A Skin Care Guide by Season to Loving Your Skin Year-Round

Everyone’s skin is different. And your skin may also need different things throughout the year. So, while there are some tried and true methods for skin care, our experts at Bend Dermatology created this skin care guide by season to help you all year long.

Winter Skin Care Guide

While you’re bundling up in layers to enjoy skiing or hiking outdoors, you’ll also want to take special care of your skin because it can often dry out in winter.

DO:

Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize. A cream or ointment may be better in the winter months (instead of your usual lotion that may work well when it’s warmer or more humid in the summer months). It’s also a good idea to use moisturizers that have a lipid barrier and hyaluronic acid. Talk to your Skin Care Provider about what might work best for you when it comes to products as well.

Still Lather on the Sunscreen. Just because it’s not hot outside, it doesn’t mean that UV rays won’t burn or damage your skin in the cold winter months. Whether it’s sunny, cloudy, rainy, or snowy, the sun’s rays still reach your skin. Don’t forget that outdoor sports in the winter can be harsh on skin so it’s important to use a moisturizing, broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin, such as EltaMD sunscreens.

Take Care of Your Hands: You can protect your hands by wearing gloves to help keep the cold temps and dry air from bothering them. These harsh conditions can sometimes trigger eczema, too, if you suffer from it. Gloves can also help eliminate cracked and splitting cuticles and nails since winter can sometimes mean dry, brittle nails.

DON’T:

Overdo it With the Heat. You may be tempted to crank up the thermostat when you’re inside or take a long, hot shower to offset the chill in the air after being outside. However, central heat can make your skin even drier, so try to keep the temperature closer to 68 degrees instead of going higher. Instead, warm up with a cozy blanket or snuggle up by the fire.

Also, keeping your shower to 5-10 minutes will not only save a little water, it’ll keep from overheating your skin. Note that if your skin gets red, then the water is too hot for it. The American Association of Dermatologists (AAD) explains that keeping the temperature from being too hot in showers or baths can help keep your skin from drying out as much. That’s because hot water removes some of your skin’s natural oils.

Exfoliate Too Much. Since your skin usually dries out more in the winter, you may want to minimize the exfoliating you do. Your Skin Care Provider can help you figure out how much exfoliation is right for you and how often will work best for your skin.

Some Winter Treatments to Try: Give yourself a facial at home or talk to your Provider about getting injectables.

Spring Skin Care Guide

Warmer air and more humidity can mean your skin may be in for a bit of a shock as the weather changes. 

DO:

Keep the Moisture Coming. Moisturizing is still important in the spring. You may want to switch to a moisturizer that’s a little lighter once spring hits.

Spring Clean Your Skin Care Products. Old products can host bacteria which can cause clogged pores, so if you have any products that are more than six months old it may be time for a refresh. Also, it’s a good idea to wash your makeup brushes with soap and warm water every week or two to keep them from holding any build up that can transfer to your skin.

Get to Exfoliating: A gentle, natural exfoliating scrub can help get your skin glowing after those dry winter months.

DON’T:

Forget the Sunscreen. You may be seeing a trend here to use sunscreen. The bottom line is that you always want to make sure you’re using sunscreen every day.

Some Spring Treatments to Try: Microneedling can help open up the skin and allows it to better absorb products into a deeper level of the skin.

Summer Skin Care Guide

As temperatures heat up and the kids are out of school, your skin care can’t take a vacation.

DO:

Stay Hydrated. This is especially important in the warm summer months. Dehydration can wreak havoc on your body, including your skin. 

Go Lighter. Lighter serums often work better in summer, switching from those heavier moisturizing creams you need in the winter.

Reapply that Sunscreen Regularly. When you’re at the pool, having a picnic with the family, or just enjoying the outdoors in summer, make sure you reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours. If you’re swimming or working up a sweat, you may even need to reapply more often. 

Get Your Kids Skin Checked Out. When they’re out of school or home from college, it’s the perfect opportunity to make sure they get a skin exam, check out any skin issues or concerns, 

DON’T:

Sunbathe. This is a big no-no all year round, but summer vacations can make you want to lay out on the beach with that new novel or just relax and do nothing. Staying in the shade, sitting under an umbrella, or avoiding peak hours are all good ways to give your skin a break from the sunshine.

Forget About the Rest of Your Body. Your face is important – washing and caring for it. However, you don’t want to forget to exfoliate and treat your skin all over. Talk with your Skin Care Provider to see what products and treatments might be best for you.

Some Summer Treatments to Try: Look into BOTOX® Cosmetic injections to help freeze and prevent some of those lines and deep wrinkles on your face.

Fall Skin Care Guide

Just as the leaves are changing, your skin also changes as far as what it needs. 

DO:

Exfoliate and Moisturize. Applying moisturizer immediately after a shower or bath can seal in and replenish your skin. 

Start Giving Your Lips and Hands Special Attention Now. You can prep for the dry, cold winter months now by ensuring you moisturize and protect your lips from the sun. Also, start moisturizing your hands ahead of winter to keep them soft and healthy.

Go Ahead and Make the Move: Moving from lotions to creams in fall can also give you a jump start on winter and begin to provide a stronger oily barrier to keep your skin hydrated. 

DON’T:

Stop Applying the Sunscreen. As with every season, you’ll want to keep those UV rays away from your skin. Reapply it regularly, too, and wear protective clothing and gear when you’re enjoying the outdoors.

Some Fall Treatments to Try: Assess your skin care goals and start planning for end of year and next year. It’s never too early to take care of you!

Getting Your Annual Skin Exam

It’s really important to get a skin exam at least annually (pick your season!). Visit your Central Oregon Dermatologists to get an annual skin exam or talk about any treatments, skin care products, or concerns. You can make an appointment at our Bend Dermatology locations with an experienced Skin Care Provider.