Routine for Winter & Summer
Your skin’s needs change with the seasons – and so should your routine. But switching products for summer and winter doesn’t have to break the bank. With a few smart swaps and multi-use staples, you can keep your skin glowing year-round on a budget.
Summer Skincare: Hot weather and high UV make your skin oilier and more sun-damaged. Switch to lightweight, oil-free products. For a fresh cleanse, use a gentle gel or foaming cleanser (drugstore picks like CeraVe Foaming Cleanser) that cuts through sweat and SPF without stripping. Opt for a light moisturizer or lotion; aloe vera gel (a cheap natural hydrator) can soothe sun-exposed skin. Don’t skimp on sunscreen – stick with an affordable gel or spray SPF (Neutrogena CoolDry or generic store brands under $10). Exfoliate
1–2 times a week with a budget-friendly scrub (like St. Ives apricot scrub) to clear sunblock buildup. Finally, pack a hydrating mist (even plain rosewater or aloe spray) for midday refreshment. 11 Winter Skincare: Cold, dry air sucks moisture from skin. Time to trade your summer products for richer, more emollient alternatives. Swap your gel cleanser for a creamy one or cleansing oil to prevent tightness.
Boost hydration with a thicker moisturizer – look for cheap nourishing ingredients like shea butter or ceramides (think Cetaphil or Eucerin) and layer a face oil or petroleum jelly on super-dry patches. Add a nourishing serum (e.g., affordable hyaluronic acid serum) under moisturizer for an extra moisture boost.
Cut back on harsh exfoliation; if your skin is flaky, use a mild AHA lotion or oat-based scrub 1–2 times weekly instead. Don’t forget hands and lips: keep a rich hand cream and lip balm handy to prevent winter cracking.
Budget Tips: Many products are seasonal stand-ins. For instance, a body lotion can double as face moisturizer in winter if it’s non-comedogenic, and aloe gel can replace pricey “after-sun” sprays. Layering works in your favor; apply a little of the drugstore night cream under your day lotion for more moisture.
Drink water and use a home humidifier (budget ones are $30 or less) to hydrate from within and maintain skin moisture.
Finally, remember consistent basic care (cleanse, hydrate, protect) is key no matter the season. By choosing affordable multi-taskers and swapping textures with the weather, you can handle both sun and snow without overspending.
Share your own seasonal skincare hacks below, and follow AffordableBeauty.org for more budget-friendly beauty guides!