If you have dry skin, you’ll know that finding the perfect skincare regimen can be the difference between unsightly flaking and glowing, healthy skin. So in this quick 3-minute read, we explain the different types of dry skin and share our top tips on how to prevent and understand the right products to treat it.
What causes dry skin?
Aside from medical conditions, dry skin can also be caused by:
Cold or dry weather – In the winter, extreme temperatures can cause dry, flaky skin. Look to switch up your daily routine during these months by applying hydrating skincare products – like a rich night cream or moisturising cleanser.
Harsh soaps or ingredients – If your skin is prone to dryness, steer clear of drying ingredients like fragrances and alcohols.
Chemical peels and exfoliators - We love ingredients such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid for exfoliating the skin. But if your skin is extremely sensitive, these can cause further irritation by stripping it of its natural moisture.
Types of dry skin
Dry skin types can also be the result of a health condition:
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema triggered when your skin comes into contact with an allergen. It usually appears as an itchy rash, sometimes followed by dry, cracked and even blistered skin. The reaction usually calms down within a few hours.
Seborrheic dermatitis
Mainly affecting your scalp but can appear elsewhere on the body, seborrheic dermatitis appears when your sebaceous glands produce excess oil. The skin condition causes red, scaly and itchy skin.
Atopic dermatitis
The most common type of eczema, atopic dermatitis, is mainly caused by the skin's inability to retain moisture. But flare-ups are common as the dryness makes the skin more sensitive to certain triggers – such as irritants, foods and environmental factors.
How to get rid of dry skin?
If you struggle with extremely dry skin, your bathroom cabinet is probably packed with creams and serums. But if you’re not exfoliating, you might just be layering products on top of dead skin cells—preventing them from working effectively. The key to soft, hydrated skin is a combination of exfoliation, the right skincare products, and good habits.
1. Exfoliate Gently
Removing dead skin cells helps your moisturizers absorb better. Use a gentle exfoliator 2-3 times a week—either a chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or a mild physical scrub. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin.
2. Use a Hydrating Cleanser
Switch to a cream or oil-based cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of moisture. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin to keep skin soft and nourished.
3. Lock in Moisture
Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still damp to seal in hydration. Choose a rich formula with shea butter, squalane, or ceramides for long-lasting moisture.
4. Add a Facial Oil
A few drops of jojoba, squalane, or rosehip oil can provide an extra moisture boost, especially at night. Layer it over your moisturizer to prevent water loss.
5. Hydrate Inside & Out
Drink plenty of water and eat omega-3-rich foods like avocados and salmon to support skin hydration from within. If the air in your home is dry, a humidifier can help prevent moisture loss.
By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, you can banish dry, flaky skin and achieve a smoother, healthier complexion.
