Dealing with dry, dehydrated skin? Don’t despair. There’s a skin care routine for that!
Maybe your skin feels tight, scaly, flaky, or a combination of all three.
We’ve got you covered.
The following skin care routine and recommendations for dry skin can leave your skin happy, hydrated, and glowing.
Whether it’s a tried-and-true skin care regimen, how often you wash your hair, or the cosmetics you’re curious about, beauty is personal.
That’s why we rely on a diverse group of writers, educators, and other experts to share their tips on everything from the way product application varies to the best sheet mask for your individual needs.
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According to a 2020 study, a consistent skin care regimen can lead to measurable changes in dry skin.
Dry skin can be uncomfortable and is usually marked by scaling, itching, and cracking. While dry skin commonly affects the hands, arms, and legs, it can affect any part of the body.
There are several causes of dry skin. These include:
- environment
- hard water
- genetics
- excessive washing
- exposure to irritants
- medical conditions, like hypothyroidism or diabetes
These factors can be mostly classified into two categories,
“Dry skin causes can be classified as internal or external, and the easiest to address are the external factors,” says Sparks.
These include factors like:
- humidity
- bathing habits
- use of harsh soaps
Dry skin, flakiness, and cracked lips may be due to a vitamin B deficiency.
A deficiency in B vitamins “will also make you more sensitive to certain skin care products and sunlight,” she says.
Talk with your healthcare professional about taking a vitamin B complex supplement.
While the causes may differ, anyone can practice a skin routine for dry skin that will be to their benefit.
As skin dries, it shrinks and causes cracks, which can get deep, painful, and even start to bleed. Cracks allow germs and bacteria to enter the body, which can potentially lead to a skin infection
When it comes to a skin care routine for dry skin, keep the five steps listed below in mind:
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Cleanse with a hydrating cleanser that doesn’t disrupt the outer skin layer.
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Tone with an alcohol-free toner to restore skin pH.
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Target specific skin concerns with a serum.
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Moisturize with a nourishing, noncomedogenic moisturizer to lock in hydration.
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Protect from harmful UV rays to prevent sun damage.
Cleanse
Your first step is to choose a hydrating cleanser. You want a cleanser to remove dirt and oil without causing a disruption to the outer skin layer.
A good ingredient to look for is hyaluronic acid, as in CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
Tone
Many toners use alcohol as a main ingredient, which dries out the skin. Look for an alcohol-free toner with active ingredients that restore the pH levels of your skin.
A great option is Biore Clarifying Witch Hazel Toner,.
Target
This step helps to target specific skin concerns. Focus on hydration with a pure hyaluronic acid serum such as The Ordinary Hylauronic Acid 2% + B5.
Moisturize
A good moisturizer will lock in the benefits of a serum. Use a moisturizer daily that’s specifically designed for the face.
Protect
Daily sunscreen use prevents harmful UV rays from damaging the skin.
“I recommend wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from harsh UV rays regardless of your skin type. For sunscreen, I like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid Sun Cream
Lower cost options include Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser for Normal to Combination Skin
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