5 MISTAKES CAUSING DRY SKIN.
We were conditioned to believe that the more you scrub, the cleaner, and therefore healthier your skin will become. Oh, and of course bombarding your skin with coconut scented body washes was the only way to feel beautiful.
How times have changed...
Did you know that these, along with many others, could be the very reasons as to why you’re experiencing dry, cracked and flaky skin?
It is so important to recognise the factors contributing towards your skin health, and the ways in which you can make changes to achieve that dewy, hydrated canvas we are all longing for.
1. HARSH SOAP
Frequent application of harsh soaps can have a significant impact on dry skin. Soap is an emulsifier and therefore strips oil and moisture from the skin. The more regularly soap is used, the larger the amount of oil is removed, ultimately leading to drier skin.
Natural soap used less frequently will assist your skin in retaining moisture and maintain higher levels of hydration.
2. FRAGRANCE
"Whether natural or synthetic, fragrances can be sensitizers to the skin. Some, if used in higher doses, can cause rashes and irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin." ... "Fragrance can and does sometimes dry out your skin," says Dr. Nakhla.
Using fragrance-free skincare products will help to protect your skin from potential irritants and decrease the chance of dryness.
3. NO OR INCORRECT EXFOLIATION
To help achieve a healthy dewy complexion, skin exfoliation is essential to slough away the buildup of dead skin cells from the body. This buildup can result in the blockage of hydrating products from working effectively, as they are unable to break through the barrier and revitalise the skin.
- The My Glow 2 silk exfoliating glove will enable you to effortlessly attain the best exfoliation results possible, due to its unique fabric and weave.
It is also vital to consider how often you are exfoliating as over-exfoliation can lead to dryness and dehydration. It is recommended to do so 1-2 times per week, to ensure the dead skin cells are erased but the moisture is not sapped from the skin.
4. HOT SHOWERS OR BATHS
While sinking into a hot steamy tub can be extremely relaxing, it is important to consider the temperature for the sake of your skin.
Unfortunately, the hotter the water temperature, the more moisture and oil is stripped from the skin. The longer you are in the bath or shower, the more this process is prolonged. Taking a shorter amount of time and switching to a lukewarm temperature will help to protect your skin from cracks and dryness.
5. LACK OF SKINCARE DURING WINTER
As humidity levels plummet, the air outside is becoming cool and dry. This leads to the water in your skin evaporating more quickly, causing dryness and dehydration.
The harsh winter climate forces the skin to lose its natural oils and the moisture to escape, leaving the skin feeling flaky and tight.
During this season, it’s important to saturate your skin with hydrating, fragrance-free serums and moisturisers at the beginning of each day.