Dry skin care: helpful tips, habits, and remedies
Dry skin can feel tight, flaky, itchy and uncomfortable—especially during colder months or after long days in air-conditioned rooms. But with the right care, you can reduce itch and restore moisture, softness, and a healthy glow. Whether your skin is naturally dry or just drier certain times of year, this guide will help you build a routine that truly nourishes. Dry skin happens when your skin loses too much water or oil. Common triggers include cold weather, low humidity, hot showers or harsh soaps, and over-exfoliating. As we age, we tend to have lower levels of natural moisturizing factors and oil that keep the skin hydrated.
Build a simple and effective skincare routine
Choose a morning routine gentle cleanser that is mild, hydrating cleanser free of sulfates and alcohol. Your daily body wash or soap should be mild and fragrance free. Then follow with applying a moisturizer; choosing a rich cream containing ceramides, glycerin, shea butter, or squalene can help replenish moisture. Make sure to moisturize your entire body, not just your face!
Sunscreen: Even dry skin needs sun protection, so do not skip this part. Opt for a moisturizers containing SPF 30 or higher.
Evening routine: If you wear makeup, remove it with an oil cleanser first, and then follow with a hydrating serum. Serums containing hyaluronic acid can be helpful, and then follow this with a heavier night cream or oil. If you apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp, it helps to trap in moisture and increase hydration.
Additional tips to help dry skin:
Humidifiers can help to restore moisture to indoor air, especially in low humidity environments or the colder, winter months.
Exfoliate gently and infrequently. You only need to do this once or twice a week with a mild exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, if at all. More frequently exfoliation will lead to increased dryness and more irritated skin.
Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water and eat water-rich fruits and vegetables. You truly are what you eat.
Avoid long, hot showers: While they may be relaxing at times, warm water is best to prevent further drying. The hotter the water, the more drying it can be as it removes the skin’s natural oils that keep it hydrated. Try to keep your showers or baths to less than 10 minutes duration in total. Pat dry, and moisturize while the skin is still damp!
Recommended list of ingredients to look for when choosing products
Hyaluronic Acid
Ceramides
Glycerin
Oat Extract
Petrolatum
Shea butter
Try to minimize use of products with alcohol, fragrances, and harsh exfoliants, as they can worsen dryness.
Final Thoughts:
Caring for dry skin is all about consistency. Be gentle, stay hydrated, and choose nourishing products that support your skin barrier. With time, your skin will feel smoother, softer, and visibly healthier. If any of these tips are not enough, schedule your visit with Dr Burris today.
