With the arrival of fall comes many things: cooler weather, boots, cozy knits, pumpkin-flavored everything. We change our wardrobe in the fall, why not our skincare routine, too? Your skincare needs change when the weather cools down. Transitional weather can create blotchy skin and cracked lips if not prepped. Luckily, it is easy to make sure you have all your fall bases covered this season. Keep reading for how to update your skincare routine this fall.

Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate

Slough away dead summer skin with a gentle exfoliant. We tend to ease up on exfoliation during the summer since we’re exposed to so much sun and chlorine, but fall is the time to add it back in. It’s one of the most important steps for repairing and brightening your complexion this season.

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Skip the hot showers

We know a hot shower can feel amazing in cooler temps, but it’s actually super drying for your skin. Wash your face with lukewarm water and finish with a splash of cool water to leave your skin feeling extra refreshed.

Add retinol back in to your routine

It’s recommended to skip the retinol when your sun exposure is increased, so you’ve probably opted out this summer. Retinol is magic for evening out skintones and textures, including any new spots you might have earned this summer.

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Boost hydration with a toner

A lot of people skip this step, but a good alcohol-free toner can add some much-needed moisture back into your skin. Be sure to add your serum and moisturizer on top while your skin is still damp to lock in that extra moisture.

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Fill up on antioxidants

If you’re one of the many pumpkin lovers out there, you’re in luck because it’s full of anti-inflammatory properties your skin craves in the cooler months. Sweet potatoes, carrots, pomegranates and Brussels sprouts are also great options for boosting collagen and elasticity in your skin in the fall. We love adaptogens for a quick antioxidant boost that helps beautify from the inside out.

Keep the sunscreen

Just because you’re not laying by the pool every day doesn’t mean you get to skip the SPF. While UVB rays (the guys that cause sunburns) aren’t as intense in the fall, UVA rays (the ones that damage your skin and cause wrinkles) are just as strong. If you’re over 20, SPF every day is a must.

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Pull out the heavy-duty moisturizers

Whether it’s your daily moisturizer, a hydrating night cream or your favorite weekly mask treatment, it’s time to upgrade to the moisture powerhouses. When it’s cooler out, the air holds less moisture, which means skin dries out super easily. Give it that extra boost it needs with ultra-hydrating creams that won’t leave you feeling greasy.

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Are you ready for fall? Catch up here with these posts: The Best 2018 Fall Capsule Wardrobe, 7 Cute Fall Home Updates That Will Work In A Rental and Yes, You Can Totally Still Wear Sandals In The Fall