Moisturize, Moisturize And Moisturize Some More

It sounds really, really obvious. We know. But moisturizing your skin frequently is one of the only ways to combat dryness and flaking. Plus, you need to make sure that you're using the right moisturizer for your skin - and that you use it at the right time. Typically, skincare experts recommend that you moisturize after taking a shower as pores are more open and are therefore more able to soak up moisture. You should also use a product that contains glycerin and ideally, that contains it as the first ingredient - this means that glycerin is the main ingredient. It works as a bit of a barrier, helping your skin hold on to moisture, which helps to protect against future dryness. As for how frequently you should be moisturizing, once a day is usually enough, but if you have particularly dry skin, moisturize twice a day - once in the morning and once at night.

Some people need moisturizers that are very rich whilst others will need light moisturizers that don't weigh their skin down - so make sure you choose the right products and apply them at the right time.

Use Gentle Products

Harsh soaps and harsh cleansers can dry skin out quite severely, and no matter how much moisturizer you use, if you keep on using products that are harsh and drying, your skin will still be dry. Make the switch to gentle products and cleansers and you should notice a difference in the texture of your skin.

Protect and Perfect

Whenever you go out into the sun - and even through the winter months - it's important that you apply a suntan lotion with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from the drying effects of the sun. If your skin is really, really dry, and you find that moisturizers aren't really doing the trick, think about applying petroleum jelly to the skin as a barrier cream. When skin is really dry and feels particularly sensitive, applying a chemical-laden moisturizer to the skin can make matters even worse. Instead, using petroleum jelly as a barrier cream or as a moisturizer can help to soothe skin and protect it from further drying damage. It contains only one ingredient, which means that it's gentle on even the most sensitive skin.

Read More: Nourish Your Skin With Essential Oils

Oaty Goodness

Oats have been used for centuries to help soothe dry, itchy skin. If the itch is getting you down, or you just want a relaxing bath, grind old-fashion oats in a blender and sprinkle into the bath as the water runs. Soak for at least 15 minutes, then follow up with a moisturizer and you should notice a huge difference.

Exfoliate Gently

As our skin cells age, they can accumulate on the skin's surface, leading to a dull, rough appearance. Exfoliating helps to slough off these dead skin cells, allowing new, fresher cells to emerge. It can also help unclog pores, prevent acne breakouts, and improve the effectiveness of skincare products by allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin.

For dry or sensitive skin, it's crucial to select a gentle exfoliator to avoid irritation. Look for products labeled as "gentle," "mild," or "for sensitive skin." Avoid exfoliators with large, abrasive particles, such as walnut shells, as these can cause microtears in the skin and worsen dryness.

How often you should exfoliate depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliator you use. For most people with dry or sensitive skin, exfoliating once or twice a week is sufficient. Over-exfoliating can lead to redness, irritation, and excessive dryness, so it's essential to find a balance that works for your skin.

Avoid Irritants

Avoiding irritants is an essential aspect of caring for sensitive or dry skin. Many external factors and products can trigger irritation, inflammation, and worsen dryness. By identifying and avoiding these irritants, you can help maintain healthier, more comfortable skin. Here's a detailed explanation of how to avoid irritants:

Opt for skincare products that are specifically formulated for sensitive or dry skin. Look for labels that say "fragrance-free," "hypoallergenic," or "for sensitive skin." Avoid products containing alcohol, harsh chemicals, or strong fragrances, as these can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.

When trying out new skincare or cosmetic products, perform a patch test on a small area of skin, such as the inside of your wrist, before applying it to your face or body. This helps identify any potential allergic reactions or irritation.

Dry skin can be cured with a little bit of care and attention - but if you're concerned about your skin and whether you're suffering from a skin condition, see your doctor.