Dry, flaky skin is something many of us have dealt with at one point or another, and it can be frustrating trying to figure out what's causing it. While things like cold weather, harsh soaps, or not drinking enough water are often to blame, the reasons can run deeper. Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or hypothyroidism can lead to persistent dryness and irritation, and even things like vitamin deficiencies or diabetes can affect your skin's ability to stay hydrated. Seborrheic dermatitis, allergies, and the natural aging process also play a role in skin that feels tight, flaky, and rough. 

Understanding what’s behind your dry skin is the first step toward finding the right solution—whether that’s adjusting your skincare routine, making some dietary changes, or seeking medical advice. It’s all about taking a personalised approach to nourish and protect your skin.

 

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5 Ways to Deal With Dry Skin

1. Hydrate from the Inside Out

• Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is key to maintaining healthy skin. Aim for at least 8 cups of water a day to keep your skin hydrated from within.
• Eat Water-Rich Foods: Include fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and berries in your diet. These help keep skin cells hydrated and nourished.
• Use Gentle Products: Stop using skin care products that contain alcohol (except for hand sanitiser), fragrance including deodorant soaps

 

2. Incorporate Healthy Fats into Your Diet

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega-3s, such as salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, help to maintain your skin's moisture barrier and reduce inflammation.
• Avocados & Olive Oil: Both are high in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins that nourish dry skin and promote a glowing complexion.

 

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3. Use a Gentle, Hydrating Skincare Routine

• Opt for Non-Stripping Cleansers: Avoid harsh soaps that can strip your skin of essential oils. Choose a creamy, hydrating cleanser instead.
• Moisturise Regularly: Use a rich, emollient moisturiser that contains ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Apply it while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture.
• Bathing Routine: Limit bathing time to maximum 10 minutes 
• Use Humidifier: Use a humidifier as constantly running air conditioning (AC) and central heating units indoors removes moisture from the air and the skin.
• Limit Use of AC: A person with dry facial skin may wish to try limiting their use of AC and heating or start using a humidifier to add some moisture to the air indoors.

 

4. Support Skin Health with Vitamins & Minerals

• Vitamin A (Retinoids): This vitamin supports skin cell turnover and helps repair damaged skin. Include foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach, or consider a topical retinol product if recommended by a dermatologist.
• Vitamin E & C: Both are powerful antioxidants that protect your skin from environmental stressors and promote healing. Foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, citrus fruits, and leafy greens are rich in these vitamins.
• Zinc: Zinc helps repair and protect skin, and is found in foods like pumpkin seeds, lentils, chickpeas, and oysters.

 

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5. Protect Your Skin from Harsh Elements

• Wear Protective Clothing: During cold weather or in windy environments, wear gloves, scarves, and hats to protect your skin from environmental damage. This is especially important for the face and hands, which are more prone to drying out.
• Use Sunscreen: Even during winter, UV rays can damage your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays, as sun exposure can exacerbate dryness and lead to premature aging.
• Avoid Hot Showers: While it may be tempting to take long, hot showers, they can strip moisture from your skin. Instead, opt for lukewarm water to help retain skin hydration while cleansing.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.