The two kinds of skin types and how to identify yours
The five dry skin care tips to keep in mind
Turn down the temperature
Hot water dries out the skin. To retain moisture, avoid taking extra hot baths or showers. Turn down the dial a few degrees to save your sensitive skin.
Always apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing
Cleansers leave the skin stripped and dry, so right after washing, while there is still water residue on your face, it is vital to lock it in with a protective covering, i.e. your moisturizer.
Consider using a face mist
Face mists are an often overlooked tool for keeping skin hydrated. Not only are they refreshing, but they can also be used before or after make-up, as a toner replacement or as a way to set makeup on the face. They are an easy way to give your skin a boost of moisture when it’s feeling tight.
Try using a humidifier
In the winter months especially when the air is dry, you’re your skin is hurting from the lack of moisture. Humidifiers can add some of that moisture back into the air and create a more hospitable environment for your skin.
Stay away from harsh, fragranced products
Skin care products that contain alcohol (especially SD Alcohol 40 and Denatured Alcohol), synthetic fragrances or “perfumes”, Sodium or Ammonium Laureth/Lauryl Sulfate, retinoids, or alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) can be especially drying and rough on dry skin. It’s a good idea to avoid these ingredients to prevent irritation and retain moisture.
Try adapting your daily “cleanse, tone, moisturize” skin care routine to include a few dry skin additions that will give your skin the added moisture it needs.
Dry skin care tips for Morning
Wash your face
Wash your face with lukewarm water—not too hot and not too cold— to wake yourself up without drying the skin or constricting your pores.
Cleanse your skin
Cleanse your skin with a sulfate-free, non-lathering cleanser. According to Renée Rouleau, skin care expert and esthetician, Sodium or Ammonium Laureth/Lauryl Sulfate are extremely drying and irritating to the skin. In addition, lathering bar soaps and strong foaming face washes strip the skin of its natural protective water and oils. Look for cleansers without these ingredients.
Moisturize
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. As you probably already know, moisturizing is key for dry skin types. Apply your moisturizer right after cleansing to lock in the water before it evaporates. Look for a moisturizer with a broad spectrum SPF to protect against the sun’s damaging rays, or layer in a sunscreen before or after your moisturizer. This will prevent extra dryness that occurs from sun damage in the long-term.
Dry skin care tips by Day
Your skin will dry out as it’s exposed to the elements throughout the day. That’s why it’s important to re-apply moisturizer whenever you notice your skin becoming dry. Carry a moisturizer in your bag so you can dab a little on whenever necessary.
Drink water. It may seem obvious, but sipping on water throughout the day naturally keeps your body— and by extension— your skin cells, hydrated.
Dry skin care tips by Night
At night, once again cleanse your skin of makeup and the day’s pollutants with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser using lukewarm water
Immediately after, apply a heavier moisturizer or cream that will sink in throughout the night. Rich creams are dry skin’s best friend. Look for creams containing nourishing ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, glycerin or oils such as olive, coconut, jojoba or argan oil. While these thicker lotions are too heavy for the day, the night gives your skin plenty of time to absorb all of their hydrating properties.
