How to Change Skincare Routines for Fall, According to Dermatologists

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It’s easy to fall into the trap of never changing your skincare routine. After all, if it works, why mess with a good thing? But according to dermatologists, it’s beneficial to change up your skincare routine throughout the year with seasonally appropriate products. And with fall’s cooler weather kicking in, now’s an important time to make some switches.

Why is this time crucial? “Cold, dry, and windy weather with little humidity leaves our facial skin in particular exposed to the elements,” London-based dermatologist Anjali Mahto tells InStyle. This is why dry, sensitive, and irritated skin is so prevalent in chiller months. “This is compounded by the fact that we put on the central heating, which dries the skin out further, as well as hot baths and showers, which will strip moisture from the skin,” she adds.

Since there are so many skincare products on the market, we asked four dermatologists to share what they would add to a skincare routine for fall so that you don’t have to spend hours searching. Shop their recommendations starting at just $6 below.

Dr. Joshua Zeichner, New York-City Based Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon

“As the weather drops in the fall, I recommend adjusting your skincare routine just as you would your wardrobe,” Dr. Zeichner advises. He says to prioritize products with hydration and protection, especially in cleansers and moisturizers.

“In the summer, foaming or exfoliating cleansers are a great option to help remove oil that builds up on the skin. [But] these cleansers may overly dry out the skin in cooler weather. I recommend hydrating cleansers that leave the skin barrier hydrated and intact,” he specifies.

Dr. Zeichner also recommends adding hyaluronic acid into your routine to combat dry skin. He explains that hyaluronic acid is like a sponge that pulls in water to the skin’s outer layer. “It’s good at getting water where it needs to go, but not as good at keeping it there. So you should layer your hyaluronic acid serum under your moisturizer” to keep hydration locked in.