Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
National Healthy Skin Month, observed every November, reminds us that skin is a living organ that reflects overall well-being. As temperatures drop and humidity falls, water loss from the skin increases, indoor heating raises irritation, and flare-ups of conditions such as eczema or psoriasis become more common. Treat this month as your annual check-in to reset routines, refresh products, and recommit to habits that protect your skin year-round.
- Hydrate Inside and Out Cold, dry air outside and heated air inside pull water from your skin. Drink water throughout the day and lock in hydration by applying a rich moisturizer immediately after bathing. Look for barrier-building ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and petrolatum.
- Tip: Use creams for the body and lighter gel creams for the face.
- Hands & feet: If they crack, apply ointment (like Vaseline or Aquaphor) at night under cotton gloves or socks.
- Protect Skin with Daily Sunscreen Even in fall and winter, UVA rays penetrate clouds and glass and contribute to skin cancer and premature aging. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning.
- Use one teaspoon for the face/neck and 2–3 tablespoons for exposed body areas.
- If outdoors in snow or at high altitudes, reapply every two hours.
- Pair SPF with sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and a scarf for added defense.
- Choose Gentle Routines to Calm Dryness Focus on barrier repair:
- Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers.
- Keep showers short with lukewarm water.
- Exfoliate with gentle leave-on products like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or polyhydroxy acids.
- For acne-prone skin, try low-strength retinoids (adapalene gel) if tolerated.
- Skip gritty scrubs and stiff brushes—they worsen irritation.
- Shave with a moisturizing shave cream and replace blades often.
- Manage Stress and Prioritize Sleep Stress increases cortisol, which disrupts the skin barrier and can worsen acne, eczema, and hives.
- Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep nightly.
- Build a calming nighttime ritual: cleanse, moisturize, limit screens, and dim lights.
- Try relaxation practices like breathing exercises or short walks
- Use Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medications Wisely Keep essentials on hand:
- OTC: 1% hydrocortisone cream for mild eczema or irritation; petrolatum-based ointments for lips, hands, and cracked heels.
- Prescription (refill early in fall):
- Eczema: triamcinolone ointment, tacrolimus cream
- Psoriasis: calcipotriol (Dovonex), clobetasol ointment
- Acne: tretinoin cream, clindamycin gel, benzoyl peroxide wash
- Rosacea: metronidazole cream/gel (MetroCream, MetroGel), azelaic acid gel (Finacea), ivermectin cream (Soolantra)
- Savings tip: Even if prescriptions are covered by insurance, use the RxLess® Assurance Plan to compare real-time pharmacy prices and find affordable options.
- Perform Monthly Skin Checks Use good lighting and a mirror to check from head to toe. Look for spots that are:
- Asymmetrical
- Border irregular
- Color varied
- Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
- Evolving (changing in size, shape, or symptoms) Early dermatologist visits improve outcomes.
- Reset Your Routine During Healthy Skin Month November is an ideal time to audit your skincare and prescriptions:
- Replace expired sunscreen or moisturizers.
- Restock chronic condition meds before winter.
- Check for irritants in fabrics or products that worsen dryness.
- Schedule an annual dermatology exam.
Conclusion
Healthy skin during fall and winter takes both daily care and smart planning. With hydration, sun protection, gentle routines, stress management, medication readiness, and regular skin checks, you can stay radiant and resilient all season. Use the RxLess® Assurance Plan to save on your skincare prescriptions and OTC essentials—because healthy skin should never come at an unhealthy price.
