Dry skin can be uncomfortable, itchy, and flaky, especially during the colder months. A consistent nighttime skincare routine is crucial for replenishing moisture and repairing damage while you sleep.
Here’s a guide to help you achieve a smooth, hydrated complexion.
Causes of dry skin
- Environmental factors: cold weather, low humidity, and dry indoor air can all contribute to dry skin.
- Hot showers and baths: Hot water can strip away your skin’s natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight.
- Harsh soaps and detergents: These products can contain harsh chemicals that irritate and dry out the skin.
- Over-exfoliation: Exfoliating too often can remove too much of the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness.
- Underlying medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and diabetes, can cause dry skin.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause dry skin as a side effect.
Symptoms of dry skin
Skin that feels tight and uncomfortable |
Flaky, rough, or scaly skin |
Itching |
Cracked skin |
Redness |
increased sensitivity |
Ashy appearance on brown and black skin |
Night skincare Routine for dry skin
Step 1 – Gentle Cleanse with double cleansing method
Start by removing makeup and sunscreen with a gentle cleansing balm or oil. This helps dissolve impurities without stripping away natural oils. Follow with a hydrating cleanser to remove any remaining residue and cleanse the skin deeply.
Avoid harsh cleansers that strip away natural oils. Opt for gentle micellar water, cleansing balms, or creams.
Step 2 – Exfoliate Wisely (Optional)
Once or twice a week, use a gentle chemical exfoliant with lactic or glycolic acid. This removes dead skin cells, revealing a brighter and smoother complexion. Harsh scrubs should be avoided, as they can irritate dry skin.
Regularly exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and allow better absorption of moisturisers.
Step 3 – Apply toner
Choose a hydrating toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or rosewater to add moisture and balance the skin’s pH.
Step 4 -Hydrating Serum
Choose a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or glycerin. These ingredients attract and retain moisture, leaving your skin feeling plump and supple.
Step 5 -Moisturise
Lock in all the goodness with a rich, creamy moisturizer. Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil. Apply a generous amount to your face and neck, focusing on dry areas.
Step 6 -Facial Oil (Optional)
For an extra boost of hydration, seal in your skincare with a facial oil. Choose an oil rich in essential fatty acids, such as argan oil, rosehip oil, or squalane.
Step 7-Apply a sleeping mask
Once a week, pamper your skin with a hydrating sleeping mask. This intensive treatment delivers deep nourishment and leaves your skin feeling soft and refreshed in the morning.
Tips: Don’t neglect the neck and décolletage areas! They need love and attention too.
Best Products for Dry Skin
- Cleansers: Episoft Cleansing Lotion for Sensitive and Dry Skin, Cetaphil Face Wash Gentle Skin Cleanser for Dry to Normal skin
- Exfoliators: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, The Ordinary Lactic Acid 5% + HA
- Serums: Minimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + PGA Serum for Intense Hydration, L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Lightweight Face Serum For Hydrated, Youthful Skin
- Moisturisers: CeraVe Moisturising Cream, Cetaphil Moisturising Cream
- Facial oils: jojoba oil, rosehip oil, and argan oil
Dermatologist-recommended Routine for Dry, Sensitive Skin
1. Cleanse with micellar water or a gentle cream cleanser.
2. Exfoliate with a lactic acid serum once a week.
3. Apply a hyaluronic acid serum.
4. Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturiser.
5. Consider adding a few drops of facial oil for extra hydration.
Bonus Tips:
• Use lukewarm water when cleansing.
• Rather than rubbing your skin dry, pat it dry.
• Apply moisturiser to damp skin for better absorption.
• Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and irritation.
• Use a humidifier to increase the air’s moisture content.
• Avoid harsh soaps and detergents.
• Apply sunscreen on a daily basis, even on cloudy days.
• Consume a healthy, balanced diet and plenty of water and Consult a dermatologist for personalised advice.
By following this nighttime skincare routine, you can give your dry skin the TLC it deserves and wake up to a radiant, healthy-looking complexion.
Conclusion
Dry skin can be a pesky problem, but don’t worry, dry skin warriors! Consistency is key! By following a dedicated nighttime skincare routine and incorporating the right products, you can achieve healthy, hydrated, and glowing skin, even with dry skin.
Also Read:
How to Get Rid of Peeling Skin
Resouces:
- https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/dermatologists-tips-relieve-dry-skin
- https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/what-to-do-about-dry-skin
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