This skin type above all others can manifest in a wide range of skin conditions, accelerated aging or a perfectly clear complexion. Dry skin is often temporary, perhaps rearing its head in winter, although it can be a lifelong condition. Cold winter air means low humidity, both outdoors and indoors. The water content of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) tends to reflect the level of humidity around it.
Signs and symptoms of dry skin depend on your age, your health, where you live, time spent outdoors and other topical issues. Symptoms may include a feeling of skin tightness, (especially after showering, bathing or swimming); skin that feels and looks rough; Itching (pruritus); slight to severe flaking, scaling or peeling; fine lines or cracks; grey, ‘ashy’ skin; redness; deep cracks that may bleed. Do not despair, Nicole Kidman has a dry skin type and still manages to look like a classic beauty with a perfect complexion.
Our Dry Skin Tips:
- Use a humidifier in the winter. Set it to around 60%, a level that should be sufficient to replenish the top layer of the skin.
- Limit yourself to one 5- to 10-minute bath or shower daily. If you bathe more than that, you may strip away much of the skin's oily layer and cause it to lose moisture. Use lukewarm rather than hot water, which can wash away natural oils.
- Minimize your use of soaps; if necessary, choose moisturizing preparations such as Moroccan Natural’s Wonder Bar with Rhassoul. Steer clear of deodorant soaps, perfumed soaps, and alcohol products, which can strip away natural oils.
- Gently brush and exfoliate skin when wet and pat or blot (don't rub) the skin when towelling dry. Adding dry brushing to your routine a couple times a week to buff away the dead skin. Dry brushing is a great technique to encourage cell turnover, aid lymphatic drainage and detoxify your system (toxins can get trapped under dead cells). It helps to reveal fresh, taut skin, while also allowing the skin to retain moisture more efficiently
- Apply oil immediately after bathing or washing your hands. This helps plug the spaces between your skin cells and seal in moisture while your skin is still damp. We suggest Organic Argan Body Oil from Moroccan Natural for the body and Rose Geranium Serum for your face.
- Never, ever scratch. A cold pack or compress, or natural Coconut oil and Aloe Vera Gel are ideal soothing lotions for itchy spots.
It’s worth mentioning that skin specialists and dermatologists may prescribe corticosteroids for dry skin conditions (including dermatitis & eczema). However, we believe avoiding these types of medication is better for your overall health in the long run. Instead, natural remedies and a balanced diet hold the key to preventing an increase in dry skin conditions and unleashing your skins natural radiance!
Dietary Considerations
There’s a wealth of scientific evidence in essential fatty acids benefiting and preventing dry skin conditions. Omega-3 fats help to normalize your skin fats and prevent dehydration in your cells. This keeps your skin cells strong and full of moisture, which can help to decrease the appearance of fine lines.
Fatty-acid deficiency can manifest in a variety of ways, but skin problems such as eczema, thick patches of skin, and cracked heels are common. Plus, omega-3 fats may have an anti-inflammatory effect that can help to calm irritated skin, giving you a clearer, smoother complexion. GLA-containing food (A branch of Omega 6) given to adults in one study was shown to improve skin barrier function in subjects with dry skin conditions and mild atopic dermatitis. (Kawamura et al.)
Antioxidants regulate oil production in the skin, prevent cell damage, lubricate cell membranes, produce collagen and encourage new cell growth for smooth, supple skin. A deficiency in vitamin D leads to dry, flaky skin, proving that the sun is not all bad! Limiting sugar and grains, and supplementing with fermented foods or beneficial probiotic bacteria, may help to reduce eczema and slow premature aging of your skin - never forget to start with food first.
Following these tips should help to treat and prevent the most common issues with this skin type. Glowing skin is always in!
