Expert-approved skincare tweaks to quickly improve 'seasonal shift' skin problems

As autumn slowly starts to arrive with the darker nights drawing in and the temperature slowly dropping - there are a few ways we transition into the colder seasons, including your skincare routine.

With the change in weather, it can have an impact on our skin. The colder climate can cause dryness for many, and it's the perfect time for a 'repair-focused' regime,

September is the perfect time for a reset, and Dr Ellie Jolly, skincare expert and founder of The Ilkley Skin Clinic shares some top tips on the simple skincare routine amendments we should be making right now.

"Summer skincare is generally focused on protection and control, whereas autumn presents an ideal opportunity to repair and deeply hydrate the skin," explains Dr Ellie. "As we move into cooler months, our skincare priorities need to shift accordingly."

Firstly, the expert recommends switching to a gentler cleanser. “Swap to a more hydrating or cream-based cleanser to avoid stripping the skin's natural oils as the air becomes drier. This gentler approach helps maintain the skin's protective barrier during the transitional period.”

The Inkey List Cream-to-Milk Cleanser (£13)is the perfect gentle cleanser that assists in maintaining balanced skin. Helping to provide all-day hydration and to plump the complexion, this facial cleanser removes makeup, pollution and impurities. With rice milk as the main ingredient, the cleanser works to soften the skin and helps create a robust skin barrier.

Secondly, Dr Ellie encourages to boost hydration and barrier repair. "Increasing hydration becomes crucial as we enter autumn. To do this, incorporate ingredients such as ceramides, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acids into your moisturisers and serums to support barrier repair and maintain your skin’s optimal health.”

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L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Serum (£31.99) is packed with Hyaluronic Acid and the serum deeply hydrates skin, leaving skin visibly plumper & fine lines reduced. With a smooth, non-greasy and non-sticky texture, the formula absorbs quickly so it can be layered with your regular day or night care regime.

Next, the expert advises to reintroduce retinoids into skincare and said: "Autumn presents an excellent opportunity to either reintroduce or introduce retinoids into your skincare routine. Since your skin is less exposed to strong sun during these months, it's an ideal time to incorporate these powerful anti-aging ingredients. They can also be fantastic at removing any pigmentation caused by sun exposure, and help to repair sun damage.”

TheMedik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Stable Retinal Night Serum (£45)is a great addition as it designed to deliver fast results without causing irritation. With its ground-breaking retinaldehyde formula, this serum works faster than traditional retinol to deliver smoother, firmer skin. Designed for sensitive skin or those new to vitamin A, it addresses the signs of ageing, such as fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone, to leave the skin looking and feeling more youthful.

Alternatively, the Paula's Choice1% Retinol Treatment (£15) in the travel size is a good option for those wanting to try a retinol without buying a full size product. The advanced 1% retinol formula is packed with skin-supportive peptides and vitamin C that smooths wrinkles and firms the skin, visibly reducing signs of ageing.

Finally, Dr Ellie urges everyone to still maintain sun protection despite the change in weather. She said: “Despite the seasonal change, it’s really important to still wear SPF, regardless of the time of year. No matter what the temperature, it’s vital that we protect our skin from UV rays, which are still just as present during the autumn and winter months.”