Cold weather: How it can benefit your skin

It can be hard to find the positives of the colder, darker months - but one perk you might not have considered how this season can benefit your skin.

According to Dr Barbara Kubicka, a fully accredited specialist in aesthetic medicine and founder of Clinicbe in Knightsbridge, autumn can be a beneficial time for our skin for the following reasons:

Reduced sun exposure

Firstly, the colder months give your skin a break from harmful UV rays.

"With shorter days and less intense sunlight compared to summer, the risk of UV damage decreases," Dr Kubicka states. "This reduced exposure helps prevent sunburn, hyperpigmentation and premature ageing, giving your skin a chance to recover and renew."

She adds that autumn is the perfect time to treat sun damage and hyperpigmentation by using exfoliating and skin-brightening products.

Hydration

You may find that your skin often feels dry during the colder months, which means this is a great time to focus on hydration.

"This season is perfect for introducing richer, hydrating products like creams and oils that lock in moisture, protecting your skin barrier and preventing dehydration," Dr Kubicka recommends.

Cooler temperatures

Colder temperatures can help reduce skin problems such as redness.

"The cooler, crisp air of autumn can help reduce inflammation and redness, especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin," the expert explains. "This milder weather is less likely to exacerbate skin conditions like rosacea or eczema, providing a more stable environment for your skin."

Nutrient-rich diet

Eating seasonal vegetables throughout the autumn can help keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.

"Autumn brings a variety of seasonal foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as pumpkins, apples, and squash," Dr Kubicka says. "These foods can boost your skin's health from the inside out, offering essential nutrients like vitamin C, beta-carotene, and zinc, which promote collagen production, repair skin damage, and enhance your natural glow."

She concludes, "By adjusting your skincare routine to align with the benefits that autumn offers, you can maintain healthy, radiant skin throughout the season."