How to care for dry skin? Part 2

Using Oil for Dry skin

After using the moisturiser, a few drops of oil on the cheeks make your face regain elasticity and smoothness. The more ecological, the better. When it comes to oils, bet on quality. Choose one that is made only with pure vegetable oils (borage, avocado, hazelnut…).

Why? They have a high content of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which reinforce the hydrolipidic layer. On the other hand, oils formulated with components obtained from petroleum (paraffin, isopropyl myristate, silicones) have an occlusive effect, so they do not repair the skin.

Suitable Makeup for Dry skin

Dry skin needs foundations that are highly moisturising and contain vitamin E. Fluid or creamy textures are ideal, and a satin finish will give the feeling of “juicy skin”. Your makeup products should have active ingredients and mineral pigments, which do not dry out the skin.

What to eat?

Alcohol favours dehydration as, paradoxically, does a diet rich in fat. However, first cold-pressed seed or fruit oils (sesame, sunflower, rice, olive…) are highly recommended, because they deeply nourish the skin. It is also important to consume polyunsaturated fats, particularly those that contain essential fatty acids and are found in oily fish and nuts.

Hydration is the key

Deeply moisturising the skin is not only a matter of beauty but also of health. The human body contains about 70% water, depending on sex, age and weight, among other factors; but of that percentage, 35% is contained in the skin.

So if we keep it well hydrated, with optimal water content, its appearance will not only be youthful and bright for longer, but we will also avoid problems with peeling, cracks or a feeling of tightness. Drink enough water to keep your skin looking healthier.

Adding Hydration

You will already know that water is a liquid treasure for the skin and the body. Fruit and vegetables are also inexhaustible sources of vitamins, with a very high percentage of water. Also, keep in mind that aloe vera and avocado oil are highly regenerating and nourishing (perfect for elbows, knees and heels!). And, of course, humidifiers, since they keep the humidity level in the home constant.

Things as they are: alcohol is a powerful diuretic, which increases fluid loss. Heat dehydrates, as it quickly causes sweat and air contain conditioning pollutants that also dry out the skin. Do you smoke? So keep in mind that the tar it contains is harmful both from within the body and through smoke, it depletes oxygen from the skin.

Tight clothing is also not good, as it does not allow the skin to breathe and increases sweating. And finally, the calcareous waters. They more easily remove the hydrolipidic layer of the skin. Of course, its effect can be minimised by placing a filter on the taps.

If you have oily skin which is also sensitive

Dry and sensitive skin is more common if your skin tone is of a light phototype. The reason is simple: the lack of melanin leaves it less protected against external agents (sun, pollution, irritants). If this is your case, be extremely careful. Avoid abrasive scrubs, creams with a high proportion of glycolic or toners with alcohol. Instead, choose soothing active ingredients (aloe, liquorice, calendula), because they minimise irritation; and nutrients, such as ceramides or vegetable oils.

Use Photo protector regularly

Heat and free radicals are detrimental to the weak skin barrier of dry skin. The result? The capillaries dilate (couperose appears), the immune system is reactivated (redness and itching appear) and the melanocytes react by manufacturing melanin, which causes more spots.

Using Masks

Two or three times a week, apply a homemade mask, based on fruits such as avocado. If you are not convinced, other products, such as honey, yoghourt or olive oil also work wonders.

Although there is a lot of talk about oily or combination skin, dry skin also needs special care. It is true: this type of skin does not usually have pimples or enlarged pores, but it does not get rid of imperfections either. Itching, tightness, redness and, over the years, many small and annoying wrinkles. But this time we have compiled the best beauty tricks with which taking care of dry skin is easier than ever.