It may surprise you to know that the skin does not actually produce that much more oil in the summertime, although humidity excess perspiration and sunscreen can make you feel a bit slippery. As a result, many people tend to use stronger cleansers and oil-controlling products to help cut through the greasy feeling. However, when temperatures drop in the fall and winter months we tend to spend more time indoors in heated buildings or in front of the fireplace and your skin can indeed become drier, under those conditions. The products designed for oily skin that worked well for you in the summer, can now exacerbate the winter dryness problem that you skin is now experiencing. So what to do?
The best plan of attack when the weather starts to change is to use a gentle, non-soap based cleanser and follow-up with an alcohol-free hydrating toner if your skin still feels oily. Don’t forget to end with a good, rich, non-occlusive moisturizer. Regardless of what season we are in or what type of weather we are having, always end with an oil and chemical free sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 25.
Carol Donnelly is a Licensed Esthetician. Her practice Dermal Solutions is located at 28073 Smyth Drive in Valencia. Dermal Solutions offers free, private consultations by appointment at 661-295-0027.