As the leaves begin to change colours and the air turns crisp, you instinctively know it’s time to reach for your wooly jumper and start layering up. Skincare is no different. Your skincare routine should evolve alongside your wardrobe; protecting it from cooler temperatures and lower humidity, which often results in drier skin.
By introducing a natural skincare routine, you can refresh your skin giving it the nourishment it needs to stay healthy, hydrated, and glowing throughout the colder months. At Prof & Doc we believe seasonal changes call for thoughtful adjustments to skincare routines, rather than a complicated overhaul.
This seasonal skincare guide explains why skin feels tight in autumn, why watercress could be the solution and how to build an effective autumn skincare routine using our range of products.
Why your skin needs a seasonal reset
Cooler outdoor air generally contains less moisture, while central heating creates a dry indoor environment. Together these conditions can increase water loss and leave your skin feeling dry. An effective autumn skincare routine involves cleansing without leaving skin feeling stripped, restoring hydration and supporting the skin barrier that helps retain moisture (particularly when skin is exposed to wind, changing temperatures and heated rooms).
Our range includes gentle skincare for sensitive skin, targeted skincare for uneven texture and revitalising skincare for tired-looking skin.
Why watercress?
Most people know watercress as a British vegetable tossed into salads or squeezed between two slices of bread in an egg sandwich. Yet, watercress’ potential extends far beyond the garden and the kitchen.
Our researchers discovered watercress compounds intercept the enzymes responsible for creating ammonia on the skin, helping to neutralise a major culprit behind irritation and a weakened skin barrier. In fact, our decade of research into watercress showed a clear connection between watercress and its natural skincare potential, which was impossible to ignore.
Watercress contains natural plant compounds – glucosinolates and isothiocyanates – which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. This research led us to the creation of Prof & Doc science-led skincare range with Watercress Active® at the heart of all our products.
If your skin feels drier, tighter or more sensitive as the seasons change, our watercress-based skincare range can help replenish moisture and support the skin's natural defences. Of course, understanding the ingredients is only one part of a natural skincare routine. Daily habits are equally important.
How to change your skincare routine for autumn
Our autumn skincare routine includes three simple steps: cleanse, treat and moisturise. This seasonal skincare routine can be used morning and evening with just a few handy tips: avoid washing your face with very hot water; pat rather than rub skin dry; and moisturise soon after washing. Together with carefully chosen products, these small habits can help skin feel more comfortable through the cooler months.
1. Cleanse gently. Start with our Purifying Watercress Face Cleanser. Powered by 10% Watercress Active® it removes impurities and excess oil while leaving skin feeling fresh and balanced. Cleansing thoroughly helps the products that follow sit comfortably on the skin.
2. Add a targeted serum. Follow with our Reviving Watercress Face Serum, formulated with 93% Watercress Active®. It is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in seven days, making it an excellent choice for refreshing and firming up your skin. It also complements a routine focused on smoother-looking texture.
3. Seal in moisture. Finish with our Moisturising Watercress Face Cream for daily hydration. Applied after serum, it helps create a comfortable final layer as part of your seasonal skincare routine.
Just as autumn calls for softer knits, considered layers and a little more warmth, your complexion benefits from the same thoughtful approach. By embracing an autumn skincare routine, you can replenish lost moisture, support your skin’s natural barrier and preserve a healthy, luminous glow long after the summer sun has faded.
Explore the full Prof & Doc face and body range through our online shop, where you can also take our Skin Quiz for personalised recommendations and compare money-saving bundles. Prof & Doc products are also available online from Holland & Barrett.