5 Skincare Mistakes to Avoid if You Have Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, then you know it can sometimes look dull and be rough, flaky, and uncomfortable. That’s why it’s super important to make sure you avoid these mistakes that can make dry skin even worse.
Dry Skin Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Moisturizer
Your skin barrier consists of skin cells that are bound together by lipids (cholesterol, fatty acids, & ceramides). That’s why it’s important to look for moisturizers that contain these lipids as well as other nourishing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, squalane, peptides, shea butter, cocoa butter, and sunflower seed oil.
One moisturizer we love for dry skin is Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Face Cream ($50). It contains a triple-lipid complex, a peptide blend, shea butter, and other nourishing ingredients.
Dry Skin Mistake #2: Replacing Moisturizer with Oils
Your skincare routine needs to contain a blend of hydrating and moisturizing products. But most skincare oils don’t provide the hydrating part. Oils can condition the skin and help it retain water content, but they can’t add that water content. It’s totally fine to use them, but they shouldn’t be the only type of product in your routine.
Dry Skin Mistake #3: Not Exfoliating Correctly
Balance is key when it comes to dry skin. You need to exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and other debris that can make your skin look dull or prevent your skincare product from penetrating the skin. BUT you don’t want to overdo it and damage your skin barrier. That’s why it’s a good idea to look for gentle exfoliants like polyhydroxy acid or azelaic acid.
NATURIUM Tranexamic Topical Acid 5% ($20) and NATURIUM Azelaic Acid Emulsion 10% ($22) are great exfoliators to start with. They’re gentle enough to use on a regular basis!
Dry Skin Mistake #4: Cleansing with Hot Water
Cleansing with hot water can actually make your dry skin even worse. It can cause the water in your skin to evaporate quickly and also can strip the natural oils from your skin.
Dry Skin Mistake #5: Applying Moisturizer to Your Skin When It’s Dry
The ideal time to do your skincare routine is right after you cleanse. You want to apply your toners, serums, and moisturizers to your skin while it’s damp (with the exception of a few types of products). This will help lock that moisture into your skin.
Watch this video to see what other skincare mistakes to avoid if you have dry skin!
