Fall Skincare Routine: Protection Against Wind and Cold

© cottonbro studio

August 10, 2025

Lena Sämann

  • Beauty

Fall Skincare Routine: Protection Against Wind and Cold

With the right care routine, your skin remains supple and radiant even in wind, cold, and dry heating air – discover our expert tips for perfect autumn care.

Autumn not only brings colorful leaves and cozy evenings, but also special challenges for our skin. The dropping temperatures, cold wind, and dry heating air can weaken the skin barrier and lead to dryness, redness, and irritation. Adapted autumn skincare is therefore essential to keep the skin healthy and supple through the colder season.

Why does the skin need special care in autumn?

The transition period between summer and winter poses some challenges for the skin. The humidity drops dramatically, both outside and in heated rooms. At the same time, the sebaceous glands produce less oil, which weakens the skin's natural protective barrier. This combination leads to increased moisture loss, making the skin more susceptible to external influences.

Wind and cold additionally deprive the skin of moisture and can lead to micro-injuries. Particularly exposed areas such as the face, hands, and lips are affected and need intensive protection.

The optimal autumn skincare routine

Morning care routine

Gentle cleansing Start the day with a mild, creamy cleansing lotion instead of gel- or foam-based products. These remove less moisture from the skin and preserve the natural protective barrier.

Moisturizing serum Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to the still damp skin. Hyaluronic acid can hold 1000 times its weight in water and provides the skin with intensive moisture.

Rich day cream Switch from the light summer cream to a richer formulation with nourishing oils such as jojoba oil, argan oil or shea butter. These ingredients strengthen the skin barrier and protect against moisture loss.

Don't forget UV protection Even in autumn, sunscreen is important. UV rays can further damage already stressed skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

Evening regeneration

Double cleansing First remove make-up and sunscreen with a cleansing oil, followed by a mild cleansing lotion. This two-step cleansing removes all residues without overstraining the skin.

Intensive night care Night creams for autumn should be richer than the summer variants. Ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, and natural oils support nightly regeneration and strengthen the skin barrier.

Additional treatments Once or twice a week, you can apply a nourishing facial oil or an intensive moisturizing mask to pamper your skin.

Special care for exposed areas

Lip care in autumn

The lips have no sebaceous glands and are therefore particularly vulnerable to dryness and cracks. Use a nourishing lip balm with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin. Apply it regularly, especially before leaving the house.

Hand care against wind and cold

Hands are directly exposed to weather conditions and often show signs of dryness first. Use a rich hand cream after each hand wash and apply intensive care overnight. Gloves also protect against wind and cold.

Eye care for the delicate eye area

The skin around the eyes is particularly thin and needs special attention. A rich eye cream with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, or Retinol can prevent dryness lines and protect the sensitive area.

The right ingredients for autumn care

Moisturizers

  • Hyaluronic acid: Binds moisture and plumps the skin
  • Glycerin: Draws moisture from the environment to the skin
  • Aloe Vera: Soothes and moisturizes

Skin barrier strengthening agents

  • CeramidesRepair and strengthen the natural skin barrier
  • NiacinamideRegulates sebum production and strengthens barrier function
  • PanthenolSoothes irritations and promotes healing

Nourishing oils

  • Jojoba oilResembles natural skin sebum and absorbs well
  • Argan oil: Rich in vitamin E and essential fatty acids
  • Shea butter: Intensive care for very dry skin areas

Common autumn skin problems and their solutions

Dry, scaly skin

Problem: The skin feels rough and flakes. Solution: Use a gentle exfoliant once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells, then apply an intensive moisturizer.

Red, irritated skin

Problem: Wind and cold lead to redness and sensitivity. Solution: Use soothing ingredients like allantoin, bisabolol, or Centella Asiatica. Avoid products containing alcohol and strong fragrances.

Increased wrinkle formation

Problem: The dry air makes fine lines stand out more. Solution: Intensive moisturizing with hyaluronic acid and anti-aging ingredients like retinol or vitamin C can help.

Lifestyle tips for healthy autumn skin

Drink enough

Even though the feeling of thirst is less strong in autumn than in summer, you should drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day. Hydration from within supports skin moisture.

Increase humidity

Use a humidifier in heated rooms to keep the humidity at 40-60%. Houseplants can also contribute to improving the indoor climate.

Wear protective clothing

Protect exposed skin areas with scarves, hats, and gloves against wind and cold. Ensure skin-friendly materials like cotton or silk as the first layer.

Product recommendations by skin type

Normal to dry skin

  • Creamy cleansing lotion
  • Hyaluronic acid serum
  • Rich day cream with ceramides
  • Nourishing night cream with natural oils

Oily to combination skin

  • Gentle foaming cleanser
  • Lightweight oil-free serum
  • Moisturizer with niacinamide
  • Lighter night care without comedogenic oils

Sensitive skin

  • Extra mild, fragrance-free cleanser
  • Soothing serum with allantoin
  • Hypoallergenic day cream
  • Rich, but low-irritant night care

Conclusion: Switch to autumn care in time

The adjustment of the skincare routine to the autumn months is essential for healthy, supple skin. Start adjusting your routine at the first cooler days to careyour skin optimally for the upcoming cold.

A consistent routine with the right products, combined with protective measures against wind and cold, helps your skin to easily transition through the season. Remember, every skin is unique – experiment with different products and ingredients to find the optimal autumn skincare for you.

Invest in the right autumn care now, so that your skin remains radiant and healthy even in the colder season. Your skin will thank you – today and in the coming months.

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