Are you tired of looking in the mirror only to find flaky spots of dry skin? Maybe you're using products for dry skin like moisturizers and gentle cleansers, but it still doesn't seem to have any effect or provide lasting relief.

You're not alone. Dry skin is a common problem, and it can be hard to understand how to properly treat it. Here’s what you need to know to achieve smoother, healthier skin!

WHAT EXACTLY IS DRY SKIN?

Dry skin is a condition resulting from a decrease in the production of natural oils, or sebum, by your skin’s sebaceous glands. This reduction leads to an imbalance in the skin’s moisture levels, resulting in a dehydrated, flaky appearance.

FACTORS THAT NEGATIVELY AFFECT THE SKIN

Since skin can be very delicate, there are several factors that can contribute to or exacerbate dry skin.

Environment: Your environment can play a big part in developing dry skin; cold, dry weather or low humidity levels can negatively impact your skin's moisture balance, whether you’re outdoors or indoors,

Excessive Cleansing: Overwashing your face or using harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils.

Aging: As you age, your sebaceous glands naturally produce less oil, which makes your skin more prone to dryness.

Medications: Certain medications can decrease sebum production and contribute to dry skin. If this is the case, consider consulting with one of our GlyMed Pros to create a plan for keeping your skin as healthy as possible.

If you're already aware of the underlying cause, some situations can contribute to your dry skin even further that you may not have considered, such as:

Harsh Skincare Products: If you're using a face wash or moisturizer that contains alcohol or retinoids, you could be exacerbating dry skin. Consider switching to a gentle, moisturizing product designed for dry skin, such as our Daily Repair Cream.

Lack of Hydration: Inadequate water intake—or too much water loss through sweating or consuming a lot of sugar—can worsen dry skin. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin health.

Excessive Exfoliation: While exfoliating can remove dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth, excessive exfoliation can strip away your skin’s protective barrier and lead to dryness.

HOW TO DETERMINE DRYNESS OF SKIN

To determine if your skin is dry, follow these steps:

1. Texture: Examine the texture of your skin. Dry skin often feels rough or tight and lacks the smoothness that comes with moisturized skin.
2. Flakes or Scales: Look for visible flakes or scales, which are particularly common around the nose and eyebrows.
3. Itching or Irritation: Notice any itching or irritation. Dry skin tends to be more sensitive and can lead to discomfort, especially after washing your face or applying certain products.

Do you need more help identifying dry skin? Ask one of the GlyMed Pros in your area. They have the expertise to assess your skin’s condition and provide custom solutions, even if the root cause of your sensitive skin isn't solely an imbalance of natural oils.

THE NEED FOR THE RIGHT PRODUCTS

Untreated dry skin can have far-reaching consequences that affect both your health and appearance. Beyond the discomfort and itching, dry skin can compromise your skin’s natural protective barrier. 

A damaged barrier can make the skin more susceptible to various skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Dry skin can even accelerate the aging process by leading to premature development of fine lines and wrinkles.

The good news is that the skincare industry has extensively researched dry skin and created a wide array of effective products designed to address this issue.

8 PROFESSIONAL TIPS AND TRICKS FOR ELIMINATING DRY SKIN

These professional recommendations are designed to empower you with knowledge and confidence in your skincare journey. By following these expert tips, you can manage and eliminate dry skin effectively while maintaining healthy skin.

1. Staying Hydrated

Staying well-hydrated is fundamental in the fight against dry skin. While drinking a glass of water can help with hydration, it's better to use products that contain humectants—like hyaluronic acid or glycerin—to help your skin retain moisture more effectively.

Our Accelerator Gel with 20% Alpha Hydroxy Acids takes advantage of glycolic acid to encourage cell renewal and reduce aging effects.

2. Moisturizing Daily

Consistent moisturization is key to combat dryness. Apply a suitable moisturizer (like our Ultra Hydro Gel) immediately after cleansing your face to lock in hydration. This can significantly improve your skin's moisture balance and create a protective barrier against environmental factors.

3. Gentle Cleansing

Choose a mild, sulfate-free cleanser specifically formulated for dry skin. Avoid face wash that contains alcohols and artificial fragrances because these ingredients can strip away natural oils, leading to further dryness and irritation. Consider using our Purifying Cleanser With Salicylic Acid if you have dry skin; it's specifically tailored to be a gentle cleanser and helps to replenish lost oils.

4. Proper Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps to remove the buildup of dead skin cells and can reveal a smoother layer underneath. However, limit exfoliation to once or twice a week to prevent over-drying. Consider products for dry skin with mild, natural exfoliating ingredients like our Peptide Micro Scrub.

5. Avoiding Hot Water

Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and worsen dryness. Opt for lukewarm water when washing your face. Although it may be a relaxing form of self-care, limit prolonged hot showers and baths while you treat your dry skin.

6. Using Humidifiers

In dry climates or during colder seasons, humidifiers reintroduce moisture into the air. Keep one in your bedroom to help your skin stay adequately hydrated, especially while you sleep.

7. Monitoring Your Diet

Your diet can significantly impact your skin health. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like cold-water fish (salmon, mackerel and tuna) can support your skin's hydration levels and natural oil production in the skin.

8. Picking the Right Sun Protection

Sun protection is essential for all skin types, but it's particularly critical for dry skin, which can be more susceptible to sun damage. Opt for a sunscreen with hydration properties, like our Hydrating Protection Gel With SPF 30, to protect and moisturize your skin.

Establishing the proper skincare routine is the most important thing in managing dry skin effectively! If you’re unsure where to start, our skincare experts at GlyMed can offer you detailed advice and recommendations for your specific skin type. Contact one of our professionals today for guidance on the right products for dry skin.