Dry skin is characterized by a lack of oil (alipidic) production. One has smaller pores and tends to have tight skin that’s possibly rough in texture and dry to the touch. Usually it is more sensitive because the acid mantle (outer most layer of skin) is compromised. This condition requires products that are more occlusive in nature, which will help to maintain water levels and moisture in the skin. The goal is to hydrate and nourish the skin.

Dry Skin vs. Dehydrated Skin

Dry skin is when there is a lack of oil in the skin whereas dehydrated skin is lacking water. All skin types can be dehydrated including oily skin. Dehydrated skin can look and feel thinner. It can be flakey, tight and dry. This condition requires more hydration and moisture. Depending on your overall skin type one may need to use humectants, and moisturizers to maintain skin balance.

Dry/Dehydrated Skin Care Routine:

Morning:

1. Rinse or cleanse: depending on how much residual oil or products you still feel on your face.

2. Use a toner (calming or restorative).

3. Optional: Apply antioxidant, preferably a vitamin C serum with or without vitamin E

4. Hydrating Moisturizer

5. Eye cream

6. Sunscreen (Broad spectrum UVA/UVB with at least SPF 30

Evening:

1. Remove make-up and sunscreen: try miceller water & oil cleansers.

2. Double cleanse: yes! That means cleanse and rinse twice.

3. Use a toner to reset pH balance.

4. Optional: Apply nutrient rich serum.

5. Hydrating moisturizer (you may also use both a hydrator and a moisturizer separately)

6. Eye cream

Note: It is important to exfoliate a few times a week. That being said this skin type is better off using products containing enzymes or alpha-hydroxy acid. Physical forms of exfoliation can create more damage. Gentle is the name of the game! Try using a moisturizing mask a couple of times a week for deeper levels of moisture retention.