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Dry Skin: The Ultimate Guide & Skin Care Routine

A NOURISHING SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR DRY SKIN | yearnskin.co.za

To ward off irritation, scaly patches and other issues, it is essential to have a good skincare routine for dry skin. While a proper routine is important for all skin types, dry skin often needs a little extra TLC. Although your skin needs added nourishment, you may not realise that layering on heavy products can end up causing more harm than good. A simple routine that works will do far more good than an overly complicated routine that doesn’t give your skin what it needs. 

What is the best skincare routine for dry skin? And, more importantly, what can you do each day to moisturise, soothe and improve skin texture? 

BEST SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR DRY SKIN

Building a skincare routine for dry skin means knowing what to do (and what not to do). Here are some tips to keep in mind to keep your skin looking and feeling good. 

KEEP IT SIMPLE

The best routine is a simple routine - cleanser, toner (optional), serum and moisturiser. 

Speaking to Byrdie, dermatologist Lian Mack, MD says that it is essential to choose the right cleanser. "Preparing your skin to face the day when it has a tendency to be dry should involve using a gentle, non-foaming cleanser.” 

Healthline suggests cleansing once a day if you have dry acne-prone skin. If you do not have breakouts, cleanse twice daily and look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which is a humectant that increases hydration. For toning, Healthline suggests alcohol-free toners with active ingredients that restore your skin’s pH levels. If your skin is very dry, you can skip toning altogether. It’s also best to skip exfoliating unless you’re using a chemical exfoliant that is safe to use on dry skin. 

After cleansing, use a serum high in ingredients that improve hydration. These add an extra layer of protection against environmental damage, targeting inflammation and providing many other benefits. 

Finish off with a moisturiser - in the daytime, one with a built-in sunscreen - in the night, one that adds moisture as you sleep. Style Craze recommends applying moisturiser while your skin is damp (see our article on wet skincare to see why this is so effective).

AVOID HEAVY PRODUCTS

According to Healthline, heavy creams and products are not ideal as these do not absorb into the skin. Skip the heavy oil-based lotions and moisturisers and instead go for products that are designed to penetrate into the skin’s outer layers. 

Speaking to Byrdie, dermatologist Joshua Zeichner says, "look for light moisturizers that contain ingredients that can soften rough cells, pull in hydration, and form a protective seal over the surface of the skin. Skin oil and skin hydration are two separate issues, and you can actually be way oily in the summer but also lacking hydration.”

Lighter products will prevent products from sitting on top of your skin without absorbing. It will also prevent breakouts and clogged pores, which can cause even more issues such as inflammation, making your skin even drier. 

 Yearn Skin 3-STEP ROUTINE for dry skin: THAT GLOW THOUGH KIT





STEP 1:



STEP 2: 





STEP 3: 

 
 

Our top product picks for those with dry skin include Active Brightening Facial Oil or Cream and Glow Turmeric Mask.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/skin-care-routine-for-dry-skin

https://www.byrdie.com/dry-skincare-routine

https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/daily-routine-for-dry-skin/

FAQs and Answers

1. What is the best skincare routine for dry skin?
A simple routine works best for dry skin: start with a gentle cleanser, follow with an optional toner, apply a hydrating serum, and finish with a moisturiser. Using a moisturiser with SPF during the day and a hydrating cream at night will help maintain skin moisture.

2. Should people with dry skin use a toner?
Toners can be beneficial but are not essential for dry skin. If used, opt for an alcohol-free toner with active ingredients that restore the skin’s pH levels. Extremely dry skin may benefit from skipping toner altogether.

3. How often should I cleanse if I have dry skin?
If you have dry, acne-prone skin, cleansing once a day is ideal. Otherwise, cleansing twice daily with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid is recommended.

4. Why should heavy skincare products be avoided for dry skin?
Heavy creams and oil-based products do not absorb well into dry skin and can cause clogged pores and breakouts. Instead, use lightweight moisturisers that soften rough skin cells, pull in hydration, and create a protective seal.

5. What ingredients should I look for in skincare products for dry skin?
Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides help improve hydration. Avoid alcohol-based products and harsh exfoliants, as they can further dry out the skin.

6. How should moisturiser be applied to dry skin for maximum hydration?
Applying moisturiser while the skin is still damp helps lock in hydration. This method ensures better absorption and longer-lasting moisture.

7. Can exfoliation be part of a dry skin routine?
Exfoliation should be done cautiously. Physical scrubs may be too harsh, but chemical exfoliants that are safe for dry skin can help remove dead skin cells without stripping moisture.

8. What are the best Yearn Skin products for dry skin?
Yearn Skin’s top product picks for dry skin include the Active Brightening Facial Oil or Cream and the Glow Turmeric Mask, which provide hydration and nourishment.