How to Reduce Dry Skin

Dry skin carries with it a bevy of skin issues. When your skin is dry, fine lines and wrinkles are more apparent, making you look older. Those with dry skin are sometimes more susceptible to breakouts and acne issues. This is because the skin produces oil sporadically, in an effort to combat its dryness. Dryness can also lead to discomfort and even bleeding, due to rashes and peeling skin. Thankfully, you can reduce dry skin quite easily through a regular skincare regime.

Things You'll Need

• Cleanser
• Moisturizer
• Night cream
• Mask
• Facial scrub
• Water

Instructions

1. Cleanse your skin once a day. Excessive washing can strip your skin of essential oils, making your skin even drier. Use a cleanser on your face only at night, to remove the day's makeup, oil and debris. In the morning, simply splash cool water on your face.

2. Use tepid or lukewarm water to cleanse your face. Hot water can be incredibly drying and clear away important nutrients from your skin.

3. Moisturize your skin daily. Choose a moisturizer that is designed for dry skin. A good moisturizer will keep your skin feeling hydrated throughout the entire day.

4. Treat your skin with a rich night cream. Your skin can handle a richer cream at night than during than day. Choose a night cream that is thick and hydrating to work on your skin as you rest.

5. Apply a hydrating face mask to your skin once a week. Face masks that contain natural ingredients such as avocado and olive oil are particularly moisturizing. Leave the mask on for the specified amount of time to allow it to fully penetrate your skin.

6. Exfoliate your skin with a gentle facial scrub. You need to remove the flaky, dead skin cells on the surface of your skin in order to reveal the moist, supple cells below. Use a scrub on your face once to twice a week.

7. Drink at least 64 ounces of water every day. Your skin will never be fully hydrated unless you drink adequate water. Keep a water bottle near you at all times to sip throughout the day.

8. Eat a nutritious diet. Poor nutrition can contribute to dry skin. Take a multi-vitamin daily and ensure that you consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in Vitamin E.

Tips & Warnings

• Put a few drops of olive oil into a bath full of water. You'll notice skin will feel more moist after bathing.

• Avoid caffeine as it has been shown to dehydrate skin.