Fall Skincare Essentials for Women of Color

With fall in full swing (one of my favorite times of the year), it’s time to rethink your skincare routine. The cooler weather can impact your skin in ways that might exacerbate common concerns like dryness, hyperpigmentation, and even acne. So transitioning your skincare routine to suit the season is crucial, especially for women of color who needs that extra attention during seasonal changes.

Here you're going to get all the deets on three essentials to keep in your skincare toolbox to keep your skin hydrated, glowing and healthy as the weather cools down.

1. Switch to a Richer Moisturizer

As the air becomes drier, your skin may lose moisture more rapidly, leading to dehydration and dryness. For women of color, this can trigger flakiness, dullness, and even an increase in dark spots. Switching to a richer, more hydrating moisturizer is key to keeping your skin barrier intact. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to lock in moisture without clogging pores.

2. Don’t Forget the SPF

Okay ladies, just because summer is over doesn’t mean you should ditch your sunscreen! UV rays can still penetrate the skin even on cloudy days, which can worsen hyperpigmentation and lead to premature aging.  Yes, sunscreen is a year round thing!  Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin year-round.

3. Fall is Perfect for Exfoliation

With the cooler months, it’s a great time to focus on exfoliation. A gentle exfoliating routine helps to remove dead skin cells, brighten the complexion, and even out skin tone. Look for chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or mandelic acid that are gentle but effective on melanin-rich skin.  You can also opt for a plant-based physical exfoliants that won't cause micro-tears on the skin.  Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to irritation or worsen hyperpigmentation and reserve exfoliating to 1-2 times a week.

The key here is adjusting your skincare routine to accommodate your skin during the weather change.  This adjustment can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels. Whether you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, dryness, or acne, these simple shifts in your regimen will help keep your skin healthy and glowing all season long.

Stock up on fall skincare essentials, your skin with thank you!