Autumn’s Impact: How the Changing Season Affects Your Body and Beauty

As the leaves turn golden and temperatures drop, it’s not just nature that undergoes a transformation. The arrival of autumn brings about significant changes in our bodies, affecting everything from our hair and skin to our eating habits and mood.

The Autumn Effect on Hair and Skin

For many women, the changing season signals a noticeable shift in their appearance. Approximately 75% of women experience increased hair loss as the weather changes, while skin often becomes drier and loses its summer glow. Shalina Casey, a 48-year-old mother of two from New Alresford, shares her experience:

“As soon as autumn kicks in, I feel I have to hide myself away. It’s like a switch is flicked, and I go from being attractive and confident to a shell of my former self.”

Shalina notes that her skin becomes drier, paler, and blotchy with the onset of colder weather. She also observes changes in her hair texture and thickness, attributing these changes to potential vitamin D deficiency or hormonal fluctuations.

Nutritional Changes and Weight Gain

The autumn season often brings a shift in eating habits. On average, people consume an extra 222 calories per day compared to summer months. The desire for comfort food and carbohydrate-rich meals increases, potentially leading to weight gain and feelings of discomfort.

The Psychological Impact

Beyond physical changes, autumn can affect mental well-being. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) impacts approximately one in 15 people between September and April, according to NHS data. The reduced daylight hours and colder temperatures can lead to mood changes and decreased self-esteem.

Combating Autumn’s Effects

While these changes may seem daunting, there are steps you can take to maintain your health and beauty during autumn:

• Hair Care: Use deep conditioning treatments to combat dryness and brittleness.
• Skin Protection: Increase moisturization and continue using SPF to protect against environmental damage.
• Nail Care: Apply cuticle oil and file nails regularly to prevent breakage.
• Lip Care: Exfoliate lips gently and use nourishing balms to prevent chapping.
• Diet: Be mindful of comfort food consumption and incorporate warming, nutrient-rich foods.
• Sleep: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.

By understanding and addressing these seasonal changes, you can navigate autumn with confidence and maintain your well-being. Remember, these changes are temporary, and with proper care, you can embrace the beauty of the season both inside and out.