As summer winds down, many of us notice our skin changing with the seasons. The golden, sun-kissed glow that felt effortless in July can start to fade under drier conditions and cooler air. 

However, maintaining radiance into fall is possible; it simply requires adjusting your skincare to the new environment. Here’s how to keep that summer glow alive while protecting your skin as the weather shifts.

Woman looking out over a field of flowers making a peace symbol with her hand.

Transition Your Hydration Game

One of the most significant shifts from summer to fall is the drop in humidity, accompanied by more time spent indoors, where heating systems strip moisture from the air. The seasonal change can leave skin feeling dry, tight, and even flaky. To counter this, swap lightweight summer gels for richer creams or barrier-supportive formulas that lock in hydration.

Dermatologists recommend ingredients like ectoin, a powerhouse celebrated for strengthening the skin barrier. Experts increasingly highlight its ability to hydrate while shielding the skin from pollution and changing weather, making it an ideal addition to your fall skincare regimen. 

Embrace Skinimalism and Barrier Care

Fall is the best season to try the rising trend of “skinimalism.” The approach simplifies complicated routines and focuses on the essential steps of hydration, repair, and protection, rather than layering multiple actives that could irritate in drier weather. Concentrate on barrier care with nourishing serums and supportive moisturizers.

By simplifying your regimen, you allow the skin to repair itself while keeping its natural radiance. Think of it as giving your skin a reset. With fewer products, you can reap more meaningful results.

Layer Smart: Peptides, Vitamin C, and Sun Protection

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean it’s time to ditch antioxidants or SPF. Vitamin C should remain a cornerstone for maintaining radiance, as it brightens skin and helps counter lingering sun exposure from the warmer months. Always follow with sunscreen, even in cooler weather, since UV rays remain strong year-round.

When layering actives, consider introducing peptides for skin after vitamin C to support collagen and firmness while enhancing barrier resilience. Peptides have emerged as one of the standout ingredients of the year, thanks to their ability to “communicate” with skin cells and encourage them to repair and strengthen themselves. They help improve texture and calm inflammation to keep skin looking healthy and luminous.

Adapt with Science-Driven, Long-Term Treatments (Even at Home)

Skincare has moved towards longevity and science-backed solutions in recent years. You don’t need to splurge on in-office procedures – there are plenty of advanced options available for at-home care. Multitasking serums that combine hydration, antioxidants, and barrier repair are a smart way to maintain glow while streamlining your routine.

Science-driven treatments from a peptide-enriched serum or a multi-active cream help ensure your glow is sustainable year-round. Embracing multi-benefit products makes it easier to stay consistent during seasonal transitions.