How to get rid of dry flaky skin on the face

Flaking happens when the outer skin barrier loses water or becomes inflamed. Cold air, hot water, harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation and new cosmetics can trigger it. It may also occur with [Dry Skin](/symptoms/dry-skin/), [Asteatotic Eczema](/conditions/asteatotic-eczema/), [Atopic Dermatitis](/conditions/atopic-dermatitis/) or [Psoriasis](/conditions/psoriasis/). Redness, itch, burning, sharply defined plaques or flaking around the scalp and eyebrows can help a clinician narrow the cause.

Wash with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, then pat dry. Apply moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp; a thicker cream or ointment may protect better than a light lotion. [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) can help support the barrier. Pause scrubs, peeling acids, retinoids, fragranced products and facial brushes until the skin settles. Reintroduce products one at a time, and use sun protection that does not sting. Do not pick the flakes, because broken skin can become irritated or infected.

Arrange a dermatology review if flaking persists, repeatedly returns, spreads, or comes with intense itch, pain, cracking, oozing or thick plaques. Seek prompt care for swelling around the eyes or lips, widespread blistering, breathing difficulty or a rapidly spreading rash after a new product. A clinician can distinguish dryness from eczema, psoriasis, contact allergy or infection and select treatment safely for facial skin.

Could a product, medicine or skin condition be causing this? Which moisturiser and cleanser should I use? Should I stop any active ingredient, and is a medicated treatment appropriate for my face?