Getting Started, know your skin type
Part 4 of my skincare tips is covering dry skin. It has been a few weeks now since my last blog in this series, along with wedding season preparation and then Corona Virus putting the world on hold, life go a little in the way. I’m now back on it today though carrying on with my bridal skincare tips series and I will follow on from the last blog regarding skin type and getting to know your own. So, I first bring you……dry skin. The bane of a lot of peoples lives, so here are a few tips to help figure out which bracket you fall into and how to treat it.
Dry skin is caused by an under production of natural oil (sebum). There is a common misconception that drinking more water can help with dry skin, but this isn’t the case at all. DRY or DEHYDRATED skin, yes there is a difference! Dry skin is a skin TYPE where Dehydrated skin is a CONDITION.
How can you tell the difference between the two?
Characteristics of dry skin~
- Dull, especially on the cheeks and around the eyes.
- Lacks elasticity and can be flaky
- Visible lines and wrinkles
- Small pores
- Tightness and itching
- Common in older women
- Maybe harder to apply makeup
Potential causes of dry skin can be weather condition, colder air and lower humidity levels affect the skin. Central heating can also be a big factor through the winter months as can air conditioning throughout the summer. Another factor is products. Harsh detergents and chemicals can cause dry skin conditions. This can eventually lead to other problems like sensitivity, which I will cover in the next post.
Characteristics of dehydrated skin~
- Itchiness
- Dullness
- Darker circles under the eye
- Sunken eyes
- Shadows around the face (especially under the eyes and around the nose)
- Increased incidence or appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Dehydrated skin does not have enough water. Dehydration is usually caused by many external factors, but the most common are, the weather, environment, diet and caffeine consumption, all of which can result in diminished water content within the skin.
How should I look after dry skin?
Get your dry skin in great condition with my go-to skincare tips below.
Product and treatments for dry skin~
- Avoid very hot bathing. Instead opt for a warm water wash. Try using moisture rich cleansers and avoid soap-based products.
- Use a gentle toner to soothe the skin after cleansing, like a toning milk.
- Hydrate the skin with a rich, oil-based moisturiser, try adding a little facial oil direct to the skin before moisturiser for an extra hydra boost.
- Exfoliate regularly (once to twice a week) with a hydrating facial scrub or use your usual cleanser with a muslin square cloth to help slough off the dry, flaky areas.
Products and treatments for dehydrated skin~
- Use a gentle cleanser. Avoid drying face wipes at ALL costs (this is for EVERY skin!) instead opt for a cleanser with calming and moisturising properties.
- Make use of hydrating serums/essences or facial oils that will help boost moisture content in the skin without overloading it. Facial oils and serums also penetrate deeper into the dermis so effectively moisturise from the inside, out.
- Try a richer formula overnight moisturiser to really hydrate the skin whilst you sleep.
- Invest in a good moisturising facial or sheet mask. This will aid in boosting hydration and will help you relax too.
Follow all my advice for this skin type and you’ll be well on the way to great looking, super smooth and hydrated skin, you’re face and your makeup look will love you for it!
My next will be along soon, following on with my bridal skincare tips covering sensitive skin, ageing skin and progress on to the my top tips in skincare.
You can also find information about my fantastic relaxing facial treatments here
