How to treat a dry skin type, on the face is a question I’m often asked

Dry skin lacks oil and usually ends up looking dull and sometimes a bit grey due to a build up of skin cells.

Before we start, lets recap on the common signs of a dry skin type, you may have some or all of these:

• Tight feeling, especially after showering/ cleansing.
• Patches of dryness or flakes
• Small pores
• May look fragile/thin
• Doesn’t absorb products well
• Can be sensitive to products
• Can still get small breakouts and/or Milia

OK, here are my tips to help your dry skin:

Check your cleanser isn’t drying your skin out (how does your skin feel after cleansing?) skip foams and gels – these contain foaming agents which are very drying.

Remove make up and SPF with a oily or creamy cleanser, I recommend this one to my clients, then remove the residue with either your finger tips or a clean flannel with water.

Only use warm tepid water when you wash, not hot – hot water dries your skin.

Don’t cleanse too often.  In the evening it is always necessary to remove any make-up/SPF/Dirt,  but a splash of water may be all you need in the mornings.

Always gently cleanse after swimming/ exercise – the chlorine and salt from sweat isn’t good to be left on the skin.

Exfoliate gently with a chemical exfoliator (rather than a physical scrub or brush) this serum is fab, it’s multi-functional (exfoliates AND hydrates) and suits all skin types.

Using retinol’s or strong actives too frequently or too soon can and will exacerbate dryness…although these are amazing for a dry skin, it’s important that you start slowly and gradually build up the strength of the products you use.  The serum I mentioned above is a great starting point.  For specific advice on this for your skin, you can book in a online skin consultation with me here.

Give yourself the gift of time and pop a nourishing face mask on, I love this one to soothe and replenish the skin.  Great for sensitive skins too.  This can be used often, but once or twice a week would be great.

Use a serum AND a occlusive (cream) moisturiser on top to lock in the moisture every day.  Correct layering is important here otherwise you’re wasting your products and time.

Diet plays a part too

Try eating more foods rich in healthy fats, such as:

• Nuts
• Seeds
• Oily fish
• Avocado
• …possibly supplement with omega oils and flax seeds.

Ingredients to avoid when you have dry skin

• Fragrance
• Alcohols
• Sulphates
• Some essential oils can irritate.

I hope this post has been helpful and you’ve got some tips to try.

If you have any questions you can find me on social media or book in for a consultation here.