The Do’s and Don’ts of Dry Skin & The Best Products To Beat It

Of all the parts of your body, your face is usually the most exposed to the elements. So, it often suffers the most damage.

Extra wrinkles? Blame the dryness. Flaky skin? Dryness. Breakouts? Can also be dryness, thanks to dead skin cells clogging pores.

So how do we beat this inevitable problem? The answer lies in a multilayered approach to moisture. Read on to learn the surprising factors that may be causing you problems, plus the best moisturizers and facial cleansers for dry skin and exactly how to use them.

Don’t

Use Cleansers Containing Harsh Ingredients

Sodium lauryl sulfate is a popular ingredient in facial cleansers to avoid, especially for those with dry skin.

Overwash

Using a cleanser to wash your face more than once a day can strip skin of its natural moisture and ability to produce oil.

Use Hot Water

Hot water can be extremely drying to skin.

Rely on Drinking More Water

While drinking water is excellent for dozens of reasons, including various skin conditions, it won’t combat dry skin.

Drink Alcohol

Alcohol is a diuretic that causes dehydration, leading not only to a hangover but to extra dry skin.

Do

Use Non-Foaming Cleansers

The best facial cleansers for dry skin are typically oil or gel-based, and should be non-comedogenic so as not to clog your pores.

Wash Less

Using an oil-based eye makeup remover followed by a gentle micellar water once per day can help reduce the use of stronger cleansers. Or even easier, skip any products in the morning when your skin is naturally cleaner than at the end of the day.

Use Cooler Water

Lukewarm water is more gentle than hot, and cold can have the added benefit of tightening pores as well.

Layer On the Moisture

Oils may seem like the obvious choice when searching for deep hydration, but the truth is more complicated than that. A Hyaluronic Acid serum should be your first step to plump your cells. Next should be a light lotion, which absorbs efficiently for instant moisture before finishing with a protective oil to act as a hydrating barrier between you and the dry air out there. Give each product at least 30 seconds to absorb before applying the next one and you’ll be glowing in no time.

Apply Oil To Damp Skin

If a three-pronged moisturizing routine sounds like a lot to you — or for those times when you’re in a rush — applying oil directly to damp skin can help you skip a few steps by locking in moisture before it evaporates in the first place.

Ingest More Fish Oil

Studies have shown that fish oil, which is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, can improve skin’s ability to retain moisture.

Products to Try

Peach & Lily S-Energy Cleansing Gel

For those who don’t love the feel of an oil cleanser, this Korean beauty secret is a gel formula that will break down even waterproof makeup.

Clearstem CellRenew

This serum has a hyaluronic acid base plus collagen, anti inflammatories and adaptogens to help regulate natural oil production.

Public Goods Moisturizing Lotion

Lightweight enough to layer, this simple lotion is easily absorbed and toxin-free.

ZenMed Skin Protecting Lotion with SPF 30

Because SPF is crucial, even in the winter and this one is a more blendable version of the waterproof kind you want for the beach.

June Oils

This oil has the added benefit of CBD, which has been touted to increase skin elasticity through hydration and anti-inflammatory effects.

Public Goods Fish Oil

This fish oil supplement is a great way to get more omega 3 fatty acids into your diet quickly and regularly.

Kahina Giving Beauty Moisture Mask

When you need an immediate boost, this moisture mask is 100% natural and works overnight to increase water reserves and improve skin barrier function to get you on the right track.

Don’t Let Dry Skin Be a Drag

The more your skin is moisturized, the more you can feel good when you go out or relax at home. So, work at least one of these products into your routine, and you won’t have to worry about dry skin ever again.