for a thicker moisturizer. Think body butter instead of lotion. While you’re at it, though, remember that scented products may contain alcohol, and alcohol will dry the skin.

Beware that Sunburn!
Research suggests that there is actually a higher risk for sunburn during the Fall months. This makes a lot of sense, too. We naturally equate warm weather with sunburn risk. So, naturally, when the weather cools down, we may feel safe hitting the hills for biking and hiking without the protection of sunscreen. This is where we put ourselves at risk. A kinder climate can be deceiving. Make sure you continue your use of sunscreen anytime you are outside.

Direct Effects of Cool Air
Our skin is very responsive to environmental factors, climate being one of them. Warm weather opens up the pores in the skin and encourages oil production. Cool weather does the opposite; it causes the pores to close up and blood flow to constrict. This reaction to cooler air could mean that cellular turnover slows down, and you lose that beautiful glow.

In addition to using pampering skin care products that are appropriate for the season, you can visit our Denver office or Medspa for refreshing treatments that nourish your skin. Call (303) 839-1616.