Taking Care of Dry Skin

How to Take Care of Dry Skin – Amtan Medical

Dry skin also known as xeroderma is a condition in which the skin lacks moisture. The skin may crack and peel or it may become irritated, itchy and inflamed.

Causes of dry skin:

• Genetics
• Low humidity
• Sunburn
• Vitamin deficiency
• Hot showers
• Harsh soaps
• Exposure to dry, hot air
• Medication

To keep dry skin from becoming problematic, the skin’s hydration process must be boosted and the habits that dehydrate skin should be avoided. Finding the right skincare products is also important. These are some common steps to follow:

• Drinking enough water and keeping the skin hydrated is the first and foremost step towards managing dry skin.
• A diet rich in healthy fats can help to improve the moisture-holding capacity of the skin. Salmon, flaxseed, algae oil etc will provide ample Omega-3 and omega-6 oils.
• Use hydrating lotions and moisturizers.
• Using facial oil on dry skin can help nourish and hydrate complexion. Applying facial oils over moisturizer helps to maximize hydration.
• Apart from face, your hands and lips also should be kept hydrated. Always carry a lip conditioner and hand cream.
• Mist your face in regular intervals if continuously exposed to air conditioners.
• Opt for warm showers instead of hot showers.

Morning Skincare Routine

Cleanse

If you have dry skin, use a mild, gentle, and hydrating face wash. It’s better to use a cleanser that is pH-balanced to match the slightly acidic pH of the skin.  

Apply Serum

If you have dry skin, always make it a point to apply facial serum as a layer below moisturizer.  It helps to keep your skin hydrated. Serums contain a high concentration of antioxidants that prevent damage caused by harmful free radicals.

Moisturize

The most crucial step in caring dry skin is proper moisturizing. Immediately after washing your face, massage it with a moisturizer. Always pat dry your skin with a towel and apply moisturizer on damp skin. Go for a product that contains hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerine, and B vitamins.

Sun Protection

Once you have moisturized your skin, it is time to layer it with sun protection. Sun protection is crucial for preventing UV damage and keeping your skin healthy. When picking a product, always go for something that has at least SPF 30.

Night Skincare Routine

Remove dirt and makeup 

Never sleep over with your makeup on. You may use an oil-based cleanser or a cleansing oil to remove your makeup.

Cleanse  

Use a gentle water-based cleanser to wash your face.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating or scrubbing helps get rid of dead skin cells and makes your skin smooth and soft. Always use a moisturizing face scrub or exfoliator to clean your face.

Facial Mist

Use a toning mist instead of astringent lotions. Mists help to keep your skin hydrated and prepare it to absorb other skin care products.

Hydrating Serum

You may use the serums mentioned under the daytime skin care routine to keep the skin replenished.

Night Cream Or Sleep Mask

A good-quality moisturizing night cream can help repair and help your skin recover while you sleep.  

Mistakes to be avoided

• Over cleansing the skin can and make it itchy. When we wash our skin with a cleanser, soap, or body wash, it washes away the natural oils. People with dry skin should avoid washing face frequently.
• Exfoliating can be bad for dry skin if it is overdone. Do not exfoliate your skin more than twice a week.
• People with dry skin should always opt for hydrating masks otherwise the skin may become irritated.
• Taking a hot shower can peel off the hydrating factors from the skin.