Understanding Dry Skin
Anyone with a dry skin type would agree that there are certain challenges in keeping it nourished, replenished and supported. In general terms, a dry skin type has a less-than-optimal supportive barrier that helps form stratum corneum integrity.
Dry skin is the result of reduced function from skin constituents such as sebum, natural moisturising factor, and stratum corneum lipids, all of which contribute to the regulation and health of our skin.
What Does Dry Skin Look and Feel Like?
If you look closely at your dry skin, you may notice it appears finer textured without visible pores. A dry skin type never feels oily, greasy or shiny, but instead can:
- Look dull
- Be flaky
- And at its worst, feel itchy or irritated
Dry vs Dehydrated Skin: What’s the Difference?
Dry skin can often be misinterpreted as dehydration, but they are very different:
- Dehydrated skin lacks water within the skin barrier
- May look taut, feel tight, and become flaky if left untreated
- Dry skin lacks oil
- And yes - you can have both!
In basic terms:
➡️ Dehydrated skin = water loss
➡️ Dry skin = oil deficient
What Does Dry Skin Need & How to Nourish It
In comparison to oily skin (which needs refining and balancing), dry skin requires nourishing ingredients to:
- Build and support the skin barrier
- Lock in hydration
- Prevent moisture loss
To support and improve your skin barrier, aim to introduce nourishing and soothing skincare that protect and hydrate the skin. Avoid using harsh scrubs and soapy or foaming cleansers as these may leave the skin feeling irritated, tight, and taut.
For the Face:
- Bc Refresh Cleanser - Gently cleanses away impurities
- Bf Restore Face & Body Serum - Provides much-needed nourishment and hydration
- Br Rosehip Oil - Locks everything in with essential fatty acids and vitamin E
For the Body:
- Hydrate Body Oil - A lightweight blended oil that can be used alone or over Bf Restore Serum to relieve even the driest of skin
Lifestyle Tips for Dry Skin
- Avoid hot showers or baths - heat can further dry and dehydrate your skin
- After bathing, pat your skin dry rather than rubbing
- Consider professional advice on internal nutritional supplements to help nourish the body from the inside out