You change your wardrobe to accommodate the colder weather so why shouldn’t also change your skincare routine? Right?! Just like we need layers to keep us warm from cooler temps, we need to change our product layering routine to support our skin.

Knowing what your skin needs and when it needs it is half the battle to having a high-performing skincare routine. You spend time and money investing in your products so let’s make sure you’ve got the right ones to support your skin as it changes!

I’m sharing what I’ve learned from my own personal research and licensed professionals (like my esthetician Carolyn from Cake Skincare, who is a dream!) to support you in taking care of your skin this fall and winter.

A few hot tips before you dive in:

• The products listed below are clean and do not use PFA’s or harsh ingredients (like retinoids) and they are all high-performing. You don’t have to settle for harmful ingredients to get the results you want.
• There is no “one size fits all” skincare routine. Mixing and matching brands is allowed and encouraged. It can be just as effective as using a full regimen from the same brand. You’ll see how I mix and match below.
• Do I really need to do 3-4 steps for optimal results? Depending on your skin goals, you may need a multi-step routine until you meet your goals. At the very least, we all need a cleanser, a moisturizer, and sunscreen.
• A skincare routine should be FUN and something you look forward to at the beginning and end of the day. Delight in taking care of yourself. You deserve it!
• For those trying to conceive, pregnant, or nursing mamas: Everything, and I mean everything, listed below is safe and highly effective for you to use! Consult with your doctor before you use but know that I have vetted these options with my doctors and estheticians throughout those stages.
• Don’t have a skincare routine yet? Not sure what your skin type is? Take this skincare quiz to find out your skin type and products that best suit your skin.

FOR THE COOLER TEMPS OF FALL + WINTER

• Why should I change my routine for fall + winter? The cool temps will make the skin drier and more dehydrated which can then increase oils in the skin to make it more acne prone. Wind and rain can irritate the skin and exacerbate conditions like eczema or rosacea.
• So, what should I change?
  • Drink more water to increase hydration in your skin.
  • Use a hydrating cleanser. Opt for a cream or oil-based cleanser so it doesn’t strip your skin like a foaming cleanser can.
    • Countertime Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil
    • IS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser
  • Swap your moisturizer (day and night) for a thicker option. Thicker moisturizers will help lock in hydration.
    • AM: Counterstart Cocoboost Moisturizer
    • PM: Countertime Tetrapeptide Supreme Cream
  • Reduce how much you exfoliate. Exfoliating ingredients like AHAs, BHAs and glycolic acid all have great benefits but can be too harsh on your skin that’s already going through a lot during the day. Give your skin a break and exfoliate 1-2x per week instead of 3x per week.
• What can I keep using?
  • Sunscreen! Just because it’s not 80 degrees and sunny outside doesn’t mean you should stop using a daily SPF. Sunlight still penetrates through the clouds and SPF also protects against blue light from your computer, tablet, and phone. Sun damage is the #1 sign of aging and not wearing sunscreen will undo all the work (and $$$) you spend on your skincare routine.
    • Countersun Daily Sheer Defense for Face
    • iS Clinical Extreme Protect SPF 40
    • Note: Both of these options are great for people of color as neither or these options will leave a white cast on your skin. They blend beautifully with all skin tones!

MY CURRENT ROUTINE

• Cleanser (AM + PM)
  • IS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser
  • PM: I also use the Beautycounter Makeup Remover Wipes to remove my makeup before I cleanse.
• Serum
  • AM: Counter+ All Bright C Serum (anti-inflammatory, brightens, diminishes dark spots and fine lines, and protects from environmental pollutants)
  • PM: iS Clinical Active Serum (decreases appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, visibly evens skin tone, and is excellent for blemish-prone skin)
• Moisturizer
  • AM: Counterstart Cocoboost Moisturizer + Countersun Daily Sheer Defense for Face
  • PM: Countertime Tetrapeptide Supreme Cream
• Bonus! Eye Cream (AM + PM)
  • Countermatch Eye Rescue Cream

So tell me, what other questions do you have? Did you learn something new? I love sharing what I’ve learned so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Comment below and share your thoughts!