If you’re like most people, there’s a good chance that your skin reacts to the changes that come with the seasons. Though it can be any and every season, for most of us it’s the transition between spring and summer and fall to winter. That’s because these are the times when the weather moves to its next extreme. For some this shift manifests in full on breakouts, while others experience their skin become thirstier and in need of heavier moisture. Some people find they need to tweak their approach just a little, while others remain perplexed about what their skin is asking of them and how to meet its needs.

One of the first things to do is make sure you know when your skin is most affected by the change in weather. All that this requires is some attention on your part so that you know how you need to adjust and what you are adjusting to. For example, when the seasons move into winter, does your skin get dry? If so, what kind of dry (e.g. flaky, rough/scaly, or just generally thirsty and tight)? These little details might seem minute, but they are actually important in order for you to know which products you can use to help your skin get what it needs. For example, if your skin feels thirsty and tight you will want to focus on hydrating ingredients, whereas if your skin is feeling scaly and rough you want to make sure you give it plenty of emollients.

If you are one of those who feel lost and even overwhelmed at the thought of meeting your skin’s new requirements as the weather cools down, dries out or heats up, have no fear. With a little bit of attention and a willingness to adjust, be flexible and perhaps experiment a little bit, you can make seasonal changes a smooth, flare up free experience for you and your skin.