8 science-backed ways to improve the look of your skin this fall

Want to improve the appearance of your skin? From protecting your skin from environmental aggressors with antioxidant-rich skincare, to keeping your skin hydrated all day long, to personalized skincare, here are eight science-based tips and tricks to help you achieve radiant skin. and improve the overall look. your skin, below.

APPLY SUN CREAM... EVEN WHEN IT'S CLOUD 

The summer sun may be long gone, but that doesn't mean you should forgo your daily sunscreen application. Sunscreen is the most important step in any skin care routine and can protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), "up to 80% of the sun's harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin," even on overcast fall days. So, if you plan on spending time outdoors, be sure to apply (and reapply) broad-spectrum sunscreen to your exposed skin.

HELP PROTECT YOUR SKIN WITH ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidant-rich skin care products aren't just for mature skin. Incorporating antioxidants into your daily skin care routine in your 20s and 30s can be just as important, as antioxidants can protect your skin from environmental aggressors like free radicals. Our consulting dermatologist, Dr. Lisa Jeanne, tells us that when free radicals form, they look for something to attach themselves to and often pick on our skin's collagen and elastin fibers, which they then destroy. Wearing antioxidant-rich products daily under a broad-spectrum sunscreen can give these free oxygen radicals an alternative!

KEEP YOUR SKIN MOISTURIZED

It's no secret that moisturizing your skin is an important step in skin care, especially during the fall and winter months when seasonal dry skin can make our skin dry. Moisturizing your skin from head to toe with a revitalizing lotion or moisturizer can help soothe dry, uncomfortable skin and give it a healthy-looking—read: radiance—radiance. AAD notes that comfort and radiance are not the only visible benefits of skin hydration. Moisturizing can also help reduce the appearance of some of the premature signs of aging (like fine lines and wrinkles)!

CUSTOMIZE THE PROGRAM ACCORDING TO YOUR SKIN TYPE

AAD explains, "Over time, careful and consistent skin care with products designed for specific skin types can gradually improve overall skin health and appearance." In other words: to improve the appearance of your skin, you will want to use products designed specifically for your skin type as soon as possible.

WASH YOUR FACE EVERY DAY… ESPECIALLY AFTER A Sweaty Workout

Do not neglect cleaning your face from daily dirt and soot, especially after a sweaty workout. According to the AAD, you should wash your face in the morning, evening, and after an intense sweaty workout. “Sweat, especially in a hat or helmet, can irritate the skin. Wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating." Still not sold? Dr. Ginn explains that if you don't wash off your skin at least 10 minutes after you sweat, you may be creating the perfect conditions for back and chest acne to develop.

GET A GOOD NIGHT SLEEP

If you want to improve the appearance of your face, getting enough sleep is essential. According to board certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant Dr. Dandy Engelman, “During sleep, skin cells work to repair and regenerate, in other words, by activating mitosis. Take that time away and you could be left with tired, dull skin." If you find it difficult to calm down at night, find a bedtime ritual that will help you get tired. We recommend taking a relaxing bath, practicing a few soothing yoga poses, or drinking a cup of herbal tea.

EXFOLIATION WEEKLY

Seasonal dry skin is one of the main aggressors for the skin this season. Not only can dry skin make your complexion look dull and lifeless, it can also make it difficult for your skincare moisturizers to work! One of the best ways to deal with dry dead skin cells is to include exfoliation in your daily skincare routine. Using an exfoliator can help clear buildup from the surface of the skin and reveal soft, smooth, supple skin, ready to absorb all the moisture it can get.

EAT A HEALTHY, WELL BALANCED DIET

According to the AAD, "A healthy diet and lifestyle can promote healthy looking skin, [so] make sure you eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats." In addition to proper nutrition, keep your body hydrated by drinking the recommended amount of water throughout the day.