Brisk mornings. Ordering the first steamy latte of the season. That blanket scarf you’ve really, really missed. It’s basically indisputable: Fall is wonderful. But while your heart is leaning into the dip in temperature, your skin is soaking up every last moment of humidity and vitamin D.
That’s because the shift from sticky days to milder ones is tough on your complexion. Dry, chillier air can exacerbate sensitivities, especially if you have eczema, acne, or moderate-to-severe psoriasis. So how do you bask in the joys of the season without all the skin woes? We tapped board certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, FAAD for advice.
From head to toe, Dr. King outlines the most common areas prone to skin irritation as the weather changes. Keep reading for a quick body scan, complete with her solutions for maintaining a comfortable and dewy complexion throughout the fall.
Scalp
“If you have a chronic skin condition like psoriasis, eczema, or seborrhea… it’s a good idea to check in for yearly maintenance to decrease the risk of a seasonal flare,” Dr. King says. “We say check your birthday suit on your birthday! If your birthday is not a time of year that works best for you, another date like your anniversary or a family member’s birthday
may…help you remember to get checked.”
Greetings to that autumn breeze you’ve dreamed of since Memorial Day. Crisp, cool air blowing through your mane is a welcome relief. But the effect it has on your scalp? Not so much.
The temperature shift can lead to itching and flaking on your crown. To ease your symptoms, Dr. King recommends adding shampoos made with pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide to your shower routine. While most over-the-counter anti-dandruff options include these ingredients, medicated shampoos are a great alternative, she says.
She also recommends leave-in treatments like deep conditioner and hair oils to restore and retain moisture. Turn it into a weekly nighttime ritual by massaging the treatment onto your scalp and through your wet hair after a soak in the tub. Then, wrap your hair in a silk bonnet or scarf to help it soak in overnight, and wash it out in the morning for softer strands and a soothed scalp.
The cooler seasons can affect your glowy countenance in a few ways. Drier air may cause eczema flare ups, irritation from your regularly-scheduled topical acne treatments, and chapped lips or cheeks.
So what’s the key to a dewy complexion, despite the elements? “Use heavier moisturizers that contain humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Using gentler cleansers that moisturize and support the skin barrier… and don’t strip your skin of oils… can also be helpful,” Dr. King says. “The use of potentially drying or irritating ingredients like hydroxy acids and retinoids may need to be decreased.”
Face
Derm Tip
With summer as a not-so-distant memory, look out for signs of sun damage during your fall skin check, Dr. King says. Beyond remedies like aloe vera, vitamin C, and vitamin E, topical brightening ingredients can help lessen discolorations worsened by sun exposure. Treatments are generally
more effective when time in the sun is minimal.
Derm Tip
If you’re experiencing itching or discomfort in less visible places, don’t be shy. Dryness and irritation on parts of the body where skin rubs together (known as intertriginous areas) are more common in the fall and winter.
“Psoriasis can sometimes have what we call an inverse distribution, where it affects areas like the armpits, groin and skin folds,” Dr. King says. “These areas are particularly delicate and can be difficult to treat topically.” She recommends connecting with your doctor if you notice symptoms.
Underarms
Extra hand-washing, cold breezes, and steamy showers… *oh my.* Your hands take some serious wear and tear when the weather gets cooler.
To help rejuvenate your hands overnight, try applying oils or creams before slipping on cotton gloves—or a clean pair of socks—to lock in moisture while you slumber.
A trickier spot to reach? Your nails, which Dr. King notes are often affected by psoriasis this time of year. They don’t always respond to topical treatments, so she recommends contacting your doctor for a check-in if you notice signs of irritation or experience discomfort. With a long winter ahead, your precious paws will thank you.
Hands and Nails
The seasonal swap from breezy sundresses to sweaters and jeans keeps you covered up and cozy—but it also reintroduces skin-to-fabric friction that’s less common throughout the summer. If you deal with dry skin or moderate-to-severe psoriasis, this friction can create flare ups anywhere clothing hugs tightly, like your elbows and knees.
Alongside a rotation of flowy pants (looking at you, loungewear lovers), topical treatments and lots of skin hydration can provide relief. “Moisturizers may need to be heavier—more ingredients with emollient and occlusive properties,” Dr. King says. “And these ingredients can still be non-comedogenic so they will be fine for acne-prone skin.”
Elbows and Knees
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Brisk mornings. Ordering the first steamy latte of the season. That blanket scarf you’ve really, really missed. It’s basically indisputable: Fall is wonderful. But while your heart is leaning into the dip in temperature, your skin is soaking up every last moment of humidity and vitamin D.
That’s because the shift from sticky days to milder ones is tough on your complexion. Dry, chillier air can exacerbate sensitivities, especially if you have eczema, acne, or moderate-to-severe psoriasis. So how do you bask in the joys of the season without all the skin woes? We tapped board certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, FAAD for advice.
From head to toe, Dr. King outlines the most common areas prone to skin irritation as the weather changes. Keep reading for a quick body scan, complete with her solutions for maintaining a comfortable and dewy complexion throughout the fall.
Derm Check: Winter Edition
Greetings to that autumn breeze you’ve dreamed of since Memorial Day. Crisp, cool air blowing through your mane is a welcome relief. But the effect it has on your scalp? Not so much.
The temperature shift can lead to itching and flaking on your crown. To ease your symptoms, Dr. King recommends adding shampoos made with pyrithione zinc or selenium sulfide to your shower routine. While most over-the-counter anti-dandruff options include these ingredients, medicated shampoos are a great alternative, she says.
She also recommends leave-in treatments like deep conditioner and hair oils to restore and retain moisture. Turn it into a weekly nighttime ritual by massaging the treatment onto your scalp and through your wet hair after a soak in the tub. Then, wrap your hair in a silk bonnet or scarf to help it soak in overnight, and wash it out in the morning for softer strands and a soothed scalp.
Scalp
Derm Tip
Derm Tip
