Skincare for Dull, Dry Skin

Dryness reduces the water content and flexibility of the outer skin layer, while a build-up of loose surface cells can make light reflect unevenly. The result may be tightness, rough patches, flaking or a grey-looking finish. Weather, hot showers, harsh cleansers, frequent exfoliation and irritating products can all weaken the barrier. Dry skin can also occur with asteatotic eczema, atopic dermatitis or psoriasis, especially when itching, redness or persistent scale is present.

Wash with lukewarm water and a fragrance-free, non-foaming cleanser, then pat rather than rub. Apply an emollient while skin is still slightly damp; creams and ointments usually hold moisture more effectively than light lotions. Choose products with ingredients such as glycerin, petrolatum or ceramides, and pause scrubs, peeling acids and strongly fragranced products if they sting. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin during the day. Introduce any new active product gradually, one at a time, so irritation is easier to identify.

Arrange a dermatology assessment if dryness is severe, keeps returning despite a gentle routine, or comes with marked itch, cracks, bleeding, pain, swelling or oozing. Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, warmth, pus or fever. A clinician can check for an inflammatory condition and tailor emollient therapy rather than assuming the issue is only cosmetic.

Could a skin condition be contributing to my dryness? Which cleanser and moisturiser suit my skin? Should I stop any exfoliating or fragranced products? What symptoms would mean I need an appointment sooner?