DEALING WITH DRY SKIN
So what exactly is dry skin and what causes it?
While dehydrated skin occurs due to a lack of water and is considered more of a temporary skin condition, dry skin refers specifically to a lack of oils and is thought of more as a skin type due to it being connected to a persons ability, or in this case inability, to naturally produce those oils which the skin requires for healthy function.
If your skin barrier has been compromised due to a lack of natural oils you may feel a tightness within the skin and feel that your usual skin care products start to cause irritation. The damaged skin barrier becomes permeable and is no longer able to retain moisture through a process known as trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) or keep out irritants. As a consequence the skin becomes dehydrated and sensitive.
Dry skin can be genetic but may also be caused/ made worse by sun damage, water exposure or the use of harsh cosmetics. Oil production can also decrease with age resulting in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as the skin does not have enough moisture to bounce back into position.
While skin is supposed to shed continually to promote the growth of new, healthy cells, with naturally dry skin these cells are held to the surface of the skin longer than they should be and can form visible clumps in the form of white flakes.
Healthy
Compromised
The difference between an healthy and compromised skin barrier
How can Dry SKIN be treated?
There are a few suggestions below which should help to combat the problems associated with dry skin:
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Reduce the amount you are cleansing and if you are not already then use a cleanser which is gentle and has a pH of 4.5-6.5
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Reduce the frequency and strength of your exfoliation routine
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Temporarily avoid 'Actives' in your skin care such as; Retinoids, Vitamin C, AHA/BHAs etc
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Avoid extremes of temperature; always use luke warm rather than hot or cold water when cleansing
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If you wear make-up try to reduce or avoid this for a period as these products often contain drying ingredients
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Avoid potential irritants and allergens in your skin care such as synthetic fragrance and/or fragrance derived from essential oils
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Eat a greater amount of omega rich foods such as fish, nuts and seeds
If you do not already then it is recommended that you introduce skin care products into your routine which have the following properties:
Skin Barrier Repairing i.e. contain; cholesterol, ceramides and/or essential fatty acids to rebuild the skin barrier.
Are specifically Rich in Oleic Fatty Acids i.e. omega-9 fatty acids such as Olive and Avocado which are very hydrating and ideal for dry skin. Oils higher in Oleic Acid work effectively to reverse the inflammatory response in various layers of the skin.
Moisture Boosting i.e. contain humectants such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin which bind water to the upper layers of the skin.
Which Fragrance Free skin care products could help combat dry skin?
Below are a some of our favourite fragrance free skin care products which have the properties listed above and which we hope will help you in your fight against dry skin:
Green People - Anti-Aging 24-hour Cream
Often products targeting concerns associated with ageing are perfect for combating dry skin concerns due to them being richer and more focused on fatty acids which are heavier in Oleic Acids. Brought to you by Green People this day and night cream for very sensitive skin contains a moisture-retaining complex to soothe and revitalise whilst being rich in organic plant oils to support natural skin health. Some of the beneficial ingredients which this product contains are:
Evening Primrose
A rich source of Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) which is known to reduce skin inflammation. It also supports collagen and elastin structures within the skin.
Avocado
Rich in vitamins A, D and E the antioxidants it contains reduce free radical damage and promote natural collagen production.
Squalane from Olives
Conditions and moisturises the skin, reducing water loss and restoring skin suppleness and elasticity.
Baicalin
Works to reduce the visible signs of ageing by improving skin firmness and elasticity.
Green tea
Rich in antioxidants to prevent skin cell damage, protecting from collagen breakdown to preserve the skin barrier.
Odylique - Superfruit Concentrate Serum
This organic face oil brought to you by Odylique is a blend of super-strength 100% organic rosehip oil, sea buckthorn and pomegranate, giving an exceptional synergy of 5 omega fatty acids, plus antioxidant vitamins and nature’s miracle phytosterols; a plant based equivalent of cholesterol. Some of the properties of the ingredients in this serum include:
Rosehip Oil
For skin smoothing and cell-renewal.
Pomegranate
Protecting and repairing.
Sea Buckthorn
Rich in vitamin E, carotenoids, omega -3 and omega -6 fatty acid this is a wonderful healing oil which stimulates the skin’s repair mechanisms. Owing to its high vitamin content (A and E), sea buckthorn oil is a powerful antioxidant which offers protection from free-radicals, one of the causes of premature ageing.
