Climate
Where Science, Nature, and Thought Intertwine.
Climate and Skin: Understanding the Effects and Solutions
Explore how varying climatic conditions—cold, heat, dryness, and humidity—impact skin physiology, and learn the scientifically supported methods to maintain its health and resilience.
Seasonal Skin Tips for Every Environment
Your skin is the body’s largest organ - and its most exposed. Environmental conditions, from dry winter air to high summer humidity, directly influence how it functions and responds to care. Understanding how climate affects skin physiology allows you to select the most suitable textures, ingredients, and routines throughout the year, supporting balance, protection, and long-term resilience.
Cold & Dry Climates: Low Humidity, Low Hydration
When temperatures drop, so does humidity. Reduced ambient moisture increases the rate at which water evaporates from the skin, leading to dehydration and visible signs such as:
- Flakiness and tightness
- Dull or uneven tone
- Heightened sensitivity and redness
Scientific Insight*
Research shows that exposure to cold, low-humidity environments compromises the stratum corneum, the skin’s outer barrier, resulting in increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and reduced lipid cohesion.
What to Do
- Opt for occlusive and emollient formulations to reinforce the skin barrier and reduce water loss.
- Incorporate humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture.
- Limit the use of strong exfoliants during colder months to avoid barrier disruption.
- Apply skincare immediately after bathing to seal in hydration.
Recommended Routine
Layer a hydrating serum beneath a richer facial oil to restore comfort and maintain optimal moisture retention.
*Further reading:
- Engebretsen, K. A. A. (2015). The effect of environmental humidity and temperature on skin barrier function and dermatitis. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 30(2).
- Kim, E., Han, J., Park, H., Kim, M., Kim, B., Yeon, J., Wei, L., Wei, L., & Lee, H. (2017). The effects of regional climate and aging on seasonal variations in Chinese women’s skin characteristics. Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications, 7(2).
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Read nowHot & Humid Climates: Oil Overdrive
High humidity does not hydrate the skin—it increases surface moisture retention, trapping sweat, sebum, and environmental particles. In hot environments, sebaceous gland activity intensifies, often leading to:
- Clogged pores
- Breakouts or inflammation
- Shiny or uneven texture
Scientific Insight*
Elevated temperature stimulates sebum secretion by activating sebaceous glands. Simultaneously, high humidity reduces the rate of sweat evaporation, altering the skin’s microenvironment and favoring bacterial proliferation. These combined factors contribute to occlusion, comedone formation, and the worsening of acne-prone conditions.
What to Do
- Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic formulations that balance hydration without occlusion.
- Incorporate water-based serums or gel-textured moisturizers to regulate moisture without excess residue.
- Double cleanse in the evening, especially when wearing sunscreen or makeup, to remove accumulated sweat and pollutants.
- Avoid occlusive or heavy formulations during daytime use to allow adequate skin respiration.
Recommended Routine
Try Sapphō’s Brightening Serum paired with Ex Prūnīs Antioxidant Treatment Oil—both lightweight and breathable. This combination supports hydration and antioxidant protection without clogging pores, ideal for hot and humid conditions.
*Further reading:
- Kim, S., Park, J. W., Yeon, Y., Han, J. Y., & Kim, E. (2019). Influence of exposure to summer environments on skin properties. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 33(11), 2192–2196.
- Herrero-Fernández, M., Montero-Vílchez, T., Díaz-Calvillo, P., Romera-Vílchez, M., Buendía-Eisman, A., & Arias-Santiago, S. (2022). Impact of water exposure and temperature changes on skin barrier function. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(2), 298.
Wind, Sun & Pollution: Barrier Damage
Urban air, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and strong winds are among the most persistent external stressors affecting the skin. These environmental factors can lead to:
- Inflammation
- Dehydration
- Premature aging through oxidative stress
Scientific Insight*
Pollution and UV exposure generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage structural proteins such as collagen and elastin. This oxidative stress accelerates the breakdown of the skin’s extracellular matrix, impairing elasticity and barrier integrity. Prolonged exposure is linked to increased pigmentation, dullness, and fine lines.
What to Do
- Apply antioxidants such as vitamins E and C, or polyphenols, to help neutralize free radicals.
- Strengthen your barrier with lipids to prevent trans-epidermal water loss.
- Use broad-spectrum SPF daily, even under cloud cover or indirect light exposure.
- Cleanse gently to remove micro-particles and pollutants without stripping the skin.
Recommended Routine
Use a serum that supports barrier recovery combined with an antioxidant-rich oil. Try Phaedrae Probiotic Renewal Serum alongside Eratō’s Multipurpose Essence for a defense system that restores, protects, and renews.
Transitional Seasons: Skin Adaptation Challenges
Spring and autumn bring abrupt shifts in temperature and humidity, creating inconsistent conditions that challenge the skin’s ability to maintain equilibrium. These fluctuations can lead to:
- Sensitivity or irritation flare-ups
- Breakouts caused by over-layering or improper product combinations
- Patchy dehydration due to unstable moisture balance
Scientific Insight*
Rapid environmental changes alter the skin’s barrier homeostasis, affecting both lipid organization and water retention capacity. Research shows that transitional climates can temporarily increase trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and inflammation, leading to discomfort or barrier instability.
What to Do
- Simplify your routine to focus on hydration and protection.
- Monitor your skin’s response and adjust product weights as conditions fluctuate.
- Choose multi-functional formulations that can be layered or used alone for flexible hydration.
Recommended Routine
This is an ideal period to experiment with blends. Try combining a lighter texture, such as Transcendent the Lotion, with a few drops of The Golden Age Rejuvenating Oil for adaptable moisture and balanced protection.
*Further reading:
- Wei, K. S., Stella, C., Wehmeyer, K. R., Christman, J., Altemeier, A., Spruell, R., Wimalasena, R. L., Fadayel, G. M., Reilman, R. A., Motlagh, S., Stoffolano, P. J., Benzing, K., & Wickett, R. R. (2016). Effects of season on stratum corneum barrier function and skin biomarkers. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 67(3), 185–203.
- Black, D., Del Pozo, A., Lagarde, J. M., & Gall, Y. (2000). Seasonal variability in the biophysical properties of the stratum corneum from different anatomical sites. Skin Research and Technology, 6(2), 70–76.
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