HOW TO TARGET DRY SKIN
What are the main causes of dry skin on the face and how can you help keep it protected and moisturised?
Check out our top dry skin tips and find your perfect routine for dry skin with our caring and hydrating essentials.
WHAT IS DRY SKIN?
Dry skin is a very common skin condition caused by not having enough moisture in the most superficial, outer layer of your skin – the epidermis. This is the body’s first line of defence against the elements, including water and weather. Dry skin can develop on any part of your body. When skin is dry, it can begin to feel rough, tight and itchy.
The skin on your face is more exposed to the elements and the environment than skin on the body, so it’s important to find your perfect skincare routine for dry skin using gentle, hydrating formulas that won’t strip away its natural moisture.
“No matter your age, stage, gender, ethnicity or skin type, to have healthy skin you need to keep it hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using the right skincare products.”
Jennifer Hirsch
Beauty Botanist for The Body Shop
WHAT CAUSES DRY SKIN?
WEATHER CONDITIONS & UVA/UVB RAYS
Dry skin is more common in colder and drier months when humidity levels tend to be lower. This, along with indoor heating, can affect your skin’s ability to retain moisture which may make it look and feel drier.
While you’re at it, keep on the lookout for UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can cause damage beneath the skin’s surface, come rain or shine, and can accelerate signs of ageing. UVB rays trigger sunburn and damage your skin’s top layers when the sun is at its brightest. This is why it’s important to wear SPF all year round.
AGE & HORMONAL CHANGES
The older we get, the more prone we are to dry skin. This is because our body is more susceptible to losing its natural oils and lubricants which help the skin to retain its moisture.
Hormonal changes can also affect the condition of our skin. As we age, our bodies produce fewer hormones like oestrogen, the reproductive hormone in charge of stimulating oil glands in the body, and when we’re producing fewer natural oils, our skin can become dry and itchy. A healthy diet, sufficient sleep and exercise can all help to restore these hormonal imbalances.
DIET & DEHYDRATION
Getting your daily dose of vitamins and drinking enough water can help keep your skin nourished and hydrated. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C and E can help regulate your skin’s oil production, aid hydration, and help protect it from sun damage. Try incorporating flaxseeds, fish, avocado and coconut oil into your diet to reap their nutritious goodness, and don’t forget your two litres of water a day.
PRODUCTS & PAMPERING
Choosing a facial cleanser that’s not formulated for your skin type can cause our skin to dry out. Hot baths and showers are also sneaky culprits when it comes to irritated skin.
Switch to a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin, and try turning down the heat the next time you have a self-care soak. Your skin will thank you for it!
SKINCARE TIPS & ADVICE FOR DRY SKIN
What does dry skin need?
To combat dry, tight-feeling skin, build a routine centred around nourishing, moisture-rich skincare products. Look out for words like “hydrate” and “moisture”.
WHAT ARE THE BEST SKINCARE INGREDIENTS FOR DRY SKIN?
The best ingredients for dry skin are oils, butters and acids that help retain moisture. Our products for dry skin have a bit of all three to keep it looking and feeling soft, supple and hydrated.
Vitamin E
Body Enriched with hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich raspberry extract, our Vitamin E range is the answer to your dry skin prayers, as it helps to lock in hydration and gives you that fresh feeling. More Benefits of Vitamin E.
Camomile
Due to its gentle yet effective properties, camomile is sensitive skin's best friend. It can help to cleanse sensitive skin of impurities without irritating it in the process.
Hemp
Hemp seed oil, known for its hydrating properties, has been one of our favourite ingredients for over two decades. More Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil.
SHOULD I EXFOLIATE IF I HAVE DRY SKIN?
Exfoliating is important for any skin type. By removing dirt and debris from the surface of the skin, exfoliating helps your skin absorb your skincare more effectively. However, dry, sensitive skin types may only tolerate weekly or biweekly exfoliation where more resistant skin types benefit from more frequent exfoliation.
WHAT FOUNDATION IS BEST FOR DRY SKIN?
A liquid foundation is considered the better option for dry skin because of its hydrating properties. Our latest Fresh Nude Foundation is enriched with Vitamin E and Community Fair Trade Organic Aloe Vera to help your skin look radiant and feel moisturised for 24 hours. Not to mention the shade range!
WHAT’S THE BEST SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR DRY SKIN?
CLEANSE
Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter
Cleanse away the day with our Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter. With a soft, buttery texture, it's the perfect option for sensitive skin and hard-to-remove makeup.
TONE
Vitamin E Hydrating Toner
Enriched with vitamin E and wheatgerm oil, known for its moisturising properties, a quick swipe with a reusable cotton pad will leave skin feeling clean and ready for moisturiser.
MOISTURISE
Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream
A good moisturiser can be the daily dose of H2O your skin needs. Infused with a clever combo of vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, a few dabs helps provide up to 72 hours of much needed hydration.
Camomile Sumptuous Makeup Cleansing Butter
“For someone with sensitive and often dry skin, I find this cleansing butter so hydrating on my skin and it cleanses without stripping my skin of moisture or anything else that it needs. I will definitely be buying this again!”
EmOx
TOP TIPS FOR DRY SKIN FROM OUR SKINCARE EXPERT
1. Avoid hot baths & showers
2. Apply moisturiser immediately after washing
3. Wear lip balm
4. Add moisture to the air
5. Always use an SPF