Understanding Your Dry Skin Type with Seven Shimmers
So, you’re dealing with dry skin. But what kind of dry skin do you have? Is it a manageable type that you can address at home, or is it severe enough to require professional intervention?
Our focus here is on the type of dry skin that can be treated within the comfort of your own bathroom. However, we will also help you determine if seeking professional advice is necessary. Additionally, we will explore the causes, signs, and recommended ingredients for managing dry skin.
Benefit from insights provided by dermatologists Dr. Shereene Idriss and Dr. Nowell Solish to effectively manage and improve your dry skin with Seven Shimmers.
Understanding Dry Skin
Dry skin can be classified into two categories: a natural dry skin type and dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, which are medical conditions requiring professional advice.
For those with a non-medical dry skin type, it is characterized by a lack of moisture in the outer layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, leading to rough, flaky, or cracked skin,”Dr. Idriss explains.
Individuals with a naturally dry skin type struggle to maintain moisture due to lower sebum production, making it difficult to protect the skin from external irritants.
Recognizing Dry Skin: Signs and Symptoms
Dr. Solish details the following common signs of dry skin:
However, severe skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis manifest differently. “Eczema often shows as intensely itchy, red, and inflamed patches of dry, scaly skin, typically appearing in areas such as elbows, knees, and neck,” clarifies Dr. Idriss.
“On the other hand, psoriasis causes raised, red patches covered with silvery-white scales, commonly seen on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. If you observe these symptoms, it is advisable to seek a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment plan.”
To determine if you have dry skin, the most effective method is to cleanse your face with water and wait for 30 minutes without using serums or moisturizers to observe its natural behavior. If your skin feels tight, uncomfortable, or appears dry and flaky after 30 minutes, it is likely you have dry skin.
Factors Contributing to Dry Skin
The top skincare components for addressing dry skin
Incorporating certain ingredients into your skincare regimen can effectively hydrate dry skin. According to Dr Idriss, ceramides can help restore and strengthen the skin barrier, while glycerin draws moisture into the skin.
Additionally, squalane offers lightweight hydration akin to natural skin oils, and shea butter serves as a rich emollient that seals in moisture. Panthenol (vitamin B5) aids in soothing and supporting the skin barrier, while urea and lactic acid foster gentle exfoliation and enhance the skin’s moisture retention.
Dr Solish further emphasizes that hyaluronic acid is crucial for attracting and preserving moisture in the skin.
Ingredients to steer clear of
For those with dry skin, it’s essential to avoid certain ingredients that can worsen the condition by stripping away natural moisture. Dr. Solish cautions against using alcohols like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol, as they are known to be very drying.
Fragrances should also be avoided, as they can irritate sensitive skin and contribute to dryness. Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) is another culprit, known for stripping natural oils from the skin. Astringents, often used to tone the skin, can also lead to excessive dryness.
In addition to avoiding harmful ingredients, there are other precautions to take for dry skin. Dr. Idriss recommends steering clear of hot showers, as they can strip away natural oils and worsen dryness. Limiting exfoliation to once or twice a week is also advised to prevent damage to the skin barrier.
Furthermore, protecting your skin from UV exposure by not skipping sunscreen is crucial, as sun exposure can exacerbate dryness. Using a humidifier in dry environments can also help maintain moisture levels in the skin.
Key Recommendations
While some factors leading to dry skin cannot be prevented, it is crucial to steer clear of harsh components such as alcohols and strong fragrances, avoid excessive exfoliation, manage extreme temperature shifts, and consistently use sunscreen. Opt for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, squalane, and lactic acid for effective hydration.
Refrain from hot showers, promptly apply moisturizer post-cleansing, and seek advice from a healthcare professional if dry skin persists and appears to be a serious condition like eczema or psoriasis.
