Seasonal skin - how our skin reacts to the climate

From hot humid summers to icy cold winters, our skin has to put up with a lot as far as the climate is concerned. Skin will react to different weather conditions and environmental factors. 

Sudden changes of temperature, whether that be hot or cold, or environmental changes such as going from dry to humid, our skin may respond by exacerbating existing skin conditions or present new ones. It is important to pay attention to your skin as the seasons change, and alter your skincare routine accordingly.

Autumn and Winter

As we move through autumn and head into winter, the weather changes to colder conditions. Autumn and winter weather can play havoc with our skin, cold icy winds will strip moisture out leaving your skin feeling tight, itchy, and dry, giving it a dull, flaky appearance.  

When the weather is cold, humidity is low which dries skin out. Skin problems such as eczema can flare up during these conditions. Avoiding hot baths and try not to soak for too long, always use a mild soap that is gentle on your skin, this will minimise eczema outbreaks and help soothe skin. 

Caring Everyday has this advice, “Keep the risk of spider veins and inflammation to a minimum by wrapping up warm in the cold and not overdoing it on the central heating to reduce the temperature difference between indoors and outside. A light layer of barrier cream will help protect the skin, and products with anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant ingredients such as chamomile and green tea should help control any redness.”

During the autumn and winter, it is still important to protect your skin against damaging UVB and UVA rays from the sun. Always wear a moisturiser with a minimum of SPF 30, even if the weather is cold and cloudy.

Spring and Summer

In spring and summer temperatures are higher, this may cause the oil-producing glands (sebaceous glands) in your skin to produce more oil. The excess oil will combine with sweat giving your skin a shiny appearance. When the air holds a lot of humidity, it will cause your pores to open which means your skin is susceptible to dirt, oil and allergens. 

Excess oil production, dirt and perspiration can also cause skin problems like acne or even trigger heat rash. Heat rash happens when sweat glands get closed off trapping moisture underneath the skin's surface, this results in your skin becoming inflamed with red bumps and blisters. 

During warmer months, opt for a gel or foam cleanser to remove the excess sweat and oil from your skin, also change to a lighter moisturiser, or if your skin is oilier a serum may be a better option. 

Dehydrating can be an issue for skin during hotter months. The warmer it gets the more we sweat, the more we sweat the more dehydrated we become, this will show on our skin. Dehydrated skin will look red and make it feel dry and tight, so always keep topped up with water during hot weather.