Dry skin is a common concern out there and although some of us are naturally born with a dryer skin, there are things that can certainly exacerbate the dryness. On the other hand, our skin can feel dry, but is it really dry? or could it be dehydrated? Here we list the things to do for dry skin and some things to avoid so we can help our skin feel it's healthiest.
DO Exfoliate Regularly
Regular exfoliation is important for all skin types, especially dry skin. Exfoliation is going to instantly buff away dry dead skin cells that have built up on the surface of the skin. It leaves the skin feeling soft with a smooth appearance, and it will allow for deeper penetration of all your future skin care products. Regular exfoliation will also speed up our cell turnover, which naturally slows down as we age. An increased cell turnover leads to younger, brighter and firmer looking skin. To determine which exfoliant is going to be best for your skin, reach out to us for some Expert Advice from one of our Skin Therapists.
DON'T confuse dryness and dehydration
Dry Skin
- Permanent- You're born with it
- Lacks Sebum (oil) and the inability to maintain water retention
- Can experience: Falkiness, cracked or sensitive skin
- Needs water moisture layered with topical emollients to lock in hydration
Dehydrated Skin
- Can develop over time
- Lacks water moisture and the ability to retain it due to many factors
- Can experience: tightness, dry patches, increased oil prodcutions leading to breakouts
- Needs water moisture and oil-balancing if excess sebum is present.
Targeting a product for hydration, we recommend the Circular Hydration Serum to keep moisture levels at their optimum...no matter what your skin type!
1. Locks in hydration and promotes a healthy skin barrier
2. Delivers natural hydration
3. Stimulates hydration from within
DO get a professional recommendation for a moisturiser from a therapist
It can be confusing trying to decide which mosituriser is right for your skin. While your skin type is dry, you may have other concerns like sensitivity or ageing, and a specific moisturiser can treat those additional concerns. A moisturiser is your last line of defence against dry skin, locking in hydration and protecting your skin's barrier, so it is a step not to be missed. Reach out to us if you need our help in prescribing the best moisturiser for you and your concerns.
DON'T forget to layer your products
There is no one product that does it all, I'm afraid, and often a combination of multiple products is required to achieve those desired results. So, don't forget to layer the appropriate products...and in the right order! Layering of serums or oils underneath your moisturiser is a great way of getting a concentrated boost of hydration directly into the skin with targeted ingredients. And after you've applied your moisturiser layering a hydrating primer on top is another way of boosting moisture and keeping dryness at bay for longer. Need help in working out which products are best- let us know and we would be happy to help!
DO target and treat with nourishing masks
Masques can be seen as an indulgent treat sometimes, but they are an integral part of a skin care routine for dry skin. A weekly masque is a great way of amplifying the results of your home care when you can't come for a professional skin treatment. The MultiVitamin Masque is a fantastic option for those with dry skin as its packed with vitamins and nourishing in consistency.
- Helps repair and restore damaged skin.
- Provides anti-inflammatory benefits while moisturizing, soothing and calming.
- Aids in skin repair and hydration.
- Helps restore moisture balance while softening skin.
- Helps soothe and calm skin while decreasing sensitivity.
DON'T neglect the dry skin on the rest of your body
Pay attention to all your dry areas, legs, arms ect. You want to make sure you are using a body wash that is gentle and non stripping on the skin. And regular body exfoliation is just as important as exfoliation on your face, helping to shed those dry dead skin cells. And always follow up with a nourishing body moisturiser or oil to lock in hydration and protect the skin. Dermalogica's Body Essentials make your skin feel incredibly refreshed, clean, smooth and hydrated and they have the most amazing smell so you really are taking on a complete sensory journey. Within the Bath Rituals is the Conditioning Body Wash, Body Hydrating Cream and Thermafoliant Body Scrub.
DO nourish your skin from the inside out
What we feed our bodies with has just as much of an effect on our skin as the products we apply, if not more. Achieving our results not only comes from our consistent and targeted home care products, it comes from a healthy diet full of nutrtious nutrients. Getting all the requirement daily amounts can be chellenging, so this is where nutrtional support comes into it.
Dry skin especially will benefit from a daily does of good Omega's. Omegas act like internal hydrators for the skin. Are you always applying body moisturiser and still feeling dry? If yes, then Omega's are a must for you.
- Acts as an internal moisturiser for the skin
- Gives the skin a luminous glow
- Nourishes dry skin all over the body
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Helps to support skin health
DON'T use or expose your skin to hot water
If you have dry skin you need to be cleansing with warm water, not hot. Hot water melts away the natural oils in the skin, sucking out the moisture and leaving the skin dryer and often irritated. Pay special attention to the temperature of the water when you are cleansing your skin to avoid exacerbating your dryness even further.
DO reassess your skin as you age and as the seasons change
As mentioned. our cell renewal rate slows down as we age, making us dry. For some this might be a new skin condition that we are not used to. Don't be afraid to change and adapt the products in your routine if you find your skin is changing. Similarly as the seasons change we may need to adjust our skin routine, especially moving into winter, to more nourishing and protective products. If you need advice about changes that are happening with your skin, please let us know.
DON'T resign yourself to a lifetime of dry skin
Just because your skin is dry doesn't mean you have to put up with it and move on! There are lots of things you can do if you have dry skin to relieve and soothe. Many of the do's and don'ts we've already discussed will get you on the road to managing your dryness and getting you on track to your softest, smoothest skin ever. Regular skin treatments with a professional therapist will make a huge difference, and don't forget we are always here to help with any questions or queries you have.
About the Author
My name is Sarah and I am the founder of GLO Skin Body. With over almost 20 years experience, I believe a professional relationship with your skin therapist is crucial in helping you to achieve your skin care goals and to ensure your skin is always looking and feeling its best. Whether it's in person or through our online support, Im here to guide and support you towards your healthiest skin ever.
On a personal note, I am a Mum of 3 so I understand completely the juggles and balancing of life and family commitments . My goal is to help everyone have an effective and enjoyable home care routine that gets you the results you want...no matter how busy you are!
