I spent years trying to perfect the ultimate skincare routine for dry skin.
Rewind to 2008. I’m 16, stood at the bathroom mirror wondering how I can stop my face to stop flaking before school. With my cheeks feeling tight and sensitive, a stubborn rough patch that had seemed to set up camp on my chin, and that dreaded ‘squeaky clean’ feeling if I dared take a morning shower, it’s all too clear that I was dealing with the perils of a dry skin type.
Aesthetic doctor Dr David Jack reveals that dry skin is the number one issue he sees in his clinic. “Dry skin can be genetic, environmental or entirely self-inflicted – your skin barrier can only take so much over-exfoliation before it stages a rebellion!” he says. “Hot showers, harsh cleansers and not using emollient-rich moisturisers for dry skin tend to make matters worse. Certain medical conditions and medications can also leave the skin feeling particularly dry.”
Although my teenage self was sure I was doomed to face the rest of my life shedding like a snake, I’m pleased to report that now I’m in my early thirties, my skincare routine is under control. I’m not surviving, I’m thriving.
With the help of a dedicated skincare routine for dry skin, the right formulas and a wealth of expert advice, you can say goodbye to dry. Luckily, this article is just that. Not sure if you have dry or dehydrated skin? We’ve got a guide for that, too.
What causes dry skin?
Contrary to popular belief, there are not that many reasons for dry skin. Rather, Jacqueline Yong, skin health specialist and the founder of Jacqueline Organic, explains that dry skin is a natural skin type, meaning it’s something you’re born with.
“It occurs when the skin lacks moisture and natural oils, which are essential for maintaining a healthy, hydrated complexion. People with dry skin often have smaller sebaceous glands too, leading to less oil production and a thinner skin barrier,” she says.
Aesthetic doctor Dr David Jack reveals that ageing also plays a role. “From our mid twenties, ceramide and natural oil production start to decline, meaning the skin’s lipid barrier becomes less efficient at holding water, causing skin to become more dry.”
But don’t despair. “There are plenty of ways to help manage dry skin, such as using hydrating products, adopting a gentle skincare routine, and creating a healthy environment that supports moisture retention,” Jacqueline advises.
What routine is best for dry skin?
What you’ve been waiting for: the dry skin club’s ultimate skincare routine, from start to finish…
Step 1: Cleanse (and double cleanse in the evening)
Jacqueline advises to use a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils in the morning. “Look for a cream or milk-based cleanser that’s rich in emollients like glycerin, squalane, or ceramides,” she says.
In the evening, double cleanse. “Start with a oil-based cleansing option to remove daily impurities, makeup and sunscreen, like the La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil, then follow with a cream cleanser,” says Dr Sina.
“The first cleanse with an oil-based cleanser helps break down makeup and sunscreen without disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier. The second cleanse with a cream cleanser hydrates and nourishes, leaving the skin clean yet soft and moisturised,” explains Jacqueline.
Step 2: Apply a toner or essence
You may be tempted to skip this step, but dry skin will benefit from a toner or essence, as it adds an extra layer of hydration after cleansing. Unlike traditional toners of yore that used to strip the skin, today’s formulas are packed with soothing, hydrating ingredients.
“Use an alcohol-free, hydrating toner that helps replenish moisture and restore the skin’s pH balance. Look for ingredients like rose water, aloe vera, or hyaluronic acid,” Jacqueline advises.
A toner or essence also prepares the skin to better absorb subsequent products, instantly alleviates any feelings of tightness or roughness, and leaves your skin feeling refreshed and more comfortable.
Step 3: Add a hydrating serum
Jacqueline recommends looking for a B5 serum or a hyaluronic acid serum, as both ingredients are humectants, which attract moisture to the skin. We’ve got more intel on the best hydrating serums here.
“They help to soothe irritation, support the skin’s healing process, and also improve its ability to retain moisture. B5 is an excellent ingredient for dry skin, because it works to keep the skin hydrated while strengthening the skin’s natural barrier, preventing further water loss,” she says.
Other ingredients you can look for? “Glycerin is also water-binding, and you could look for ceramides, peptides, or niacinamide to repair and reinforce,” says Dr Vincent.
Step 4: Follow with a rich moisturiser
Dr Sina recommends applying a rich moisturiser next, ideally one formulated with powerhouse ingredients like squalane, ceramides or glycerin. These components play a huge role in keeping the skin barrier strong and protected, which is important as it a) acts as the first line of defence against environmental aggressors like dust and pollution, and b) means you’re reducing the risk of dryness, irritation and sensitivity.
