Breaking Beauty Podcast How-to Transition Your Skincare Routine to Fall and Winter, According to a Dermatologist: “Short Contact” Therapy, Layering Hacks and Barrier-Boosting Secrets
Oct 15, 2025
Dr. Kim Blakely, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Elevate Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology, shares expert tips on transitioning your skincare for colder months. She explains how to recognize and fix a compromised skin barrier, emphasizing the importance of humectants and emollients. Dr. Blakely unveils her 'short contact therapy' for using retinol and benzoyl peroxide without irritation. She highlights must-have ingredients like ceramides and recommends a practical approach to layering products for ultimate hydration this fall and winter.
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Boost Hydration For Cooler Months
- Increase humectants and switch to a thicker moisturizer when humidity drops to protect your barrier.
- Pat water on skin then apply hyaluronic acid before moisturizer to draw moisture deeper and lock it in.
Tone Down Harsh Cleansers
- Replace harsh, active-heavy cleansers in fall/winter with gentler ones to avoid barrier disruption.
- Reduce cleansing actives if you notice inflammation or increased sensitivity.
Adjust Exfoliation, Not Eliminate It
- Dial back exfoliation in drier months but monitor skin for flakes or irritation to adjust.
- Choose gentle AHAs/BHAs or salicylic for acne-prone skin and azelaic acid for rosacea-prone redness.