It’s a harsh reality for all of us that the way you take care of your dry skin may actually not be so great for your complexion.
Sometimes, knowing the basics just isn’t enough. Even if you cleanse and use moisturizer twice a day, you could be overlooking a few important parts of your skin care routine.
While nobody’s perfect, wouldn’t it be nice to limit the likelihood of those skin care slip-ups? You may not be able to change your skin type, but you can help care for dry skin like a pro.
You just need to know what not to do when it comes to your skin care routine. Here, we’re sharing the top 7 things to avoid if you have dried out skin.
1. Stop cleansing your skin too much
Yes, cleansing is important in any skincare routine, but too much of it can cause dry skin, especially for someone with dry skin. Make sure you look for a cleanser that is gentle and good for dry skin. Experts recommend cleaning your skin only twice a day, so avoid exposing your skin to too many chemicals.
2. Don’t take hot showers
We know that nothing’s more relaxing than a hot shower in the winter season, but it’s not so good for your skin. Bathing in water that’s too hot for the body can strip your skin of its essential oils. So, the next time you hop in the shower, cleanse your skin with lukewarm water instead.
3. Stop over-exfoliating
It is vital to figure out how often you should exfoliate your skin depending on your skin type. Someone with dry skin might not be able to handle daily exfoliation. You should pay attention to how your skin reacts to exfoliation. It is recommended that people with dry skin should slough their skin only once or twice a week.
4. Do not skip sun protection
Dry skin or not – you should never skip sunscreen. It is year-round protection necessary for your skin. According to the Food and Drug Administration, you should wear on SPF of 15 or higher to avoid skin problems. Just select a mild sunscreen that causes your skin to dry out. Some sunscreens contain zinc oxide that constricts bodily tissues (makes your skin less oily) and leads to dry skin.
5. Avoid drying your face before applying moisturizer
Raise your hand if you tend to reach out for a towel to dry your face right after a shower. Well, you’re not alone – a lot of people tend to do that. But the American Academy of Dermatology recommends that the best time to moisturize your face is before you dry off. It can help lock in hydration, which is the most essential to get rid of dry skin.
6. Using any lotion or moisturizer you can find
While using a lotion or moisturizer regularly is important, especially if you have dry skin. But it is equally as important to grab one that suits your skin type. Also, the cream that worked for you in your 20s might not work so well in your 30s. Look for a moisturizer that contains ceramides that forms a barrier on your skin and prevents moisture loss.
7. You don’t drink enough water
This one should not come as a surprise. Not drinking enough water can deprive your skin of its essential nutrients and moisture, which causes the problem. Make sure you drink enough water and eat fruits and vegetables high in water content such as tomatoes, cucumber, oranges, pineapples, etc.
