Your face experiences a constant assault from potentially damaging elements, including soap, harsh sun rays, overheated rooms and cold temperatures that can dry your skin. Occasional dryness isn't a serious condition, but it may increase your risk of developing wrinkles, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sealing in moisture and preventing additional damage aids skin health.
Causes
Unlike other parts of your body that benefit from protective clothing, your face meets the world head on. Dry, overheated rooms suck the moisture from your skin, and harsh facial cleansers and exfoliants may do more harm than good. Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can cause dryness. Rosacea.org, a website sponsored by the National Rosacea Society, estimates that up to half of all rosacea patients also have dry facial skin.
Diet
Your skin is the largest organ of your body, and you can improve its overall health by eating correctly, reports the online magazine American Chronicle. In addition to eating a balanced diet, drink plenty of water to keep your skin plump and hydrated. Select orange fruits and vegetables, including carrots, apricots and squash for their anti-oxidant value. Add healthy oils, such as flax seed oil or fish oil to brighten dull facial skin. Avoid sweets, caffeine and alcohol.
Soothe
Apply a thick nighttime moisturizer that contains oil after removing the day's makeup, dirt or sunscreen. While your face is still damp, gently smooth on the moisturizer. For relief of itching, use cold compresses. Also use a home humidifier to increase moisture in the air.
Prevention/Solution
You can't cover your face every time you go outdoors, but you can apply a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF for protection from the sun's drying rays. In addition, if you use regular soap to clean your face, switch to a moisturizing facial cleanser and use lukewarm, not hot, water. Avoid facial peels and minimize the use of facial exfoliants, especially if your skin is irritated.
Considerations
Without treatment, dry facial skin may develop redness and irritation, increasing your risk of a skin infection. If your face does not feel smoother and more hydrated after using home treatments and preventative measures, consult a dermatologist.
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