" Skincare product layering is an effective way to keep dry skin at bay even during the cold winter season."
Skin is our first defense against harmful external elements including pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Our skin tends to be drier with age. Dry skin causes tightness, itchiness and flakiness that weaken the skin's ability to protect our body. It significantly affects our health and wellbeing. What causes dry skin? How to prevent and take care of dry skin?
The Common Causes of Dry Skin
1. Ageing
The sebum production in our skin is controlled by testosterone hormone. Men produce ten times or even higher testosterone than women. This is the reason why men tend to have oilier skin than women. The production of testosterone in men's and women's body declines with age. As a result, the older we get, the drier our skin will be.
Due to hormonal changes, perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal women often suffer from skin dehydration, dryness and pigmentation. The production of collagen, elastin and other skin components in the women's body is decreased during and after menopause. As a result, it weakens skin's barrier function. The skin of perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal women is more prone to damage and ageing.
2. Diet
Poor eating habits and not drinking enough water can cause dehydration and dry out our skin. It is very important to make sure that we have a balanced diet and drink enough water throughout the day. Women need 2 litres of water a day while men need 2.5 litres of water a day.
3. External Factors
Cold temperature and low humidity can dry out our skin. More people suffer from dry skin in winter. Regular shaving and harsh chemicals in skincare and household products can dry out our skin too. Benzoyl Peroxide (found in some acne medications) is known to strip away the natural moisture and damage the barrier function of our skin.
4. Others
Children and adults who are affected by eczema and psoriasis often suffer from dry skin. Also when we catch cold or flu, our skin tends to be drier than usual.
How to Care for Dry Skin
1. Eat Healthy Fats
Not all fats are bad for our health. Healthy fats are good for our body and skin. Some fatty foods help promote healthy skin and prevent dryness such as:
- Fatty fish which is known as the best source of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids help nourish our skin and strengthen its barrier function.
- Avocado which is rich in healthy fats that help prevent dry skin.
- Nuts. Like avocado, nuts contain healthy fats and vitamin E that help protect our skin from dryness and environmental damage.
2. Drink Water Frequently Throughout The Day
In general, adults need about 2 to 2.5 litres of water a day. The sources of water for our body can also be from foods such as fruits and vegetables. To have healthy skin, eat a great variety of fresh fruits and vegetables every day. They contains antioxidants and vitamins that nourish our body and slow down the skin's ageing process.
3. Skincare Product Layering for Dry Skin
Adding a facial oil to your daily skincare routine is the key to keep dry skin at bay. Every morning and evening, follow this 3-step skincare product layering to instantly comfort the skin and eliminate signs of dryness:
On freshly cleansed skin every morning and evening:
1. Start with gently massaging your face and neck with AGEless Serum.
2. Follow with gently massaging the skin around the eyes using your ring finger with AGEless Eye Cream.
3. Complete your ageless ritual for dry skin with mixing 1 pump of AGEless Concentrate and 1 to 2 pumps of AGEless Rich Cream in your palm then gently massage onto the face and neck avoiding the immediate eye area.
The Best Skincare Products for Dry Skin
AGEless Concentrate learn more >>>
AGEless Rich Cream learn more >>>
Author:
Henry Tianus is a multi-award-winning Anti-Ageing Specialist with 3 decades experience in skincare research and product development. Henry Tianus's articles have been read by people in more than 100 countries with USA and UK at the top of the list.