Facial skin becomes dry when it is depleted of oil or water, often occurring as a result of aging skin or a dry climate, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Although dry skin isn't usually a serious problem, it can appear wrinkled and feel tight and itchy. Following a moisturizing skin care routine should restore moisture, but you may also need to consult your dermatologist if your dry skin persists.
Step 1
Wash your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser. Hot water and soaps that contain alcohol and strong fragrances may strip your skin of its natural oils and dry it out, so stick to lukewarm water and a fragrance-free cleanser that contains a moisturizer, recommends the American Academy of Dermatology. Avoid washing your skin more than once or twice per day and use only your fingers and circular motions to work up a soapy lather on your face. Frequent and vigorous scrubbing with a wash cloth can aggravate your skin.
Step 2
Blot your face dry after you wash, recommends the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Rubbing your skin vigorously can cause irritation and lead to overdrying. You should still be able to feel moisture on your skin when you finish washing your face.
Step 3
Apply a face-formulated moisturizer labeled "noncomedogenic" and "hypoallergenic." This label means the product should be carefully designed to reduce your risk of irritation and acne flares. Some face-formulated moisturizers contain sunscreen with SPF 15 or 30; investing in one of these products will also reduce your risk of having dry skin from sun damage. Spread some ointment or cream onto your face within three minutes of washing your face to help seal in some of the lingering moisture, recommends the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 4
Turn on a humidifier. Dry hot or cold indoor air from the heater or air conditioner can increase your skin's dryness but a humidifier will help keep your skin moist. Whole house humidifiers affect a greater area of your home but they tend to be pricier than portable humidifiers. If you can't afford a whole house humidifier, use a portable humidifier where you tend to spend most of your time, such as your bedroom where you sleep.
Step 5
Drink eight to nine glasses of water every day. This will help increase your skin and body moisture. If you're not up for counting each glass, drink enough so that you don't feel thirsty and so that your urine is slightly yellow or colorless, recommends MayoClinic.com.
Tips and Warnings
- Seek medical advice if your dry face is so itchy that it prevents you from sleeping, if you have any sores or open cuts from scratching or if your attempts to relieve facial dryness haven't relieved the problem, recommends MedlinePlus.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Gentle cleanser
- Facial moisturizer
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 15 or higher
- Humidifier
- Water
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