5 things people with dry skin should never do

Dry skin is temperamental. One minute it's calm and doesn't itch, and the next it's an angry shade of red, flaky uncontrollably and extremely uncomfortable. As such, it is one of the most difficult skin types and requires patient and gentle care to protect it from environmental aggressors - think cold winter climates, dehydration, harsh cosmetics, and moisture loss. If you have dry skin, here are some tips to help calm the storm, or better yet, keep it from brewing at all. Here are five things you should never (never!) do if you have dry skin. 

1. EXCELLATION 

If you have dry, flaky skin, do not - repeat, do not - exfoliate more than twice a week. Excessive exfoliation will only dry out the skin even more. Avoid formulas with large balls or grains and use a gentle exfoliating scrub instead, such as Gentle peeling with aloe The Body Shop. Massage your face and neck with light circular motions and always moisturize after the procedure.

2. Ignore sunscreen

This is actually true for all skin types, not just dry skin, but ignoring sunscreen every day is a big no-no. Not only has UV radiation been proven to cause skin damage such as premature skin aging and skin cancer, but excessive sun exposure can further dry out the skin...in outdoor movement without sunscreen. Try SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Protection SPF 50, based on Artemia Salt and translucent color spheres that adapt to any skin tone and give it a radiant look. Spread love below the chin to the neck, chest and arms; these are the areas that are the first to show signs of aging.    

3. SKIP THE MOISTURIZER

All skin needs moisture, but perhaps dry skin needs it the most. Stick to a thick, rich formula for evening use after cleansing, and opt for a lighter blend with SPF in the morning (especially if you're wearing makeup). We recommend using Kiehl's Ultra Moisturizing Face Cream SPF 30 in the morning and Higher Nutrilogy 2 at night. Like sunscreen, make sure you don't neglect your delicate neck, chest, and arms! 

4. USE PRODUCTS WITH IRRITANT INGREDIENTS 

All it takes is one application of a harsh formula to intensify the feeling of irritation. If you have dry skin, steer clear of harsh facial cleansers, which can make your skin feel tight and itchy. Choose products that are gentle, safe for dry and sensitive skin, and do not contain or contain common irritants such as alcohol, fragrances, and parabens. Dry skin type should also be careful when using retinol, a powerful anti-aging skin care ingredient that can dry out the skin. Keep track of any usage with rich moisturizer. 

5. TAKE A LONG HOT SHOWER

Hot water and dry skin are not friends. This can make dry skin irritated, allowing the moisture it needs to escape from the skin. Consider cutting your shower time to no more than 10 minutes and switching from scalding hot water to lukewarm. After you get out of the shower, immediately apply a moisturizer or lotion to your skin while it's still damp to restore some of the lost moisture. Or reach out for some Coconut oil. It is very nourishing for the skin after a shower - trust us.