How to Identify Dry Skin

•→ Tight, uncomfortable feeling, especially after cleansing

•→ Visible flakiness, rough patches, or dull appearance

•→ Fine lines appear more pronounced

•→ Small, almost invisible pores

•→ Skin may feel itchy or irritated

•→ Products absorb quickly without leaving residue

Dry skin (xerosis) occurs when the skin lacks sufficient natural oils (lipids) and struggles to retain moisture. This compromises the skin barrierthe outermost layer that protects against environmental aggressors and prevents water loss. Understanding the difference between dry and dehydrated skin is essential for effective treatment.

Dry vs Dehydrated: What's the Difference?

Dry Skin (Skin Type)

Lacks oil production. Genetic and consistent. Needs lipid-rich products.

Dehydrated Skin (Condition)

Lacks water. Temporary and treatable. Any skin type can be dehydrated. Needs humectants.

What Causes Dry Skin?

Genetics

Some people naturally produce fewer lipids. Conditions like eczema and ichthyosis have genetic components.

Age

Sebum production decreases with age. Skin also produces less natural moisturising factors (NMFs) over time.

Climate & Environment

Cold weather, low humidity, central heating, and air conditioning all strip moisture from skin.

Harsh Products

Over-exfoliation, alcohol-based products, and sulphate cleansers damage the skin barrier.

Best Ingredients for Dry Skin

HUMECTANT

Hyaluronic Acid

Draws moisture from environment into skin; holds 1000x its weight in water

BARRIER REPAIR

Ceramides

Essential lipids that restore and strengthen the skin barrier

EMOLLIENT

Squalane

Lightweight oil that mimics skin's natural sebum; deeply nourishing

HUMECTANT

Glycerin

Draws water into skin; one of the most effective humectants

OCCLUSIVE

Shea Butter

Rich in fatty acids; creates protective layer to lock in moisture

NOURISHING

Plant Oils

Jojoba, rosehip, marularich in fatty acids and antioxidants

Ingredients to Use Sparingly

Alcohol (denat.) - severely drying
Sulphates (SLS, SLES) - harsh surfactants that strip oils
High-strength retinoids (initially) - start low and slow
Fragrance - can irritate already compromised skin
Over-use of AHAs/BHAs - can worsen dryness if barrier is damaged

Recommended Routine

Morning

Gentle cream or milk cleanser (or water only)
Hydrating toner or essence
Hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin
Rich moisturiser with ceramides
Hydrating SPF 30+

Evening

Oil or balm cleanser
Gentle milk or cream cleanser
Hydrating serum
Nourishing night cream or sleeping mask
Facial oil to seal (optional)

Pro Tips for Dry Skin

→ Apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin, then seal with moisturiser

→ Use a humidifier in winter to add moisture to indoor air

→ Avoid very hot waterlukewarm is gentler on skin

→ Layer products thinnest to thickest for best absorption

→ Consider a hydrating overnight mask 2-3x per week

→ Pat products in rather than rubbing

Dryness & Dehydration