As the humidity drops, our regular skin care routines may not suffice in maintaining the optimal health of our facial skin. Dry air can exacerbate fine lines and wrinkles, making them more noticeable, while also causing our skin to itch and irritate. To combat the discomfort of dry skin, it’s essential to adapt our lifestyle and incorporate certain face masks designed specifically to address this issue.
In this article, we will share a few tips and face mask recommendations that can help you successfully tackle dry skin on your face. By making these adjustments to your daily skin care routine and lifestyle choices, it’s possible to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy, even in the face of fluctuating environmental conditions.
Chapter Overview
Tips from the Dermatologist
To maintain healthy skin, we suggest the following:
- Shower/Bath time: Limit it to 5-10 minutes and use warm water instead of hot water.
- Cleansers: Gently remove dirt and oil with a gentle cleanser.
- Moisturizers: Apply moisturizer after washing to lock in moisture. Use ointments or creams like shea butter, jojoba oil, or olive oil instead of lotions, as they are more effective and less irritating.
- Hand cream: Keep non-greasy hand cream with you to alleviate dry skin.
- Sun protection: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen daily.
- Exfoliation: Opt for gentle exfoliating products suitable for sensitive skin.
- Clothing: Choose non-irritating clothes that won’t aggravate dryness or sensitivity.
- Heat sources: Avoid sitting near open flames or other heat sources that may dry your skin.
- Humidity: Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
Causes of Dry Skin on the Face
Harsh Chemical Filled Face Soaps and Cleansers
We often use face soaps and cleansers that contain harsh chemicals, which strip away the skin’s natural oils. When these oils are removed, the skin becomes drier and more prone to irritation.
Cold Temperature and Low Humidity
During the winter months, cold temperatures and low humidity levels can lead to dry, flaky skin. The air is drier, causing moisture in the skin to evaporate more quickly, resulting in tight and itchy skin.
Taking Hot Showers
Hot showers can damage the skin’s natural barrier by removing its essential oils. To avoid exacerbating dry skin, it’s important to shower with warm water instead, which is gentler on the skin.
Using a Wrong Moisturizer
Using a moisturizer that isn’t suited to your skin type or the climate can exacerbate dryness. It’s crucial to choose a lightweight moisturizer during the hot summer months and a heavier, more hydrating formula during the cold winter season.
| Summer Months | Winter Months |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Heavier, More Hydrating |
Dehydration
Dehydrated skin can lead to breakouts, dry patches, and irritation. It is essential to drink plenty of water to ensure proper skin hydration, helping to maintain a balanced and healthy complexion.
- Moisture: Ensure your skin gets the hydration it needs by using moisturizers suited to your skin type and climate
- Humidifier: Consider using a humidifier to increase indoor humidity levels
- Warm water: Shower with warm water, not hot water, to prevent stripping the skin of its natural oils
- Dehydration: Stay hydrated by drinking sufficient water daily
- Environmental factors: Be mindful of cold weather and low humidity levels
Top 5 Face Masks for Dry Skin
Almond Face Mask
Almond oil is rich in both Vitamin E and Vitamin A, which are highly beneficial for achieving flawless skin. This mask also contains carrot seed oil, which is high in antioxidants and provides anti-aging properties. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
- ½ tablespoon of carrot seed oil
Instructions:
- Mix the oils in a dark colored glass bottle.
- Apply the serum to your cleansed face twice a day.
- Follow up with a moisturizer.
Cucumber Face Mask
Cucumber is a hydrating ingredient that’s mostly made of water, making it an excellent choice for a face mask. It’s also rich in nutrients that replenish and nourish your skin. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of fresh cucumber paste
- ½ tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions:
- Cut a few pieces of cucumber and blend them into a fine paste.
- Mix in the olive oil.
- Apply the mask to your cleansed face and wait for 30 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.
Turmeric mask
Turmeric is a versatile spice that can treat both dry and oily skin by providing it with the necessary moisture. It’s rich in potassium and vitamin C, which help improve skin’s appearance. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon full-fat yogurt
- ½ tablespoon wild turmeric powder
Instructions:
- Mix the ingredients to form a paste.
- Apply the mask to your cleansed face.
- Wait for 15 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cotton cloth.
- Repeat the process 3 times per week.
Aloe Vera mask
Aloe vera is a common ingredient in skincare products. It contains vitamins A, C, and E, which offer antioxidant benefits and help limit the production of free radicals. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- ½ tablespoon vitamin E oil
- 1 tablespoon pure and organic aloe vera gel
Instructions:
- Extract the aloe vera gel from the plant and mix it with vitamin E oil.
- Apply the mask to your cleansed face.
- Leave it on for 30 to 40 minutes, and then massage for an additional 5 minutes.
- Wipe off the mask with a damp cotton cloth and repeat daily.
Honey mask
Honey is known for its antimicrobial properties, and it also helps hydrate, clarify, and nourish the skin. It’s combined with vitamin E oil in this mask, but it’s not recommended for those with oily skin. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- ½ tablespoon of raw honey
- ½ tablespoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
- Mix the honey and vitamin E oil together.
- Apply the mask to your cleansed face.
- Let it dry for 30 minutes before massaging it gently for an additional 5 minutes.
- Wipe off the mask with a damp cotton cloth.
