How to Transition Your Skincare Routine from Winter to Spring

As the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. Winter calls for rich, protective products to combat dry air and harsh weather. But when spring arrives with warmer temperatures and higher humidity, your skin’s needs shift—requiring lighter hydration, extra exfoliation, and protection from rising UV levels.

Here’s your complete guide on how to transition your skincare routine from winter to spring to keep your skin balanced, radiant, and healthy.

Why You Need to Update Your Routine for Spring

Spring brings more sunshine, pollen, humidity, and environmental stressors. As your skin adjusts to this new climate, you might experience:

• Increased oiliness or breakouts
• Congested pores
• Dry patches lingering from winter
• Seasonal allergies affecting skin (redness, irritation)

By updating your routine now, you help your skin adapt and avoid common springtime issues.

1. Switch to a Lighter Moisturizer

In winter, thick creams help lock in moisture against dry air. In spring, these can feel heavy and clog pores.

What to do:

• Swap heavy creams for a lightweight gel or lotion moisturizer.
• Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or squalane.
• If you have oily or combination skin, consider oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas.

Pro Tip: You still need to moisturize—even oily skin needs hydration to stay balanced!

2. Double Down on Sunscreen

With longer, sunnier days, UV exposure increases—even if it’s still cool outside.

What to do:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning.
• Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.
• Look for lightweight, non-greasy SPF formulas (especially if you’re layering under makeup).

Bonus Tip: Choose a tinted mineral SPF for added coverage and antioxidant protection.

3. Reintroduce Gentle Exfoliation

Cold winter weather can lead to dull, flaky skin. Spring is a great time to start gently exfoliating again to refresh your complexion and unclog pores.

What to do:

• Use chemical exfoliants like AHA (glycolic, lactic acid) or BHA (salicylic acid) 2–3 times a week.
• Avoid over-exfoliating—especially if your skin is still dry or sensitive from winter.
• Add enzyme exfoliants (from papaya or pineapple) if you have sensitive skin.

4. Update Your Cleanser

Heavy cream or balm cleansers used in winter may leave a residue that’s too rich for spring.

What to do:

• Switch to a gentle foaming or gel cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and pollen buildup.
• If you wear sunscreen and makeup daily, consider double cleansing at night (oil cleanser + regular cleanser).

5. Lighten Up on Heavy Oils & Occlusives

Skin typically produces more oil in spring due to increased humidity and temperature.

What to do:

• Cut back on rich oils or balms like coconut oil or petroleum jelly.
• Replace them with lighter facial oils like rosehip or squalane, or skip them altogether if not needed.

6. Add Antioxidants to Your Routine

Spring = more time outdoors = more environmental exposure.

What to do:

• Add a Vitamin C serum in the morning to fight free radical damage and brighten skin.
• Consider serums with green tea, niacinamide, or ferulic acid for added antioxidant power.

7. Be Allergy-Aware

Seasonal allergies can cause skin sensitivity, puffiness, or flare-ups—especially around the eyes.

What to do:

• Use fragrance-free, calming products (look for aloe vera, centella asiatica, or colloidal oatmeal).
• Keep a cooling eye gel in the fridge to reduce puffiness.
• Wash your face thoroughly after being outside to remove pollen.

8. Declutter and Check Expiry Dates

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—it’s for your skincare shelf too.

What to do:

• Toss any expired products (especially SPF and actives).
• Clean your makeup brushes and skincare tools.
• Store products away from direct sunlight to preserve potency.

Spring Skincare Swap Cheat Sheet

Final Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to reset your routine and let your skin breathe. With just a few simple changes—like lightening your moisturizer, increasing SPF protection, and adding antioxidants—you’ll help your skin look fresher, brighter, and better protected for the new season.