Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, autumn invites us to slow down and embrace a more nurturing rhythm. It’s a season of transition—not only for nature but also for our bodies and minds. The drop in temperature, reduced daylight, and shift in routine can impact our skin, mood, and overall wellbeing. That’s why autumn is the perfect time to re-center and practice intentional self-care. Here are five ways to look after yourself this season, with a special focus on skincare and holistic wellness.
Hydrate Inside and Out
Cooler air and indoor heating can quickly dehydrate the skin, leaving it dry and dull. Switching to a richer, cream-based moisturiser helps restore your skin’s barrier and lock in hydration. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or squalane. Don’t forget your lips and hands—both are prone to dryness during this time of year.
We recommend:
Elemis Pro-Radiance Hand and Nail Cream
SkinCeuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair
Equally important: stay hydrated from within. It’s easy to drink less water when it’s not hot outside, but your body still needs it. Herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, or rooibos can be a warming, hydrating alternative.
Embrace Seasonal Foods for Wellness
Autumn offers an abundance of nutrient-dense foods that naturally support your immune system and skin health. Think pumpkins, sweet potatoes, beets, and dark leafy greens—all rich in vitamins A and C, which promote collagen production and skin repair. Incorporating warming spices like cinnamon and turmeric can also boost circulation and reduce inflammation.
Try cozy recipes such as roasted root vegetables, hearty soups, or golden milk lattes. Nourishing your body with seasonal produce not only feels grounding but also enhances your skin’s glow from the inside out.
Adjust Your Skincare Routine
Just as you swap out your summer wardrobe, your skincare routine also benefits from seasonal changes. In autumn, consider:
- Gentle Cleansing: Replace foaming cleansers with cream or oil-based formulas to prevent stripping natural oils.
- Exfoliation in Moderation: Cooler weather can cause flakiness, but over-exfoliating will make dryness worse. Stick to once or twice a week using a mild exfoliant.
- SPF Still Matters: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause damage. Continue applying sunscreen daily to protect your skin year-round.
We recommend:
CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
Elemis Pro-Collagen Glow Boost Exfoliator
Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Prioritise Rest and Rituals
The shorter days and longer nights make autumn an ideal season to slow down and create nourishing evening rituals. Think of it as “beauty sleep” for your mind and body. Create a calming bedtime routine—dim the lights, sip a soothing tea, apply a hydrating overnight mask, or practice gentle stretches.
Consider journaling or gratitude practice before bed to unwind mentally. Prioritising rest doesn’t just recharge your energy—it also supports skin regeneration and strengthens your immune system.
We recommend:
Dermalogica Sound Sleep Cocoon
Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Candle
Get Outdoors and Move Your Body
While it’s tempting to hibernate indoors, fresh air and movement are powerful mood boosters. Autumn is perfect for brisk walks among falling leaves, hiking in cooler weather, or practicing yoga by an open window. Exposure to natural daylight helps regulate circadian rhythms and supports mental health, especially as the days grow shorter.
Moving your body also increases circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients that keep your skin healthy and radiant. Aim for gentle, enjoyable activities rather than intense routines—autumn is about balance and nourishment, not burnout.
Autumn reminds us that slowing down is natural and necessary. By tending to your skin, nourishing your body, and creating mindful routines, you can embrace the season’s beauty while feeling radiant and grounded. Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about listening to your body’s needs and honoring them with kindness.