What should you know about oils for dry skin?

Dry skin has a weaker surface barrier, allowing water to escape and leaving the skin tight, rough or flaky. An oil can form a layer that slows this loss, especially when applied after washing while the skin is still slightly damp. Oil alone does not add much water to the skin, and scented or essential oils may trigger irritation or allergy. Dryness can also accompany Asteatotic Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis or Psoriasis.

Choose a plain, fragrance-free product and test it on a small area before broader use. Apply a thin layer after a short, lukewarm wash; avoid rubbing cracked skin. If the skin remains tight, use a cream or ointment designed for dry skin rather than adding more oil. Keep products away from eyes and avoid putting oil on open, infected or actively weeping areas. See Emollient Therapy for treatment options.

Seek medical advice if dryness is widespread, intensely itchy, painful, cracked, bleeding, oozing or associated with thick plaques. Arrange assessment when a new product causes marked burning, swelling or hives, or when regular moisturising does not help. Sudden skin changes with other symptoms also deserve clinical review. Dry Skin provides more symptom-focused guidance.

Ask whether your dryness is simple barrier damage or part of eczema or psoriasis, which product texture fits your skin, and whether any ingredient should be avoided.