Dry Skin? Here's What To Do!

While people with oily skin stress out over visible and clogged pores, those with dry skin battle dull and rough complexion.

If you struggle with dry skin, here are our exclusive tips for you!

What is Dry Skin?

We all experience dry skin occasionally. However, dry skin possesses these characteristics to a higher degree:

• Nearly invisible pores
• Occasional irritation and itching
• Tightness, especially after cleansing
• Occasional red patches
• Dull, rough, or "ashy" complexion
• Visible fine lines and wrinkles 
• Flakes and peeling

Causes of Dry Skin

Genetics are responsible for the type of skin you have. 

INSUFFICIENT SEBUM PRODUCTION

Dry skin typically lacks natural skin oil (sebum). It also loses moisture quickly.

COMPROMISED OUTER LAYER

When the outer layer of skin is impaired, it lacks the "lipids" or fats that help it hold onto moisture. Dry skin generally is deficient in the lipids it needs and this makes the skin more vulnerable to losing its elasticity.

Specific Dry Skin Problems

Dermatologists refer to this skin type as "vulnerable" because of the compromised outer layer. Outside elements easily penetrate since the protective barrier is weak. Harsh preservatives, cleansers, and chemicals pose a high risk to dry skin. 

Dry skin types are more vulnerable to premature aging caused by environmental stressors. In summary, moisturizing and protection are vital for this skin type.

MAIN PROBLEMS OF DRY SKIN:

• Dry, dull complexion
• Reactions to external elements
• Premature aging, fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging

WHEN AND WHERE DOES DRYNESS OCCUR?

With age, we may start to experience more dry skin than when we were younger, as aging depletes our skin of the fats it needs to retain moisture.

Lifestyle Factors to Manage Dry Skin

Simple lifestyle changes such as those listed below help keep dry skin healthy:

LUKEWARM WATER

Use lukewarm water to wash your face. It's less likely to strip the natural oils from your skin.

CHECK YOUR SOAPS AND DETERGENTS

Watch out for harsh ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, alcohols, synthetic fragrances, antibacterials, dyes, preservatives, and lye. These are not only found in skincare products but also most laundry detergents.

PROTECTION FROM UV RAYS

Wear sunscreen every day, whether it's summer or winter. 

CONSIDER A HUMIDIFIER

It might seem over-the-top, but if your skin is dehydrated, this tip might help. A humidifier increases the water content in the air in your home. Place one in your bedroom, so your skin gets some TLC as you sleep. 

PROTECTION FROM HARSH WEATHER

  A cold climate can also dry out the skin. Mitigate this by wearing scarves, gloves, and hats when stepping outside in the cold.

SOFT FABRICS

Bamboo, cotton, and silk have low absorbency levels; so they leave the skin moisturized. Avoid materials such as wool, as they irritate dry skin.

DIET CHANGE

Add fatty acids to your diet by consuming flaxseed, fish oil, and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements provide an extra boost.

ELIMINATE ALLERGENS AND IRRITANTS

You can do this by choosing natural and organic products that don't contain harsh chemicals.

Daily Regimen for Dry Skin

Revamp your daily routine for vibrant, healthy-looking skin:

WASHING GENTLY

You should be extremely gentle while cleansing. Cleansing products should have sensitive, nourishing formulas. Use lukewarm (not hot) water. If dryness persists, try using only water to wash in the morning, then a cleanser at bedtime.

Try our Rosewater Wellspring Cleanser. It gently removes oils, dirt, and other impurities while infusing moisture into the skin.

USE HYDRATING TONERS

Choose toners with moisturizing formulas. Such toners help rebalance your skin after cleansing and activate the hydration process. 

HEAVY-DUTY MOISTURIZERS

Dry skin needs more than just oil. It also requires fats to help strengthen the outer layer. 

Tip: Make sure you moisturize immediately after bathing or cleansing to reduce the risk of dehydration. 

Weekly Regimen

Adding these steps every week will ensure more glowing, hydrated skin:

HYDRATING MASKS

Moisturizing in the morning and at night, while helpful, is not enough. Use a moisturizing mask 2-4 times a week, depending on dryness levels. Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes then rinse off gently. 

If you fancy doing it yourself (DIY), you can make hydrating masks with bananas, avocado, yogurt, and honey.

Tip: Soaking in your warm bath for 15 minutes with the mask on helps the nutrients penetrate deeper into the skin.

EXFOLIATION

Dry skin needs extremely gentle exfoliation. Avoid products that contain crushed nuts- these are harsh on the skin. DIY lovers can try mixing a can of pumpkin with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Leave it on for 5-15 minutes. The pumpkin's natural enzymes will loosen up dead skin cells.

TREATMENTS

Use gentle alpha-hydroxy acids to exfoliate and moisturize.  We recommend naturally-derived ones like sugar cane (glycolic), fruits (malic), and milk (lactic). Apply these products as needed, typically 2-3 times a week.

REJUVENATE

Environmental stressors cause a lot of damage to our skin and speed up the aging process. Anti-aging products that contain natural ingredients work best in nourishing your skin. 

Try a light application of our Neroli Radiance Serum, which contains powerful antioxidants. Follow through with Espresso Bright Eyes cream to revitalize the delicate skin around your eyes, reduce dark circles, and decrease puffiness.

Say goodbye to dry skin struggles by applying these tips. Be sure to let us know what works for you!

Much love,

The Sole Toscana Skincare Team

 

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