Home remedies for dry skin on the face are as varied as the causes of the condition. Fortunately, doctor-recommended at-home treatments are safe and work for symptoms of dryness, itchiness, flaky or dull skin. Dermatologists caution that not every cosmetic product or skin-care technique will be as effective for everybody. You can try any or all of these gentle remedies, however, and choose those that are best for your skin type.
Cleanse Daily
When skin is dry and sensitive, routine cleansing is the first stop on the road back to healthy skin. Dry, rough skin indicates that cellular growth has become restricted, leaving dead skin cells on the outer surface of the epidermis. Dead skin may be trapped there by oil, dirt or cosmetic-product residue. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) say that daily skin care should include cleansing with a mild, fragrance-free soap, or simply with water if skin is severely dry and cracked.
Moisturize After Cleansing
Soothe and smooth your skin with a moisturizing cosmetic product directly after cleansing. Dry facial skin needs the help of moisturizing cream or lotion to attract the water remaining on skin and seal it in. To restore healthy skin, professionals at the Skin Sciences Institute (SSI) suggest choosing a moisturizer rich in humectant (water-attracting) and occlusive (barrier-forming) ingredients, such as glycerin and petrolatum.
Use an Indoor Humidifier
An electric room humidifier has a continuous, positive effect on dry, painful facial skin. Low environmental humidity draws moisture out of the skin. The AAD endorses this home skin-care remedy, especially in winter when indoor heating systems dry out the air. A humidifier that produces a cool mist rather than a warm one may feel best on your face.
Apply a Night Cream
Healthy skin works at repairing any daytime damage after hours, when it is protected from sun and other stresses. Applying an intensive nighttime cosmetic product can aid this process, if dryness is affecting skin function. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic suggest an oil-rich night cream that contains propylene glycol or urea.
Stop Smoking
Experts at SSI note that smoking cigarettes is a threat to healthy skin. If you have dry skin and you smoke, quit. If you don't smoke, avoid others who do, because secondhand smoke is just as damaging to the moisture barrier of your epidermis.
Protect Skin From Extremes
Help dry skin heal by protecting it from further harm before going outside in summer and winter. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or stronger year round, AAD dermatologists advise. In cold or windy winter weather, home skin care should include an application of moisturizing cream or petroleum jelly before going outdoors.
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