How To Treat
Dry Skin
What Is Dry Skin?
In simple terms, dry skin is skin that’s lacking moisture. As such, it’s usually susceptible to sensitivity as well as flaking, redness, cracking and more visible lines and wrinkles. Though two upsides of this skin type are small pores and a matte complexion, it’s common to also experience a decrease in dermal elasticity due to this absence of adequate hydration. This can result in skin losing the ability to hold both its shape and pliancy, meaning that it’s more prone to sagging and dullness.
What Causes Dry Skin?
Like all skin types, dry skin can be a trait that’s inherited. However, it can also be a symptom of other causes like dehydration, hot temperatures (either a result of a warm climate or indoor heating), using skincare products that are too harsh or drying, or even your skin’s natural pH levels. It’s been reported that those with a more alkaline-inclined skin pH are more likely to be predisposed to age-related imperfections like wrinkles and fine lines.
Treating This Skin Type
The trick with treating dry skin is to do so with nourishing products. Choose those with hydrating ingredients like non-comedogenic oils, emollients and humectants and avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances. Try some of the following:
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is nothing short of a holy grail for skin of all types. It is said to improve a complexion that is dry and flaky, enhancing both texture and hydration. Not only this, but it also absorbs really well, which means no unwanted residue.
Ceramides
Already naturally part of your skin’s protective mechanism, products infused with ceramides can help to restore dermal moisture, soothe irritation and lend a hand in repairing your skin barrier.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich in nourishing properties such as vitamins E and K and multiple antioxidants. It is a humectant, meaning that it acts like a magnet to moisture, helping to naturally hydrate the skin. It is quite a heavy oil, however, so use sparingly.
Products To Use:
Cream Cleanser
Cream cleansers are ideal for a dry complexion since they’re designed to be moisturizing and kind on the skin. They typically contain hydrating ingredients that are meant to be massaged into the face to moisturize and soothe it. This type of cleanser is also beneficial for people who suffer from rosacea since they are designed to calm inflammation. Avoid ones that contain mineral oils and silicone, however.
Toner
A moisturizing toner that’s free from alcohol will help to tone your skin without drying it out. Humectants like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and glycerin are all good ingredients to look for in a toner due to their ability to calm and hydrate aggravated skin.
An Exfoliating Product
Be cautious with this one. Gentle exfoliation for dry skin is always an advantageous step for removing dead skin cells, but overdoing it can cause the skin to become irritated and inflamed, so don’t do it more than once per week to give you face time to recover. After exfoliating, always remember to follow up with an SPF and a good moisturizer to help protect the skin as well as restoring and locking in hydration.
Oil-Based Moisturizer
Oils that are derived from plants have been recommended over mineral oils for those with drier skin. While richer, oil-centric moisturizers can sometimes prove to be too heavy for oilier skin types (depending on which oils are used), dry skin welcomes this hydration boost with open arms. Try one with a rich formula to really tackle dryness head-on.
Face Oil
A facial oil can be extremely beneficial if you find the right one. With moisturizing and nourishing properties like essential fatty acids, a good face oil can do many things for your stratum corneum (your skin’s outer layer). It can help to hydrate and lock in moisture by creating a barrier on the skin’s surface. You can use it in conjunction with your favourite moisturizer to give your skin a little extra TLC, or simply on its own. They’re incredibly versatile.
Tips For Dry Skin
Drink Water
Especially if your skin’s dry, whether from genetics or external causes, the most important thing to do above all else is to drink water. Though it won’t necessarily solve dry skin on its own, it will still heavily contribute to hydrating both your face and body, being an indispensable step in dermal maintenance.
Eat The Right Fats
Omega-3 fatty acids are great for addressing dryness, and there’s even scientific proof citing that taking borage oil or flaxseed supplements on a regular basis can actually help the skin to retain moisture, decreasing the visibility and texture of any dry and rough patches. Aside from supplements, you can obtain omega-3 fatty acids from plant-based foods like soybeans, walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds.
Invest In A Humidifier
Humidifiers are designed to elevate the air’s moisture levels, and thus help your surrounding environment to be less drying to your skin. Especially since many of us remain inside for most of the day, we tend to fall victim to the dryness of indoor heating. This is why redressing the balance by procuring a humidifier can be such a positive investment.
Use Natural Oils
To elaborate on we said above, some of the best oils for dry skin are comfrey, marshmallow root, avocado, coconut (in small amounts), olive, rose, argan and marigold. Essential oils like jasmine, sandalwood, rose, lavender, frankincense, myrrh and neroli are all very beneficial as well, but be cautious of tea tree, cinnamon and lemongrass since these can be a little too drying.
Additional Information
We update our blog regularly, so always make sure to check in to read our latest content. For posts directly related to dry skin, visit the following:
- How To Moisturize Dry Skin
- What Are Ceramides?
- Our DIY Skincare section for more information on carrier, facial and essential oils, including which skin types they’re best suited to.