From finding the most hydrating cleanser to the best moisturizers for dry skin, discover our dermatologist-recommended dry skin treatment products and pro care tips.
Some of the ways dry skin can show up is through redness, flakiness, dullness, tightness, fine lines, and sensitivities. It can be seasonal—especially in winter due to cold air, or when caused by harsh products. It can also be due to your skin type since having dry skin means that you’ll have fewer oil-producing glands than those with combination or oily skin. Lower levels of sebum indicates that the skin is without the lipids it needs to retain moisture and build a strong barrier to protect against environmental stressors, especially around the face and hands. Skin care for dry skin is all about moisturization and strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier. This isn't the same as dehydrated skin which is to do with lack of water, leading to similar symptoms like dullness and tightness. The best skincare routine for dry skin will be focused around repairing and boosting your skin’s moisture barrier with nourishing oils and humectant ingredients.
Rely on specially formulated dry skin products. Starting with a targeted face cleanser for dry skin, look to creamy formulas with replenishing ingredients. Add a hydrating and brightening face serum infused with hyaluronic acid which attracts and binds water molecules to the skin and repairs the moisture barrier. An eye serum can also provide delicate care for the skin around your eyes, keeping it smooth and hydrated. You also need facial exfoliants to help remove dead skin cells and let your other products penetrate. Chemical exfoliants like AHAs are better for dry skin than physical scrubs as those can cause irritation. A rich, nourishing moisturizer will be your daily essential.
When choosing a moisturizer for dry skin, target those with ingredients such as vitamin E, squalane and hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and soothe. These ingredients soothe itchy skin and reduce irritation naturally while replenishing moisture and forming a shield against environmental damage. Rich creams help keep your skin smooth and hydrated all day. For a complete skincare routine for dry skin, apply these creams after cleansing and serum application.
Every dry skin care routine should integrate sunscreen. Dry skin is particularly vulnerable to environmental harm, including UV rays. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily not only protects your skin but also helps maintain moisture while staving off aging signs and treating existing dryness. Make sunscreen the final step in your morning regimen for complete coverage. Opt for nutrient-dense, chemical-free formulations that won't cause dryness or irritation.