What should you know about really dry flaky skin on face?

The face can lose water and shed visible scale after cold or dry air, hot water, over-cleansing, exfoliation or a new cosmetic. Asteatotic Eczema can produce marked dryness with fine cracks, while Atopic Dermatitis often brings itch, redness and a sensitive barrier. Psoriasis may cause more defined, persistent plaques and can affect the hairline or areas beyond the face. Burning after a product may suggest irritation or contact dermatitis rather than ordinary dryness.

Cleanse with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, non-foaming product, then pat rather than rub. Apply a bland moisturiser soon after washing and repeat when the skin feels tight. Pause scrubs, peels, retinoids, fragranced oils and new makeup until the barrier feels calmer. Emollient Therapy may be recommended for persistent dryness; use products around the eyes and lips only as directed, and apply sunscreen when outdoors.

Get prompt medical advice for facial swelling, blistering, oozing, yellow crusts, severe pain, eye involvement or breathing difficulty after a product. Arrange a dermatology review when flaking lasts despite gentle moisturising, repeatedly returns, spreads, or is accompanied by intense itch, sharply outlined plaques or cracks. A clinician can identify the pattern and choose treatment that will not further irritate the face.

Does this fit Dry Skin, Asteatotic Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis, Psoriasis or a product reaction? Which ingredients should I avoid? Would Emollient Therapy be suitable for my face? When can I safely restart exfoliating or active skincare products?