When your skin is feeling dry, rough and thirsty, do you instantly slather your skin with the thickest and richest moisturiser you can find? The truth is, this could be doing your dry skin more harm than good.
Read on to find out the most common dry skin myths and the best way to relieve a tight and flaky complexion.
Myth #1: You shouldn’t exfoliate dry skin.
When your skin feels tight and flaky, have you ever thought that it’s a bad idea to scrub it with an exfoliator because it’ll leave it sore and even drier? Well ignore those ideas and start scrubbing! Gently, of course. Exfoliating dry skin is vital as it buffs away the dead skin cells that block pores, which makes it easier for your skin to soak up the nourishing goodness from your serum, oil and moisturiser.
bh product picks: AWE Cosmeceuticals samskrta Skin Polish, Natures Organics Australian Pure Lilli Pilli & Wattleseed Face Scrub
Myth #2: The more I moisturise, the better.
Stop right there! Slathering your dry skin with moisturiser too often will only do more harm than good. Excess moisturiser won’t be able to absorb deep into the skin’s tissue, so it’ll sit on your skin’s surface and stop it from breathing. It can also lead to blocked pores, which is an open invitation to blackheads and pimples. Applying a hydrating moisturiser morning and night is all you need in order to lock in moisture.
bh product picks: Trilogy Ultra Hydrating Face Cream, Vanessa Megan Rose and Chamomile Hydrating Face Cream
Myth #3: Got dry skin? Drink more water!
Believe it or not, when you’re suffering from dry skin, drinking more water won’t replenish your skin’s moisture levels. Dry skin is caused by external factors such as humidity, wind, cold air, hot water and moisture-stripping products, so it’s best to treat it from the outside with nourishing skin care rather than from the inside with liquids.
bh product picks: Sukin Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil, Jurlique Skin Balancing Face Oil
Myth #4: The thicker the cream, the more hydrating it is.
While it may feel like your dry skin is craving a thick, creamy moisturiser, some lighter hydrating face gels or lotions may be more effective at rehydrating your skin. These formulas sink into the skin more quickly so the nourishing ingredients get to work faster, while heavy creams take longer to absorb, can block pores and leave the skin feeling greasy.
bh product picks: Shu Uemura Depsea Hydrability Lotion Enriched, Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser
Did you know any of these dry skin myths? How do you treat dry skin?
I have found that using an oil in place of a night cream seems to work better for me. It’s very hydrating and leaves my skin soft and subtle.