Decoding Dry and Sensitive Skin: Your Ultimate Guide

Whether you have rough patches, flakes or sensitivity, dry skin on your face is never fun. Not only does it feel uncomfortable, but it can be pretty frustrating, too. But what causes the skin on your face to become dry? From environmental aggressors to not using the proper skincare, read on to find out why it happens and how you can treat and prevent it. 

Understanding the causes of dry skin on the face 

There are several reasons that the skin on your face can become dry but identifying your own triggers can help to prevent it. Ahead we look at some of the most common causes. 

• Environmental factors 

From pollution to harsh weather and central heating, the environment we live in can often be the cause of dry skin on the face. For instance, you may find that your skin becomes drier in the winter when the temperature is very cold, or that spending time in a city where pollution levels are high has a negative impact on your complexion. This is because environmental aggressors cause the protective skin barrier to become compromised which affects how well it can retain water. As moisture starts to escape from the dermis, it becomes drier and more prone to sensitivity. 

• Genetics 

Genetics often play a big part in our skin type, especially when it comes to dry skin conditions. While you can’t change your genetics, you can get one step ahead and create a daily skincare routine that arms your skin with the extra lipids and moisture it needs to become stronger. 

• Lifestyle choices 

The way we live our lives has a direct impact on our skin – from how much sleep we’re having, to our diet, stress levels and the environment we live in. For instance, you might find that when you eat lots of high glycemic foods that are processed and sugary, dry skin on the face becomes wor. Likewise, drinking alcohol and smoking can also affect your complexion as they create oxygenation in the skin. This process starts to degrade collagen and elastin in the skin leaving it drier and less supple. Eating a varied and balanced diet, living a healthy lifestyle, and protecting the skin from aggressors can all help to keep our skin happy. 

• A good skincare routine 

Dry skin can be caused by a compromised skin barrier so maintaining a skincare routine that replaces loss lipids is vital to managing it. When your skin is dry, keep to a simple but hydrating routine in the morning and evening using a gentle cleanser, serum, and a face moisturiser for dry skin. This will ensure your skin’s hydration levels are maintained and the skin barrier becomes stronger. 

How to treat dry skin on the face 

Once you understand the triggers of your dry skin a little better, you can start to soothe and hydrate it with moisture-rich skincare. You’ll need products that are rich in certain ingredients known for their long-lasting hydration benefits. Ahead, we share some of the most beneficial. 

• Hyaluronic acid 

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance called a glycosaminoglycan that’s found within the body’s connective tissue. It also plays an important role in the skin’s structure helping it to stay firm and supple. But, as our natural hyaluronic acid levels deplete as we age or when our skin barrier is compromised, adding it topically with skincare can help to prevent dryness and dehydration. What’s more, hyaluronic acid is a very lightweight humectant, so it doesn’t leave the skin feeling greasy or heavy. That’s why you’ll find it in many of CeraVe’s products, such as the Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50. 

• Squalane 

A natural antioxidant and emollient, squalane is a very effective ingredient for soothing dry skin on the face. It’s also shown to have an action on the skin which can help ease sensitivity. That’s why you’ll find squalane in many moisturisers and skincare products for dry skin including the CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser.  

• Niacinamide 

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a brilliant all-round ingredient used to target a range of skincare concerns including dry skin. This is due to the way it helps to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier, helping its overall quality and ability to retain water. It can also help to reduce signs of environmental damage making it appear brighter and healthier. This ingredient isn’t produced naturally by the body though, so you’ll need to apply it topically to reap its benefits.  

• Ceramides 

Ceramides are a natural lipid produced by the body and a vital part of the skin’s composition. This is due to the role they play in helping to hold skin cells together which keeps the skin barrier strong. Environmental aggressors and free radical damage can cause a reduction in these vital lipids leaving the skin more prone to dryness and sensitivity. 

What are our best face moisturisers for dry skin? 

Now you know more about the best ingredients for dry skin, you can help to soothe and prevent it quickly with the right skincare. CeraVe’s formulations like the Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 help to boost hydration levels with 3 essential ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Start by applying the serum to cleansed skin before layering over the moisturising lotion. This will provide intense all-day moisture delivered by our patented MVE technology. After cleansing your skin at night, follow with the CeraVe PM Moisturising Lotion for a continuous release of hydration for up to 24 hours, strengthening the skin barrier as you sleep. 

Caring for dry skin doesn’t have to be complicated and, with the right ingredients and formulations, you can quickly soothe your complexion and prevent it from becoming uncomfortable in the future. Prepare say goodbye to dryness, and enjoy soft, supple, and healthy-looking skin with CeraVe’s everyday  moisturisers. Discover our effective solutions for dry skin today.