Colder fall temperature can be tough on the skin. Fortunately there are ways to combat the damaging effects of the cool weather.

Fight flakes

Putting on liquid foundation can give you a healthy, dewy glow. However, applying it on dry, flaky skin may yield sub par results. To solve this problem, Nicholas Perricone, MD, FACN, recommends using a toner which contains alpha lipoic acid and DMAE – "two excellent antioxidants that act as natural anti-inflammatories." They will remove the flaky skin while refining and toning skin texture."

But for long term protection against peeling, Perricone says you’ve got to fix the real problem. "It’s important to make sure you have adequate intake of healthy fats found in fish, fish oil, extra virgin olive oil, etc." He adds that while creams and topicals with anti-inflammatories can help, you have to always have to consider the dietary component.

Moisturize and exfoliate correctly

To prepare for the season’s dehydrating effect on the skin, skin care expert June Jacobs recommends switching from a lightweight summer moisturizer to a more "emollient version." She also reminds us about choosing a moisturizer with SPF because UV rays can still get to your skin despite the drop in temperature.

Of course you can’t forget about exfoliation if you want to have soft and clear complexion. However, Perricone advises against using granular scrubs. "Exfoliation should be accomplished using alpha hydroxy acids-mechanical exfoliation can cause further thickening of the outermost layer of the skin, resulting in a rebound effect," he says, adding that "exfoliators with alpha hydroxy acids can be used during all four seasons."

For an even brighter complexion, Jacobs recommends using alpha hydroxy acid serum that contains mulberry and bearberry extracts, natural whitening agents that help rectify sun-induced hyper-pigmentation.

Healthy lifestyle

Don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting some exercise. If it’s too cold out, or if you’re feeling too sluggish to go to the gym, pop-in your exercise DVD and do some exercise moves at home. "Regular exercise will increase circulation to the face, promoting a glowing complexion," says Perricone. Exercise can also relieve stress and tension – both of which can make skin dull.

Sleep is another important factor that you have to consider. "Nothing is worse for your complexion than sleep deprivation," says Perricone, adding, "Not getting enough sleep can make you crave sugary, starchy food which can lead to breakouts."

Another bad habit to avoid if you want to achieve clear skin is smoking. "Smoking restricts the blood flow to the skin and causes dullness as well as premature wrinkles, deep lines, and loss of suppleness," says Perricone.

Wear luminizers

To make illuminate your already-glowing skin even more, celebrity makeup artist Darac suggests wearing a luminizer. He recommends using one with holographic properties such as "nanospheric optics." Darac also recommends wearing skin-perfecting makeup with hyaluronic acid, which "provides hydration and protects skin from the dryness of fall and winter."

Source: Elle