Many talk about oily skin and tips on controlling oily skin, but what about those who have dry skin? Some people are born with genetically dry skin, making them more prone to dryness than the average person. We talk about the main culprits, unrelated to genetics, of dry skin so you can adjust your skincare routine accordingly.
1. Overcleansing
Overcleansing is one of the main reasons for very dry skin. The skin has a natural barrier that consists of water, oil and natural moisturizing factors. Overwashing your skin strips good skin hydrators, making you prone to dry and flaky skin. Those with dry skin should use oil-based cleansers and should only wash their face 1 or 2 times a day.
2. Your cleanser is too harsh
Traditional bar soaps have alkaline pH that can disrupt the outer skin later. Use a cleanser that is pH-balances to match the slightly acidic pH of you skin. For more details, read about pH levels and a pH-friendly cleansers.
3. Too much exfoliation
Experts recommend keeping it to a maximum of twice a week and even less frequently for dry skin. If you do exfoliate, it's important to replenish the lost oils and moisture from your skin by using a heavy moisturizer (especially for those with dry skin).
4. Moisturizer is too light
Switch out your moisturizer for a thicker cream that contains higher amounts of oil. Look for products with ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol - these three ingredients copy the composition of your skin's lipid layer.
5. Missing the optimal time to apply moisturizer
You should apply moisturizer when your skin is still damp after washing your face or after a shower. Pat (do not rub) dry your skin with a towel and apply moisturizer shortly after (within five minutes) to lock in the moisture. If you wait until your skin is completely dry, you missed the window for optimal moisture lock-in.
6. Not drinking enough water
Proper hydration is necessary to keep fluid moving efficiently through your body ad your skin.
7. Applying drying ingredients or taking medication
Many acne medications, over the counter and prescription, can dry out the skin. These ingredients include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids. Medications used for conditions like high blood pressure can dry your skin as well.
8. Unrelated skin conditions
Psoriasis and eczema are skin conditions that may lead to dry skin. Diseases, such as diabetes and thyroid disease, are also causes of dry skin. It's essential to pinpoint the underlying causes of dry skin so that you can manage dry skin and health issues that may lead to dry skin.