Dry skin on the face: How to restore moisture
Many people find that their skin dries out when winter's cold and crisp air arrives. Others have a more persistent tendency towards dry skin, which can be due to genetics, age and skin condition.
But how do you get rid of the uncomfortable feeling of a rough and tight surface? A moisturising skincare routine can help. Here, we guide you through restoring moisture.
What defines dry skin?
Dry skin is skin whose moisture level is out of balance. Dry skin produces less sebum and oil, which can weaken the skin barrier. It can appear as a dull and lacklustre surface or even as cracks, flakes and shedding skin.
If you have a dry skin type, you probably know the feeling of tight skin with a rough and uneven surface. Dry skin is also often more sensitive, which can result in redness, eczema and itching.
WORTH KNOWING
There is a difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin. Dehydrated skin benefits from ingredients that bind moisture, such as hyaluronic acid, while dry skin benefits from both moisturising ingredients and natural oils.
Read more about how to best protect your sensitive skin here
Causes of dry skin on the face
Your environment has a major impact on whether your skin can retain its moisture or dries out. Cold weather, low humidity, wind and the sun's rays can all dry out the skin.
Your age and health also play a role in your skin's ability to maintain its moisture balance. Your skin produces less oil with age, and over time its natural lipid layer can also weaken, making the barrier less effective at retaining moisture.
Another common cause is using skincare products that are too harsh for your skin type. These can include harsh facial cleansers or frequent exfoliation. Certifications such as AllergyCertified and Dermatologically tested can help you choose products that are gentle on the skin.
4 expert tips for combating dry skin
-
Layer your moisture: Dry skin benefits from plenty of moisture. Be generous with moisturising and nourishing products, and try applying moisture in layers so your skin can really soak it up. Start with a Moisturizing mask and finish with a Face oil.
-
Give your skin a break: Although it is good to care for your skin with products, make sure not to use overly harsh formulas or cleanse your skin more than 1-2 times a day. Dry skin is often more sensitive and needs a break and moisture to regain its balance.
-
Follow the seasons: Pay attention to your skin's changing needs. Add extra moisture in winter, and always remember plenty of sunscreen with high SPF in summer - and preferably throughout the rest of the year.
Has your skin become dry after a day in the sun? Use our Fragrance-free aftersun - Moisture from within: Besides moisturising products that care for your skin from the outside, you can also add moisture through your diet. Eat plenty of healthy fats and vitamins, and make sure to drink lots of water.
How to best care for dry skin on your face
Fortunately, there are several ways to bring glow, moisture and life back to dry skin. Choose products that contain moisturisers such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, natural plant oils and occlusives such as shea butter, which prevent moisture loss.
-
Cleanser: When you use a cleanser in your skincare routine, you risk leaving your skin dry and delicate. If you already struggle with dry skin on your face, make sure to choose a mild cleanser - and avoid products containing alcohol or sulfates, as they can dry out your skin further. Try our Cleansing balm, which soothes and nourishes your skin without drying it out.
-
Cream: A face cream is often moisturising in itself, but you can give your dry skin a little extra care by choosing a cream with nourishing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and natural oils. Also choose a moisturising sunscreen - so you are always protected from the sun's UV rays while keeping your body moisturised.
Read also: Which cream is best for dry skin? -
Serum and oil: Both face oil and serums can work wonders for dry skin. A nourishing face oil gives your skin intensive moisture, and a serum helps find moisture in the upper layers of the skin.
-
Makeup: To create a moisturised base for your makeup, you can use a Primer, which retains moisture in your skin and smooths fine lines. If you want a more moisturising alternative to a classic foundation, see our Tinted Day Cream.
Read also: How to give your skin the most moisture and care
Get rid of dry skin overnight
At ECOOKING, we develop effective products that can care for your skin overnight and let you wake up with thoroughly moisturised, supple and glowing skin the next morning.
Night-time is an ideal time to give your skin a generous dose of moisture, so it can soak it up undisturbed while you sleep. Always make sure to apply a good Night cream, which can moisturise your skin throughout the night. Also try our Moisturizing mask, which boosts and strengthens your skin with natural pumpkin seed extract, Aloe Vera and hyaluronic acid. With these products, both your body and your skin can recover and get ready for the next morning.
See also our 24 Hour Cream, which is developed to keep your skin moisturised through all the day's challenges.
Special moisture and care for vulnerable areas
The skin around the eyes is particularly delicate, and it is also an area that is often forgotten. Our Energizing Eye Cream contains active ingredients such as niacinamide and ceramide, which both moisturise and firm, so the delicate skin around your eyes does not dry out.
The skin on your lips is also particularly thin and sensitive, especially to sunlight and cold. Treat your lips to a rich Lip Balm, which treats dryness and prevents painful cracks.
Are there areas on your face or body that need extra moisture and care? Our Multi Balm is easy to carry in your bag, so you can always keep dry lips, cheeks, elbows and hands at bay.
Read also: How to get healthy and beautiful skin with a daily routine