Seasonal Skincare: Adapting Your Routine Throughout the Year

Seasonal Skincare: Adapting Your Routine Throughout the Year

As the seasons shift, so too do the needs of your skin. Temperature changes, humidity levels, and environmental factors all influence your skin’s health, and adapting your skincare routine is crucial to maintaining balance. At The Humble Shepherd Co., our artisan soaps are thoughtfully crafted to support your skin all year round, but understanding seasonal skin changes can help you elevate your regime even further.

How Seasons Impact Your Skin

Your skin is incredibly dynamic, responding to external factors like weather, indoor heating, and UV exposure. During winter, harsh winds and lower humidity can strip moisture from the skin, leaving it dry, tight, and prone to irritation. Conversely, summer’s warmth and humidity may lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and heightened sensitivity due to UV exposure.

Scientific research suggests that skin barrier function and hydration levels are directly affected by seasonal changes. A 2022 PMC study on seasonal temperature effects on skin pH and barrier hydration highlights how environmental factors alter skin’s natural pH and ability to retain moisture. This is why adjusting your skincare routine is essential to keep your skin healthy and resilient.

Winter Skincare: Hydration is Key

Winter months demand extra care to combat dryness and irritation. Central heating and cold air can sap moisture from your skin, leaving it vulnerable to flaking and redness. Here's how you can adapt your routine:

1. Choose Hydrating Cleansers

Gentle cleansers are a winter essential. Opt for soaps formulated with moisturising ingredients like shea butter, oatmeal, or goat's milk. our handmade soap collection includes options that deeply nourish without stripping natural oils. Avoid overly harsh soaps that can aggravate dryness.

2. Lock in Moisture

Apply a rich moisturiser immediately after cleansing while your skin is still damp. This helps seal in hydration. Look for products containing ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin to replenish the skin barrier. NHS-inspired tips for winter dry skin hydration with ceramides and glycerin offers additional tips for combating winter dryness.

3. Exfoliate, But Gently

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, allowing moisturisers and serums to penetrate better. However, over-exfoliating in winter can cause sensitivity. Aim for one to two times per week using a gentle scrub or exfoliating soap. For example, Lush’s Ocean Salt sea salt and avocado scrub for gentle winter exfoliation is a great option for those seeking natural exfoliation.

4. Protect Your Skin Outdoors

Don’t forget SPF! Even in winter, UV rays can penetrate clouds and affect your skin. Dermatologists, including the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD’s) 2025 winter sun protection FAQs on SPF 30+ despite clouds recommend wearing sunscreen daily to protect against premature ageing and skin damage.

Spring Renewal: Preparing for Warmer Days

As temperatures rise and nature begins to bloom, your skin might experience a surge in oil production. Pollen and allergens can also trigger sensitivity, making springtime a great opportunity to refresh your routine.

1. Transition to Lightweight Products

Swap heavy winter moisturisers for lighter formulations that won’t clog pores. Look for water-based or gel moisturisers to keep your skin hydrated without feeling greasy.

2. Tackle Allergies

Pollen can irritate sensitive skin, causing redness and inflammation. Wash your face regularly with a soothing cleanser and consider products formulated to calm irritation. Ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera are particularly effective during spring.

3. Continue Sun Protection

As days grow longer, your skin is exposed to more sunlight. Reinforce your SPF habits and consider broad-spectrum coverage that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Summer Skincare: Staying Cool and Protected

Summer brings its own challenges, from increased sweat to sun damage. Your skincare routine should prioritise oil control, protection, and hydration.

1. Opt for Clarifying Soaps

Summer heat can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Reach for soap with natural antibacterial properties, like tea tree oil or activated charcoal, to deeply cleanse and purify your skin. Check out our charcoal soap range for effective summer cleansing.

2. Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Hydration isn’t just about drinking water; it’s also about external care. Lightweight moisturisers and facial mists can help keep your skin cool and refreshed. Avoid heavy products that may feel greasy in warmer weather.

3. Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

The sun can be unforgiving in summer, so never skip sunscreen. Choose a non-comedogenic product with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin. For more guidance on sunscreens, visit Dove’s 2025 summer SPF 30+ guide for broad-spectrum hydration and protection.

4. Post-Sun Repair

If you’ve spent time in the sun, soothing and repairing your skin is vital. Aloe vera gel or cucumber extract can calm redness and restore hydration. For eco-friendly and skin-safe post-sun care options, consider products recommended by the Environmental Working Group in their 2025 safest sunscreens and post-sun aloe-based repair recommendatio

Autumn Skincare: Preparing for Cooler Weather

Autumn is a transitional season, offering a chance to repair summer damage while preparing for colder months ahead. It’s a great time to focus on rebuilding your skin’s barrier and restoring balance.

1. Repair Sun Damage

Summer may leave your skin with pigmentation or sunburn. Incorporate products with Vitamin C or niacinamide to brighten your complexion and reduce spots. A 2025 PMC review on topical vitamin C for photoaging and pigmentation repair discusses the benefits of topical Vitamin C for sun-damaged skin.

2. Introduce Richer Moisturisers

Gradually reintroduce heavier creams to help your skin adapt to cooler air. Look for natural oils like argan or jojoba, which mimic your skin’s natural sebum and provide deep nourishment.

3. Gentle Cleansing and Exfoliation

Autumn is an ideal season for gentle exfoliation to slough off any lingering summer buildup. Pair your exfoliator with a moisturising soap to ensure your skin remains hydrated. For inspiration, explore Dr. Bronner’s organic castile soap for transitional autumn hydration and gentle cleanse.

Why Artisan Soap Matters

At The Humble Shepherd Co., we believe skincare is more than just routine, it’s self-care. Our handmade soaps are crafted with natural oils, nourishing butters, and zero harsh ingredients, making them perfect for all seasons. By choosing artisan products, you’re not only caring for your skin but also supporting sustainable and ethical production practices.

Small Changes, Big Results

Adapting your skincare routine to seasonal changes doesn’t require an overhaul. By investing in high-quality products and understanding the unique needs of your skin throughout the year, you can keep your complexion radiant and healthy. For those ready to embrace seasonal skincare, our handmade soap collection is here to help you every step of the way.