Avocado
Rich in vitamins A, D and E the antioxidants it contains reduce free radical damage and promote natural collagen production.
Lyonsleaf - Calendula & Marshmallow Balm
An unfragranced balm from Lyonsleaf made with pure plant oils, beeswax, home grown herbs and nothing else. Great for those with dry and dehydrated skin particularly for those with inflamed skin. Some of the beneficial ingredients include:
Calendula Flower and Marshmallow Root Extract
Calming and anti-inflammatory helping to reduce redness and irritation and leaving a soothing, protective barrier on the skin to maintain moisture levels and aid wound healing.
Babassu Oil
Calms redness and itchy inflamed skin.
Borage (Starflower) Oil
An amazing skin regenerator due to its gamma Linoleic acid (GLA) content. It is great for smoothing the complexion and moisturising the skin. In addition it reduces inflammation.
Avocado Oil
Rich in vitamins A, D and E the antioxidants it contains reduce free radical damage and promote natural collagen production.
Rosehip Oil
For skin smoothing and cell-renewal.
Green People - Hand & Body Lotion
Often dry skin on the body and hands is overlooked or treated in patches as and when required. Brought to you by Green People this easily absorbed hand and body lotion for very sensitive skin contains a moisture-retaining complex to soothe and revitalise whilst being rich in organic plant oils to support natural skin health. Some of the beneficial ingredients which this product contains are:
Evening Primrose
A rich source of Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) which is known to reduce skin inflammation. It also supports collagen and elastin structures within the skin.
Perilla
High levels of omega 3 fatty acids. retains moisture within the skin to prevent dryness. A great antioxidant with repairing and soothing actions.
Squalane from Olives
Conditions and moisturises the skin, reducing water loss and restoring skin suppleness and elasticity.
Shea butter
Rich in vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids. Has excellent moisturising and nourishing properties. Protective and healing for dry skin. High levels of phytosterols promote cell growth.
Myroo - Skin Boost Serum
Brought to you by Myroo this is unique blend of skin loving oils is packed with antioxidants, omega 3, 6 & 9, vitamins & minerals. The concentrated formulation gives maximum nutrition to undernourished skin. It helps protect and repair the skin's natural barrier to the elements. Prevents water loss and helps the skin maintain its natural moisture. The product contains the following beneficial ingredients:
Borage (Starflower) Oil
An amazing skin regenerator due to its gamma Linoleic acid (GLA) content. It is great for smoothing the complexion and moisturising the skin. In addition it reduces inflammation.
Rosehip Oil
Packed with vitamins A, C and E, minerals and Omega 3. This is a wonderful oil for repairing and maintaining skin condition and it is light and easily absorbed.
Jojoba oil
Helps to balance sebum levels, and is a highly protective oil rich in Omega-7&9 fatty acids to provide a non-sticky, light and soft skin feel.
Myroo - 100% Cold Pressed Marula Seed oil Super Boost Drops
Brought to you by Myroo these super boost drops are perfect for tackling dry and/or dehydrated skin either applied directly to the skin or as a boost to your moisturiser. The product contains the following beneficial ingredient:
Marula Seed oil
Marula Seed Oil is rich is Omegas 6 and 9 along with Vitamins C and E. It is a light textured oil that is fast absorbing, nutritive, and soothing for all skin types, including troubled and sensitive skin.
It moisturises and protects the skin and boosts cellular vibrancy. Helping to support and rejuvenate a damaged skin barrier and thereby keeping the skin hydrated.
This is a great oil to use for drier skin types.
Lyonsleaf - Unfragranced Beauty Balm
An unfragranced balm from Lyonsleaf made with pure plant oils, home grown herbs and nothing else. Perfect for use as an oil cleanser or simply as a nourishing skin balm that is great for those with dry inflamed skin. Some of the beneficial ingredients include:
Shea Butter
Rich in vitamins A and E and essential fatty acids. Has excellent moisturising and nourishing properties. Protective and healing for dry skin. High levels of phytosterols promote cell growth.
Babassu Oil
Calms redness and itchy inflamed skin.
Macadamia Nut Oil
This restructuring, softening and nourishing oil is rich in oleic acid so it is highly effective at preventing moisture loss. This regenerative oil is known for its ability to heal scars and irritations.
Calendula Flower Extract
Calming and anti-inflammatory helping to reduce redness and irritation and leaving a soothing, protective barrier on the skin to maintain moisture levels and aid wound healing.