If you’ve got dry skin, finding the perfect skincare routine can feel like a challenge, But the good news? The ideal routine for dry skin is simple, and we’re breaking it down step-by-step to keep your skin hydrated and glowing, We asked a few dermatologists to share their top tips, from ingredients to look for to common mistakes to avoid. So, if you’re ready to pamper your skin, let’s get into it!
In This Article
- What Is Dry Skin?
- Key Ingredients for Dry Skin
- Morning Skincare Routine
- Nighttime Skincare Routine
- Tips for Managing Dry SkinFinal Thoughts
- Final Thoughts
What Is Dry Skin?
“Dry skin happens when your skin can’t retain moisture properly,” says dermatologists. “It creates tiny cracks in the outer layer, which affects its ability to protect itself and stay hydrated.”
If you struggle with dry skin, prepping your face in the morning is especially important to get it ready for the day ahead.
Key Ingredients for Dry Skin
When looking for the best moisturizer for dry skin, aim for a combination of three key ingredients: emollients, humectants, and occlusives. Here’s what they do:
- Emollients: These soften the skin barrier and add moisture, Ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and petrolatum are great examples.
- Humectants: These attract water from the air or deeper layers of your skin, Popular humectants include hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Occlusives: These lock moisture into the skin by forming a barrier, Argan oil, beeswax, and jojoba oil are common occlusives.
Morning Skincare Routine
Step 1: Non-Foaming Cleanser
The first step to a hydrated face is cleansing, But don’t just use any cleanser—look for a gentle, non-foaming formula. “A non-foaming cleanser will clean without stripping your skin’s outer layer of moisture,” says a dermatologist. It’s essential to use one that’s hydrating.
Step 2: Vitamin C Serum
After cleansing, give your skin a moisture boost with a vitamin C serum. “Vitamin C brightens the skin and protects it from environmental damage,” says Experts. For an extra hydration kick, layer some hyaluronic acid serum on top to lock in moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Step 3: Moisturizer
Even if your sunscreen has moisturizing ingredients, it’s a good idea to apply a separate moisturizer before your SPF. Experts suggest looking for light moisturizers with softening ingredients like glycerin. Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel is a top pick, packed with hyaluronic acid to pull in water and hydrate your skin.
Step 4: SPF
Sunscreen is crucial for all skin types, and dry skin is no exception, UV rays can cause premature aging and worsen dryness, so use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days, Opt for a moisturizer with built-in sunscreen to keep your skin protected and hydrated all day long.
Nighttime Skincare Routine
Step 1: Cleansing Balm to Remove Makeup and SPF
Start your nighttime routine by using a cleansing balm or micellar water to remove any makeup or sunscreen from the day, This helps prep your skin for the next steps.
Step 2: Hydrating Cleanser
Follow up with a hydrating cleanser to ensure your skin stays moisturized overnight, “If you’re extremely dry, skip retinoids for the time being and stick to hydrating serums,” recommends Expert. Hyaluronic acid is a great option for boosting moisture.
Step 3: Targeted Treatments
If you’re using active ingredients like retinol, apply them right after cleansing. Just remember, if you’ve used a retinol product, wait at least 20 minutes after cleansing before applying it to avoid irritation, “Dry skin needs time to adjust to retinol,” says dermatologists, For a gentler approach, try using it once or twice a week at first.
Step 4: Hydrating Serum
A hydrating serum is a great addition to your routine, especially if your skin is chronically dry, “Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin for the best results,” says Experts, It helps lock in hydration and supports your skin’s barrier.
Step 5: Moisturizer
Never skip moisturizer, especially at night, “A heavier cream will help lock in moisture and give your skin a deep hydration boost,” says Hartman. Look for a thicker cream rather than a lotion to provide lasting hydration overnight.
Step 6 (Optional): Face Oil
If your skin is feeling extra dry, consider adding a face oil as the last step in your routine, This helps lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated throughout the night. But skip this step if you have acne-prone skin, as oils can sometimes clog pores.
Tips for Managing Dry Skin
- Avoid Hot Water: Hot showers can strip your skin of its natural oils, making dryness worse, Use warm water instead and apply hydrating products while your skin is still damp.
- Apply Moisturizer While Damp: To lock in moisture, apply your moisturizer when your skin is still slightly damp.
- Use a Sheet Mask Once a Week: Hydrating sheet masks, like the 111 Skin Cryo De-Puffing Mask, are a great way to give your skin an extra moisture boost.
- Be Careful With Retinol: If you’re using retinol, start slow, Use it just once or twice a week at first to avoid irritating your skin. Always moisturize before and after to keep your skin hydrated.
- Avoid Alcohol-Based Products: Alcohol can dry out your skin, so steer clear of products containing alcohol or astringents like witch hazel.
Ammore Pro Tip
Maximize Hydration: For an added hydration boost, always apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp. This simple step helps lock in moisture more effectively, keeping your skin soft and supple throughout the day or night. Don’t forget, that a thicker cream at night works wonders to provide long-lasting moisture while your skin is in repair mode!
Final Thoughts
Taking care of dry skin doesn’t have to be complicated. By sticking to a simple routine and using the right ingredients, your skin can stay hydrated and glowing all day and night. Just remember to hydrate, protect, and listen to your skin’s needs, and you’ll be well on your way to a glowing complexion.
