By Nina Prisk – skin & aesthetics expert and founder of Update Aesthetics.
After months of sunshine, outdoor living, and often a more relaxed skincare routine, the signs of summer can start to show on our skin, and not always in the most flattering way. Increased pigmentation, dryness, and dullness are common post-summer concerns, and autumn is the perfect time to reset your skincare routine to help restore radiance, repair sun damage, and prepare your skin for the colder months ahead.
Addressing Sun Damage
Prolonged sun exposure is one of the leading causes of premature skin ageing. Even with good SPF habits, many people notice new pigmentation, uneven skin tone, and a rougher texture after summer. One of the most effective ways to tackle this is by incorporating ingredients like vitamin C, which helps brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of sunspots, and niacinamide, which supports skin barrier repair and reduces inflammation.
At-home exfoliation can also be really effective. When purchasing skincare, look for gentle chemical exfoliants, such as lactic acid or mandelic acid, to remove dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. Make sure to avoid anything too abrasive, particularly if your skin is feeling dry or sensitive.
Rebuilding Hydration
Summer often depletes the skin’s moisture levels due to sun exposure, travel, and heat. As the temperature drops, skin can start to feel tight or irritated if it’s not properly hydrated.
To counter this, you can introduce a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid or polyglutamic acid to help attract moisture back into the skin. Follow this with a ceramide-rich moisturiser to lock hydration in and reinforce the skin barrier. I always remind my clients that hydration is not just about drinking water, it’s about maintaining moisture levels within the skin with the right ingredients.
Treatments to Consider
In-clinic treatments can accelerate your skin’s recovery after summer. Light-based therapies like IPL (intense pulsed light) or broadband light therapy can effectively target pigmentation and broken capillaries caused by UV damage. For deeper rejuvenation, medical-grade chemical peels or microneedling with radiofrequency can help stimulate collagen production and improve overall tone and texture.
These treatments work particularly well in autumn, as UV levels are lower and there’s less risk of post-procedure sun exposure which makes it an ideal time for more intensive skin work.
Strengthen Your Skincare Routine
Autumn is the moment to return to consistency. This means cleansing gently but thoroughly, using antioxidant serums, and always applying broad-spectrum SPF, even when the skies are grey. Sun protection is a year-round commitment, and consistent use is key to preventing further UV damage.
If you’re unsure where to begin, I would recommend consulting a qualified skincare professional who can assess your skin and recommend a tailored plan. Everyone’s skin responds differently to summer, and personalised care makes a real difference.
About the expert
Nina Prisk is a leading cosmetic nurse and expert in non-surgical aesthetics. With 14 years of experience as a Registered Nurse and Independent Prescriber, Nina specialises in advanced aesthetic procedures, including injectable enhancements and facial rejuvenation. Recently named ‘Best Cosmetic Injector,’ Nina attracts patients from across the UK, drawn to her expertise and natural approach to beauty.
Known for her ability to create bespoke treatment plans that focus on the individual, Nina has gained a reputation for delivering results that help clients feel confident in their own skin. As an ambassador for Allergan and a frequent international lecturer, Nina shares her insights into the world of non-surgical aesthetics and continues to shape the industry with her fresh perspective.
With a strong commitment to maintaining high industry standards, Nina advocates for careful regulation, precision, and patient care. As a member of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN) and the Aesthetics Complication Expert Group (ACE), she holds mastery in complications management.
Nina is the founder of Update Aesthetics, a CQC-registered clinic specialising in non-invasive treatments, where her patients benefit from her extensive experience and dedication to achieving beautiful, natural results. With clinics in London and Cornwall, Nina’s artistry has earned her a cult following for her lip treatments and facial rejuvenation procedures.
