Dry skin is a very common condition that is characterized by a lack of sufficient water in the epidermis, which can cause flakes and dry patches. In extreme cases dry skin can result in cracks and breaks in the skin.
The epidermis is generally composed of lipid (fat) and protein. The lipid part of the epidermis is what prevents dehydration. If the skins fatty oils are removed, the skin loses its protection and loses moisture.
There is masses of information about dry skin but to keep this post short and sweet I’ve bullet pointed the most important things I think will help you change your skin.
There are multiple causes of dry skin:
- Humidity
- Cold Temperature
- Age
- Overuse of soaps and sanitizers
- Genetics
- Malnutrition
The most common places we find dry skin:
- Lower legs
- Hands
- Forearms
The symptoms:
- Rough/Dry patches
- Sensitive Skin
- Red Skin
- Flaky Skin
How to Treat:
If you have severe dry skin I would recommend seeing a doctor who can provide the best provisions for you. However if you need some helpful tips to reduce the symptoms of dry skin keep reading:
- Drink lots of water!
- Use a moisturizer that contains oil.
- Use toners, even acid toners, to remove dirt and old flaky skin (you may need to replace moisture lost from the skin manually, but that shouldn’t be hard if you follow the next step).
- Apply a hydrating oil every night before bed, like olive oil or Sunday Riley Luna. The oil you use can be cheap or expensive just find one that you like and stick with it. My personal fave is Blue Orchid oil from Clarins. Spend a good 15 minutes massaging before bed and if you don’t think you have time for this make time! It is a very important step.
- When you’re on a plane use a hydrating masque, like Drink Up Intensive from Origins, to help beat humidity while up in the air.
- Get a facial once in awhile. It may not seem necessary but the intensive treatment you undergo when you have a facial is not something you can replicate at home. It is worth the investment.
- Keep you skin clean – helps avoid breakouts. This one really applies to any skin type but should be mentioned. Make sure you take your makeup off effectively. Double cleansing should keep your skin in check, the first step removes make up and the second cleanse purifies the skin. I like to use the Take the day off Balm from Clinique in the first step and the Garnier micellar water in the second.
- Lastly I would like to mention how extremely important diet is to healthy skin, maybe more than people realise. Get all the nutrients your body needs and your skin will glow.
