Skincare 101 with Dr. Adrienne Denese, MD PhD
"Knowledge is the first step to your most beautiful skin. Every Wednesday, I’m opening my lab notes to share a new "class" on the clinical science behind skincare. Consider this your personal library of skin education - designed to help you look past the marketing and understand the real biology of aging." ~ Dr. Denese
As the weather shifts from cold, dry winter to warmer, more humid spring days, your skin’s needs change too. Seasonal transitions affect hydration levels, oil production, and barrier function, so adjusting your routine now can help maintain a healthy, balanced complexion.
Why Skin Behaves Differently in Spring
During winter, low humidity and indoor heating can increase transepidermal water loss (TEWL), leading to dryness and barrier disruption. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, dry air and cold weather commonly cause skin to lose moisture and become irritated.
As spring arrives:
- Humidity rises
- Sebum production often increases
- Dead winter buildup may remain on the skin
- UV exposure begins to climb
These changes mean your rich winter routine may suddenly feel too heavy.
Step 1: Lighten Up Your Moisturizer
Winter often calls for thick occlusive creams. In spring, many skin types benefit from switching to lighter textures.
What to look for:
- Gel-cream or lotion textures
- Humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid
- Barrier-support lipids (ceramides, essential fatty acids)
Humectants draw water into the skin and help maintain hydration without heaviness.
Pro tip: Dry skin may still need creams at night while using lighter layers during the day.
Step 2: Reintroduce Gentle Exfoliation
Winter can leave behind dull, flaky buildup. Controlled exfoliation helps improve smoothness and radiance.
The American Academy of Dermatology notes that exfoliation removes dead skin cells that can make skin look dull and can help topical products absorb more effectively.
Source: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/exfoliate
Spring-friendly options:
- Mild chemical exfoliants (lactic acid, PHA)
- Enzyme exfoliants
- Soft peel pads used 1–3× weekly
Avoid over-exfoliating — barrier damage can increase sensitivity just as sun exposure rises.
Step 3: Increase Antioxidant Protection
UV levels begin climbing in spring, even on cloudy days. The Skin Cancer Foundation emphasizes that daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential year-round because UV exposure contributes to premature aging and skin cancer risk.
Smart spring additions:
- Vitamin C serum in the morning
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily
- Antioxidant-rich moisturizers
Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals generated by UV and environmental exposure.
Step 4: Manage Seasonal Oil Changes
Many people notice increased shine as temperatures rise. This is normal — sebaceous activity can increase with warmth and humidity.
Balance tips:
- Use gentle foaming or gel cleansers
- Avoid over-stripping (which can trigger rebound oil)
- Consider lightweight hydrating serums instead of heavy creams
Maintaining hydration actually helps regulate oil production.
Step 5: Don’t Forget Body Care
Skin below the neck also transitions in spring.
Quick body refresh:
- Gentle body exfoliation 1–2× weekly
- Lightweight body emulsions
- Targeted treatment for dry areas (elbows, knees, heels)
Consistent body care helps maintain smoothness as more skin becomes exposed in warmer weather.
Spring Skincare Takeaway
Think of spring as a skin reset season:
✔ Lighten textures
✔ Smooth winter buildup
✔ Boost antioxidant protection
✔ Stay consistent with SPF
✔ Support the skin barrier
Small seasonal adjustments can make a visible difference in how healthy, balanced, and radiant skin looks heading into the warmer months.
As always, thank you my friends!
Dr. Denese