Fall Skincare Routine: Dermatologist-Approved Tips

As the weather cools down, it’s time to rethink your skincare. A fall skincare routine helps keep skin hydrated and protected as the seasons change.

Dry air and heated indoor spaces can weaken your skin barrier, causing tightness, irritation, and flakiness. The solution? Adjust your products and practices as you shift from summer to fall.

Below, Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery, shares dermatologist-approved tips for a simple and effective skincare routine.

Prioritize Hydration

Dr. Kopelman recommends switching to a gentle, hydrating cleanser and a richer moisturizer. Products with hyaluronic acid or ceramides help restore moisture and support your skin barrier during colder seasons.

We love Oakwell Cosmetics Beer Body Lotion for full-body moisture. It’s made with shea butter, coconut oil, and sweet almond oil to hydrate and revitalize the skin.

Protect Your Lips & Hands

Lips and hands are the first to show dryness, explains Dr. Kopelman. Use a protective balm and hand cream to prevent cracking and irritation.

Oakwell Cosmetics Peppermint Hop Lip Balm is our go-to for lip hydration. It’s organic, hydrating, and has a touch of menthol for a refreshing tingle.

Gentle Cleansing

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to dryness during the fall, harsh cleansers can make it worse. Dr. Kopelman recommends switching to a moisturizing cleanser to avoid stripping the skin of hydrating oils.

Our favorite moisturizing body wash is Oakwell Cosmetics Beer Body Wash because it’s made with gentle, hydrating ingredients, including hops, barley, and goat’s milk. It smells great, too!

Avoid Overwashing

Washing too often and using hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and damage the skin barrier. Limit baths to 10-20 minutes, once or twice weekly, and take lukewarm showers. Moisturize right after bathing to lock in hydration and protect your skin.

Continue Using SPF

Cooler weather doesn’t mean weaker sun. Dr. Kopelman reminds us that UVA rays are present year-round. These rays contribute to dry skin, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even in your fall skincare routine. 

Treat Summer Skin Issues

Fall is the perfect time to treat lingering sun damage. Dr. Kopelman recommends using products with antioxidants, like vitamin C, to brighten dark spots and retinoids to improve texture and pigmentation. 

You can also get in-office treatments, such as chemical peels or microneedling, to help nourish your skin after summer.

Follow a Simple Fall Skincare Routine

Dr. Kopelman encourages a simple routine because consistency is more effective than layering on too many products. The fewer the products and ingredients, the better.

Here’s a basic summer-to-fall skincare routine for healthy skin:

• Cleanse - Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Avoid products that make your skin feel tight, which signals harshness. A sulfate-free cleanser is ideal.
• Toner (optional) - Toner isn’t essential, but it can refresh and add extra ingredients. Oakwell Cosmetics Cucumber & Aloe Toner Mist is an alcohol-free, hydrating formula made with cucumber, aloe, and hops.
• Moisturize - Moisturizer is non-negotiable. Look for barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides or glycerin. Heavier creams are good for dry skin, while lightweight lotions work better for oily or acne-prone skin types. For sensitive skin, look for a fragrance-free moisturizer with calming ingredients like ceramides or glycerin.
• SPF - Apply sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days, to protect against UVA damage that continues year-round.
• Face Oil (optional) - Not everyone needs face oil, but it can add glow and lock in hydration. Oakwell Cosmetics Hop-Infused Oil nourishes both skin and beards.

Fall Skincare Routine: FAQs

Make the most of your fall skincare routine with answers to common questions below.

How to prepare your skin for fall?

To prepare your skin for fall, use gentle, moisturizing products and antioxidant serums. You should also avoid overcleansing and continue using SPF.

Does fall cause dry skin?

Fall can cause dry skin because cold weather can strip your skin of moisture. Dry indoor heat and low humidity levels can also contribute to dryness.

Why is my skin so dry even when I moisturize?

If your skin is dry, even after moisturizing, you might be using the wrong type of moisturizer or over-cleansing. Long, hot showers and harsh products also play a role. 

Try making one change at a time to your routine and give it a week or two to see if it's effective. If dryness persists, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Fall Skincare Routine: Conclusion

A fall skincare routine helps your skin adjust to cooler weather. Focus on hydration, gentle cleansing, and consistent SPF use. Treat summer sun damage with antioxidants and keep your regimen simple. These dermatologist-approved steps will help your skin stay healthy and radiant throughout the season.