Dry skin causes and treatments, Marylebone, London

If you suffer from dry skin, you’ll be all too familiar with the tight, itchy feeling that goes hand in hand with the condition. Dry skin is a permanent state and is often referred to as a “skin type”. It’s caused by the lack of water and lipids (oils) in the skin, and those with dry facial skin are often dry on other parts of the body, too. Taking care of dry skin can be tricky, so read on for everything you need to know about dealing with skin dryness, the most common mistakes I see in the clinic, and my top tips for achieving optimal hydration.

What causes dry skin?

Dry skin is a skin type and is characterised by a lack of oil (sebum) present in the skin. Those with dry skin produce fewer lipids, ceramides, and other substances supporting water retention. Due to this, people with dry skin types often experience higher levels of transepidermal water loss, which is the process of water leaving the skin through the epidermis and is worsened by an impaired barrier function.

Dry skin can also appear dull and lifeless due to a dead-skin build-up, and up close, fine lines and wrinkles may be accentuated.

Dry skin is also likely to be sensitive and more prone to eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea. This sensitivity can give skin an underlying redness or a tendency to feel sore and itchy. In severe cases of dryness, skin can also crack and bleed.

How to care for dry skin

As well as taking care of the skin on your face, make sure that you moisturise your body. I love shea butter products for the body. Shea butter works like an emollient to soften and smooth dry skin. Use it within five minutes of getting out of the shower or bath, as your skin is most receptive then.

In the winter, central heating removes a large amount of moisture from the air, which has a drying effect on the skin. Using a humidifier will help pull moisture back into the air to improve dry, itchy skin and help it remain hydrated. Keep it on overnight in the bedroom for best results.

Consider taking an omega-3 supplement to help hydrate the skin by ensuring the skin-cell membranes are in good shape, thereby making sure they hold onto moisture more effectively.

Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the skin but decreases with age. When applied topically to the skin, Hyaluronic acid promotes healthier, supple skin and locks in moisture. I recommend using products containing ceramides to make the most out of your HA. Ceramides decrease transepidermal water loss, so after applying your hyaluronic acid, apply your ceramide moisturiser to lock the moisture in and help the skin cell membranes stay nourished, firm, and bouncy.

Another helpful tip is to avoid very hot or long showers or baths, as hot water can worsen dry skin. Use warm water, and after the shower pat it dry, rather than rubbing it.

The best professional treatments for dry skin

Skin peels

You might think a chemical peel would be a harsh option for dry, sensitive skin, but the right peel can actually be very hydrating. Gentle, light or ‘superficial peels’, act on the surface level and can help dry skin by removing the top dead layer of skin cells. Typically, exfoliating acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid dissolve dead cells on the skin’s surface, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion with fewer rough or dry patches.

Profhilo

Profhilo is a very fluid hyaluronic acid gel. Once it is injected into the skin, it spreads in a fine layer beneath the skin’s surface, providing deep hydration, and encouraging the skin to regenerate itself. This effectively remodels the skin and gives it a plumper, smoother, radiant and firmer appearance.

Microneedling

Microneedling is an excellent option for treating dry skin as it boosts collagen and rejuvenates the outer layer of skin, replacing dead and dry skin cells with even, new and fresh skin cells for a smooth, radiant result.

Viscoderm Hydrobooster

Viscoderm Hydrobooster is an injectable hyaluronic acid that has been uniquely formulated to improve the skin’s hydration, elasticity, and glow. It also softens superficial fine lines and wrinkles and provides deep hydration, improving the skin’s elasticity, radiance, and smoothness.

If you’d like to learn more about the best ways to restore skin hydration, click here to book a consultation or enquire.