Summer was wild, your skin was glowing, and now… it’s confused.
Sun, sea, sweat, SPF — your skin’s been through it. And while that golden glow looked great on the ‘gram, your barrier might be begging for a little rehab.
Here’s the truth: after summer, your skin is drier, thinner, and more reactive than you think. UV exposure breaks down collagen, salty water strips natural oils, and let’s not even talk about sand as exfoliant (don’t do it, bestie).
So, what now?
1. Give your barrier a break
Post-summer skin is barrier-compromised. That means more redness, flakiness, and product sensitivity. Step one: ditch the 5-step acid routine. Instead, feed your skin with ceramides, omega oils, and humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
Think: comfort over drama.
2. Add back what summer took away
Hydration is your new religion. UV and heat accelerate transepidermal water loss (TEWL) that’s science talk for “your skin is dehydrated AF.”
Look for products that combine water-binding ingredients (like hyaluronic acid) with moisture-sealing oils (like jojoba, hemp or squalane).
3. Fade the summer souvenirs (aka sunspots)
If you’ve spotted new pigmentation, don’t panic. It’s common post-summer. But now’s the time to gently introduce brightening ingredients like niacinamide, azelaic acid, or vitamin C.
Skip the harsh peels. Your skin’s still recovering. Be gentle but consistent.
4. Switch textures like you switch outfits
That lightweight gel that worked in July? Probably won’t cut it in September. Time to transition to richer creams and nourishing serums, just like you’re trading tank tops for knits.
Skin has seasons too.
5. Be sun-smart (yes, still)
Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean the UV party stopped. UVA rays are around all year and they’re the main driver of ageing. So yes, you still need SPF — every. single. day.
Cloudy? Still need it.
Wearing a scarf? Still need it.
Final thought
Your skin’s been showing up for you all summer. Now’s the time to show up for it.
A little repair, a little nourishment, a little patience — and you’ll walk into autumn not just glowing, but thriving.