How to Care for Very Dry Skin

Every skin type has its challenges. If you have oily skin, you might struggle with oiliness throughout the day. If you have dry skin, your skin might feel tight and uncomfortable by midday. However, one thing most of us share is that our skin tends to go a bit haywire when the seasons change. If you have dry skin, you know it can be challenging to keep it under control even at the best of times. But when autumn comes, it sometimes seems all of our products have stopped working all at once.

Causes of dry skin

The cause of dry skin can be internal or external. External causes include the change of season, harsh weather conditions, and change in temperature (cold air temperature outside followed by well-heated indoors). It could also be down to simple mistakes we make without even realizing (using harsh cleansers or taking hot baths, for example). Internal causes might include genetics, hormones or hormonal imbalance, diet, medication, and age.

Dry skin happens when our skin cannot effectively retain moisture and prevent moisture loss. It can no longer function as an effective barrier. That, in turn, means it is easier for irritants to cause problems. The products you normally use sting on the application. Your skin might be tight, uncomfortable, or even flake.

How to switch up your skincare routine

The goal is to replenish, soothe, and repair.

• Check your cleanser first. If you are using anything foamy, switch to creams, balms, or oils. Think cleansers that soothe and calm the skin, rather than strip it of its natural oils. We harp on endlessly about cleansers being one of the most important steps in your routine, and it's true.
• Take a break from your actives. No, you don't need to throw out your active treatment serums. Take a break until your skin returns to normal. Overexfoliation is one of the most common causes of an impaired moisture barrier.
• Switch your normal serum for a product that helps to repair the moisture barrier. Ingredients to look for include Hyaluronic acid (a humectant which means it retains moisture and also prevents further transepidermal moisture loss), Ceramides, and Glycerin.
• Consider including oil into your routine. It can make a massive difference to very dry and dehydrated skin.
• Last, but not least, now is not the time for light moisturisers. You need emollient-rich formulas to replenish the skin, lock in the moisture, and give you a sense of instant relief.

Simple tips on how to make your dry skin comfortable all over

• Try avoiding long hot showers or baths. Opt for warm water instead and try not staying in the shower for longer than 10 minutes.
• Pat yourself dry (don't rub with the towel as this can cause blotchiness and redness) and apply a body moisturiser on still-damp skin to lock in the moisture.
• If your hands are sensitive, remember to wear gloves when doing the dishes or cleaning around the house.
• If your skin is easily irritated, look for mild, unscented, alcohol-free products.
• Likewise, some people are sensitive to laundry detergents and softeners. Look for non-bio detergents and softeners (these do not contain enzymes and are more suitable for sensitive skin).
• If you have a humidifier, use it during the colder weather.

Our recommended routine for very dry skin

Cleanse

Thistle & Oat Cleansing oil is formulated with gentle, soap-free, cleansing agents that dissolve the sebum and remove the daily impurities. It doesn't strip the skin of its natural protective layer. It contains natural oils to leave the skin comfortable, and naturally sourced emulsifiers to condition and soften the skin.

Treat

Hydro-Magic Collagen Catalyst contains Hyaluronic acid, Natural Moisture Factor complex with Beta-Glucan to replenish the moisture reserves, and Tripeptide-5 to boost collagen synthesis.

Multi-Ceramide Concentrate with skin-identical lipids and sterols soothes, moisturises, and replenishes the skin. It contains a complex of plant-derived ceramides and Phytosterol to soothe, repair, and protect the skin.

Seal it all in

Hydrocharge facial oil contains Anhydrous Hyaluronic Acid Liposomes with Tripeptide-29 to hydrate, reduce inflammation, and encourage collagen synthesis. A blend of carefully selected oils (Tomato Seed, Andiroba, Squalane, Prickly Pear, and Oat Kernel oils) rich in fatty acids improves the skin's barrier function. A microalgae extract blocks the collagen degrading chemicals and reduces flakiness.

Hydraplus Cream is a light and soothing cream formulated with 5% Oat Beta-Glucan and 5% vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) in an organic emollient base. It boosts the natural Hyaluronic acid levels in the skin and helps repair the skin barrier.