Dry skin. Yep, two little words that are very familiar to many of us.

And around this time of year it’s even more familiar as winter is often the season when dry skin is most prevalent.

So, what are the main causes and what can you do to combat it?

These are the very questions we are discussing in this article. So, read on to find out all about the causes of dry skin, what you can do to prevent them, and how you can address any flare ups.

Dry Skin: What Causes It And How Can You Fix It?

What Causes Dry Skin?

There are a bunch of things that can cause dry skin. Here are some of the main culprits:

1. Weather: Exposure to cold, dry air or harsh winds can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness. This is particularly true in winter when windy conditions increase.
2. Hot showers and baths: Prolonged exposure to hot water, especially during showers or baths, can wash away the skin's natural oils, leaving it dry and dehydrated. So, if you are a hot bath lover, it’s good to be mindful of this fact!
3. Environmental factors: Things like indoor heating, air conditioning, or exposure to central heating systems can reduce the moisture content in the air, contributing to dry skin.
4. Harsh skincare products: Certain facial cleansers, soaps, or toners contain harsh chemicals or fragrances that can strip the skin's natural oils and disrupt its moisture barrier, leading to dryness.
5. Overwashing: Washing your face excessively or using harsh exfoliators too frequently can disrupt the skin's moisture balance. Again, this will result in dryness.
6. Getting older: As we get older, our skin tends to produce less of the good stuff - collagen, natural oils, and other things that keep our skin hydrated. Dry skin can often be the end result.
7. Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as those occurring during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect the skin's moisture balance. Sometimes this can create overly oily or dry skin.
8. Medical conditions: Some underlying health conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or thyroid disorders, can cause dry skin as a symptom.
9. Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat acne or allergies, can have drying effects on the skin.

How Can You Prevent Dry Skin?

Now that we know what can cause dry skin, it’s time to explore what we can do to prevent dry skin from occurring in the first place:

1. Moisturise regularly: The best thing you can do to combat dry skin is to use a moisturiser specifically formulated for your face. Look for hydrating products which help to lock in moisture and nourish the skin. Then, make sure you apply your moisturiser twice a day, especially after cleansing.
2. Protect your skin from the elements: If you are venturing outside into the wild weather, wear a scarf, hat, or whatever you have to shield your face from cold winds and low temperatures. This can help prevent moisture loss and protect your skin barrier.
3. Use a humidifier: You might choose to invest in a humidifier to add moisture to your indoor air. Central heating systems can make the air dry, so using a humidifier can help maintain a more balanced environment and prevent excessive drying of the skin.
4. Shorten shower time and adjust water temperature: As we just learnt, long, hot showers or baths can strip the skin of its natural oils. So, the easy solution is to reduce the amount of time you are spending in the hot water (even though it feels particularly delicious in winter!) Instead, opt for shorter showers with lukewarm water to prevent excessive drying.
5. Choose gentle skincare products: So, we know that some skincare can actually dry your skin out. You need to opt for hydrating and nourishing products that won't strip your skin's natural oils. Also, don’t use harsh exfoliators to avoid over-exfoliation of your skin.
6. Hydrate from within: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. Proper hydration helps maintain the skin's moisture levels.
7. Protect your lips: Use a moisturising lip balm to prevent dry and chapped lips. Apply it regularly, especially before going outside.
8. Wear sunscreen: This might seem off, but even in winter, UV rays can still harm the skin. In summer it is essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun's damaging effects.
9. Avoid harsh, drying ingredients: Be mindful of skincare products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or other harsh chemicals. These can further dry out your skin, so it's best to choose products that are gentle and hydrating instead. Hint: that’s what our Summer + Bloom products do!
10. Eat a balanced diet: What you put into your body can impact how your skin feels. Include foods rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, such as avocados, nuts, fish, fruits, and vegetables. A well-balanced diet can help support your skin's health and hydration.

Remember, everyone's skin is unique, so it's essential to listen to your skin's needs and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. If you have persistent dryness or skin concerns, it could be time to have a chat with a dermatologist.

How To Remedy Dry Skin

The best way to remedy dry skin is to nail your skincare routine. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Cleanse: Cleansing helps to remove impurities and the stresses of the day. But some cleansers contain harsh chemicals that can strip your skin’s natural defences. So, you need to make sure you choose a gentle and nourishing cleanser like Cleanse Me.
2. Moisturise: After you have cleansed your face, it is important to replace the moisture that your skin has lost during the day. A hydrating moisturiser will do that. We can recommend Day Dew for an everyday option or Bounce Back for more concentrated hydration.
3. Treat Your Skin: Your skin deals with a lot throughout the week, so it is important to take the time to nourish and hydrate it regularly. A rejuvenating sheet mask can be a fantastic way to do that. Our Superbloom hydrating and plumping mask is the perfect treat for dry skin.

Dry skin doesn’t have to be a problem. By taking steps to prevent it and having a range of hydrating and nourishing skincare products on hand, you can have ultra-glowy summer skin all winter long!

Shop our nourishing range now.