Ann Miller

In dry climates this is often irritation from fragrance, essential oils, or drying alcohols, so pare your routine to basics for two weeks, skip acids and retinoids, and patch test anything that stings. Once calm, reintroduce actives slowly and use a moisturizer with humectants and barrier builders such as ceramides and cholesterol.

Hey Janet and absolutely and there's a way to bring this up that shows you value your relationship while honoring your needs. Start by framing it positively, like expressing how much you enjoy your time together first, then gently introduce your need for solo time. For example, you could say something like, 'I love how much we've been hanging out lately, it's been great, but I've realized I recharge best with a couple of evenings to myself each week to just read or unwind alone.' This way, it comes across as about your personal energy levels, not about them. Make sure to reassure them that it's not a rejection, maybe by suggesting specific times you do want to spend together. Another tip is to involve them in the conversation, asking for their thoughts or if they feel the same sometimes. That turns it into a team discussion rather than a demand. If they're sensitive about it, follow up by planning a fun date night soon after, like cooking dinner together on a weekend, to show you're still invested. Remember, everyone has different ways of recharging, and explaining that briefly can help them understand it's normal. It might take a bit for them to adjust, but approaching it with kindness usually keeps feelings intact.