Most women would probably answer “moisturiser” if asked about their favorite skincare product. However, there’s a conundrum when it comes to moisturising and dry skin, stirring up lively debates among experts.

Undoubtedly, moisturisers provide relief for sore, dry skin. But there’s a theory that excessive use can create a self-perpetuating cycle. Your skin gets dry, so you apply moisturiser, but then your skin becomes “lazy” and loses its ability to hydrate itself. You become more and more reliant on moisturiser.

Dry skin can be caused by various factors and its severity can vary depending on whether you have dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis. Dermatitis, also known as extremely dry skin, can occur due to contact with irritants like soap, chemicals, washing powder, or other detergents. It can also be triggered by allergies to certain substances, such as latex.

Another form of dermatitis is atopic dermatitis, which is commonly known as eczema. This chronic inflammation of the skin is often hereditary and is worsened by abnormal reactions to irritants, food, and environmental allergens. It typically results in redness, flakiness, and itchiness, commonly appearing on the face, elbows, and the backs of the knees.

For most people, dry skin is more noticeable during seasonal changes, particularly in the colder winter months. This is because the skin is constantly exposed to the cold and wind outside, as well as the drying effects of central heating indoors. Regular hot baths and showers, swimming (especially in chlorinated pools), and the use of certain products like soaps, detergents, hand washes, hand sanitisers, and shampoos can also contribute to dryness by stripping away the skin’s natural oils.

Having dry skin can sometimes feel like being stuck in a never-ending cycle of relying on moisturisers. However, for most people, it’s natural to turn to moisturising products for relief. Not only does well-moisturised and hydrated skin feel and look nicer, but it can also help reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, which tend to be more noticeable on dry skin. Moisturisers, with their high water content, provide much-needed hydration to dry skin cells, creating a nurturing and soothing sensation when applied. It’s no wonder many women love their moisturisers – they often have a lovely texture and a pleasant aroma.

There are various types of ingredients found in moisturisers that work in different ways. Humectants like glycerine, urea, and hyaluronic acid attract water to the outer layers of the skin, while occlusives like oils and lanolin create a protective barrier to lock in moisture and prevent it from escaping into the air. Emollients such as oils, shea butter, and lanolin help smooth out the skin’s surface by filling in tiny cracks in its protective barrier.

In recent years, hydrating serums have gained popularity. These serums, often containing hyaluronic acid, possess powerful water-attracting properties that help replenish moisture in the skin. Unlike most moisturisers that sit on the surface of the skin, these serums penetrate the skin layers, moisturising from within like a sponge.

Dry skin around the mouth can occur due to various reasons, but the most common cause is a change in outdoor temperature, especially during colder months when a wind chill is present. When our lips and mouth become dry, the instinctive response of licking them to moisturize often exacerbates the issue, resulting in even drier and chapped skin.

Moreover, skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, specifically perioral dermatitis, can further contribute to dryness around the delicate mouth area.

Understanding the factors that contribute to dry skin around the mouth helps us take necessary measures to alleviate discomfort and maintain optimal skin health.

To prevent dry skin and maintain its healthy function, it’s important to keep your skin hydrated. Here are some tips:

Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated from within helps nourish your skin and maintain its moisture.

Use products for skin barrier repair: Look for products that encourage skin cell turnover and exfoliation. Retinols or vitamin A products can be slightly irritating at first, but they can improve your skin’s long-term function.

Protect your skin from the sun: Wear SPF to shield your skin from harmful UV rays, which can damage and disrupt its normal function.

Limit hot baths and showers: Hot water can strip away your skin’s natural oils and contribute to dryness. Try to keep your bathing time and water temperature in check.

Mindful choice of products: Be cautious of the chemicals and detergents in your everyday products. Opt for less harsh and skin-friendly brands, from washing powder to cleaning products, shampoos, and soaps.

Remember, taking care of your skin is important to prevent dryness and promote its overall health.

Eczema is a common skin condition with an unknown exact cause. It primarily affects the face, hands, and elbows, resulting in redness, itchiness, and dryness. While there is a genetic tendency to develop this condition, symptoms can unexpectedly flare up for no apparent reason. However, there are specific triggers that can impact eczema, such as exposure to chemicals, detergents, soap, or shampoo, bacterial or viral infections, inhalation of irritants like pollen or dust mites, stress, fatigue, hormonal fluctuations (e.g., before menstruation), and consumption of certain foods. With all these factors in mind, it’s important to understand and manage eczema effectively.

Our skin is composed of about 60% of water. However, it’s prone to becoming dry. When the skin barrier, which acts as a protective layer, gets damaged or compromised, it loses water, resulting in dryness and roughness. But fret not, because there are effective ways to address dry skin and restore a healthy skin barrier.

You can opt for in-clinic treatments like peels, dermaplaning, laser resurfacing, and hydro-facials. These treatments can help remove dead skin layers and stimulate the skin’s natural healing process. If you prefer taking care of your skin at home, you can use products that contain active ingredients like vitamin A or acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid. These products help exfoliate the skin and promote healthy skin function.

It’s important to note that some of these products may require persistence and temporary discomfort. However, the results are worth the investment if you can persevere. Alternatively, you can consider using a high-quality moisturiser or hyaluronic acid serum to keep your skin hydrated and supple. And let’s not forget the simplest step – stay hydrated by drinking water, nature’s natural hydrator!

Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right strategies and products, you can achieve healthy and radiant skin. So, embrace the journey to rejuvenated skin and enjoy the benefits of a well-nourished complexion.

Are you seeking a natural, at-home solution to soothe facial itching and dryness? There are several remedies that people swear by. Many individuals tout the benefits of coconut oil, which can be gently massaged into the scalp to alleviate dry and flaky skin. Menthol, another soothing essential oil, is known to calm itchiness. If your skin is red and itchy, try cooling it down with a cold, damp cloth or an ice pack for 5 to 10 minutes. Just remember to use a thin, soft towel as a barrier between the ice pack and your skin to avoid any discomfort.

Additionally, there are other evidence-backed home remedies that you can try. One such remedy involves creating a paste with colloidal oatmeal and water. This mixture forms a protective barrier, locking in moisture and reducing dryness, itching intensity, roughness, and scaling.

Apple cider vinegar is another popular option. Known for its disinfecting and antiseptic properties, it contains acetic acid. Dilute it with water at a 1:1 ratio and apply it to the affected area.