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Health And Beauty Tips
Dry Skin
 Most
of us experience dry skin at some point in our life. Although
some of us are born with a tendency to dryness, it's possible to
experience a temporary bout due to a change in the weather,
pregnancy, stress or ill-health. Simply sitting in an overheated
environment can leave skin sapped of moisture. The best way to
cope is with gentle, nourishing products that will leave skin
feeling hydrated and comfortable again.
What is dry skin?
Technically, dry skin is a condition caused by a lack of
moisture in the top layer of skin, the stratum corneum, combined
with a breakdown of the protective barrier of oils and keratin
in the deeper epidermis. When the moisture-content level falls
below five per cent, the skin becomes dehydrated and tight. Dry
skin is normally fair and sensitive with no open pores and a
dullish appearance. It may develop wrinkles and lines at an
early age if not kept supple, especially around the mouth and
eyes.
How you know if you have dry skin
The most telling signs of dry skin are a feeling of
tightness 10 to 15 minutes after washing, having dull or rough,
red, flaky or scaly skin, having fine lines, and there being no
visible shine, even by the end of the day. The skin can look
thin and papery and is also prone to broken veins.
What causes dry skin?
Dry skin is caused by a low level of sebum production. It is
exacerbated by wind, extremes of temperature and
air-conditioning. As we age, the condition often worsens because
sebum production naturally slows down and the skin becomes
thinner (which allows moisture to escape more easily). Look at
your diet, too. A lack of essential fatty acids (EFAs) can cause
skin to become papery and dry. If you have a hot bath and the
skin on your body still feels dry after an application of body
lotion, you might not have enough EFAs in your diet.
Balance skin from within
Eating a balanced diet and, if necessary, taking appropriate
supplements, is a vital part of creating a healthy complexion.
Bear in mind that it takes a good three weeks for newly formed
cells to reach the skin's surface, so it takes time for lasting
results to show. Vitamins A, C and E, selenium and zinc are
essential antioxidants that help to enhance collagen repair and
generally promote skin healing. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) can
also have a positive effect on skin as they form a barrier that
prevents moisture loss that helps combat dryness, fine lines and
wrinkles.
What to avoid if you have dry skin
Dry skin needs ultra-gentle care. Treat it well and it won't
give you cause for concern. Avoid:
Harsh cleansing Washcloths, hot water, dry saunas and skincare
products containing soap can dry and irritate the skin.
Extreme weather The wind and sun can both lead to dryness and
even chapping. Indoors, be wary of air-conditioning and
overheating.
Granular exfoliants Irregularly shaped grains (made from peach
stones or sand) are too rough and can cause broken blood
vessels.
Astringent toners Alcohol tends to overstrip the skin.
Clay masks Clay and mud products soak up oil and leave skin
drier.
The best skincare routine for dry skin
Although dry skin can become temporarily oilier in hot
weather (just switch your moisturiser to a slightly lighter
one), it will usually benefit from the following care:
Use a gentle lotion or cream cleanser that can be rinsed or
tissued off. Foaming gel cleansers are too drying.
If you want to use a toner, choose an extremely gentle one (such
as rosewater).
Look for a moisturising lotion or cream containing hyaluronic
acid (which helps your regular moisturiser attract more moisture
into your skin), jojoba oil or shea butter. Apply it to damp
skin for better absorption, then gently rub it in for increased
penetration.
If you have dry skin, only use scrubs made with smooth,
synthetic grains to buff away dead skin cells. If you prefer
chemical exfoliators, look for beta hydroxy acid (BHA) products,
as they are gentler than alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) products.
Exfoliate no more than twice a week.
Rich, nourishing night creams can work overnight to quench
parched skin.
As an occasional treat, try a moisturising mask that doesn't set
on the skin. Look for nourishing ingredients such as vitamin E
or collagen.
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