Get Your Skin (and Body) Ready for Fall and Winter

As the seasons change, so do the needs of your skin. The crisp fall air and colder winter months often bring drier conditions that can leave your skin feeling tight, flaky, and less radiant. Now is the perfect time to start transitioning your skincare and nutrition routines to support not only a glowing complexion but also a strong immune system for the months ahead.

1. Switch to a Creamier Cleanser

In summer, gel or foaming cleansers can feel refreshing, but as humidity drops, they may strip your skin of essential oils. Swap them for a gentle, creamy cleanser that cleans without over-drying. This helps maintain your skin barrier—the key to soft, healthy skin all winter long.

2. Add a Facial Oil or Heavier Moisturizer

Even if your skin isn’t naturally dry, incorporating a facial oil or richer moisturizer can prevent seasonal dehydration. Look for products with ingredients like ceramides, squalane, or jojoba oil, which mimic your skin’s natural oils and lock in hydration.

3. Nourish Your Skin from the Inside Out

Healthy skin starts deeper than your moisturizer. Support it from within by focusing on nutrients that also boost your immune system:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts) help keep skin supple and reduce inflammation.

• Vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers, berries) supports collagen production and strengthens your immune defenses.

• Zinc (pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils) is essential for skin healing and helps your body fight off seasonal bugs.

• Probiotics (yogurt, kefir, or fermented foods) help balance your gut—where much of your immune system lives—which can impact both skin health and your body’s resilience.

4. Manage Stress for Healthier Skin and Immunity

Season changes can bring busy schedules, holiday planning, and added stress—all of which can impact your skin and lower your immune defenses. Incorporate stress-reducing habits like gentle movement (yoga or walking), deep breathing exercises, or even just 10 minutes a day of quiet time. Lowering cortisol (your stress hormone) helps reduce breakouts, improves your skin’s ability to repair itself, and keeps your immune system strong.

5. Don’t Forget Hydration

Cooler weather can make you forget to drink enough water, but hydration is key for skin elasticity and overall health. Herbal teas and water-rich fruits like oranges or pomegranates are great seasonal options.

By making small shifts now—adjusting your skincare, focusing on nourishing foods, managing stress, and staying hydrated—you’ll set yourself up for healthy, glowing skin and a strong immune system all season long.