Dry skin often feels tight or looks flaky but seldom gets shiny or suffers from spots. It can feel uncomfortable if not moisturized well and is prone to dehydration, leading to a rough texture and fine lines. Some skin when intensely dry and dehydrated can be prone to redness and stinging so soothing products which replenish natural oils are usually the best to choose.
Cream cleanser:
This is useful because it can dissolve make-up easily and does not strip the skin. Many cream cleansers can be removed with damp cotton pads rather than needing to be washed off and this can be more comfortable for dry skin. Even for someone who likes to wash the face, this kind of cleanser is useful when the skin is excessively dry or in very cold weather.
- Some cream cleansers come in the form of a non-lathering wash and these give the fresh feeling of soap but with the comfort of a cream.
- For convenience, look for a cream cleanser that takes off eye make-up as well. Try Caudalie.
Oil Cleanser:
These are excellent cleansers for removing heavier make-up or for giving a satisfying cleanse to city dwellers. Unlike balm cleansers, most oils emulsify with water and do not need to be removed with a cloth. Whilst a cloth does usually give a gentle exfoliation, it can be tough on drier skin to use every day so an oil cleanser gives the option of just using fingertips.
Rich Moisturizer:
Moisturizer is a basic for dry skin. A rich moisturizer will comfort and soothe the skin but also protect it.
- Look for a cream that contains nutrients and oils to nourish and replenish skin which may be naturally lacking in these. This will restore comfort and keep elasticity.
- Hydration is important in keeping skin smooth, plump and free from flaky patches and redness or stinging. Rich creams which also contain super hydrating ingredients are a must.
- Look for a product which leaves a layer on the surface of the skin rather than sinking in completely. This will protect the skin, compensating for a natural lack of oil.
Exfoliating Mask:
Exfoliating will remove dead dry skin and mean that moisturizer can sink in more easily, nourishing the skin better. It also removes rough, dull texture and leaves skin smoother and more supple. However, many exfoliating scrubs can feel harsh on dry skin, leaving it stripped and red. An exfoliating mask containing either gentle acids, fruit enzymes or a mixture of both can eat away the top layer of dead skin without scratching or scrubbing it physically.
- These masks can tingle so try a gentle one before buying peel type products. Also experiment with enzyme and non-enzyme masks to see which is more comfortable.
- Look for creamy formulas that feel soothing to the skin and use these a maximum of once a week. Elemental Herbology's Facial Glow is an excellent product as it combines the option of a creamy gentle scrub with a mask, meaning that it is possible to use either depending on the time of year or feeling of the skin.
- Be gentle with skin in the winter. It is still important to exfoliate but be careful not to strip skin when it needs the most protection.
- Moisturize well after exfoliating for maximum comfort and glow.
Emergency Rescue Balm:
By nature dry skin will occasionally become parched with redness, cracking and chapping or flakiness. This can be as a result of extreme weather, illness or an ineffective moisturizer. For comfort, an emergency balm can take away the sting as well as ease the look of peeling skin.
- Always carry an emergency balm in the winter.
- For real repair and nourishment, use a non-petroleum based product with natural oils that will sink into the skin and truly moisturize it. Mayday Mayday Balm from Ren or Elemental Herbology's Wind and Cold Therapy are both excellent and can be used on any areas including lips.
- To protect from extreme weather a petroleum or barrier product might be used. This will not nourish but simply protect broken skin from becoming damaged more, sealing it off from the elements.
- Do not use a rescue balm as a substitute for moisturizer and if the dry skin persists it might be time to find a new and richer daily moisturizer.
Moisturizing Cream Mask:
To restore radiance to dull, flaky or mature dry skin, a moisturizing cream mask will work instantly.
- Look for a nourishing formula with natural oils and hydrating ingredients.
- Some cream masks are suitable to be left on the skin overnight and these can be the most useful for offering a deep treatment that has visible effects.
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