A slowing down in sebum production results in dry, flaky and easily chapped skin. The problem is exacerbated by environmental factors such as strong sunshine, wind, cold, extremes of temperature (two-thirds of women in the northern hemisphere suffer from dry skin in the winter months), air conditioning, central heating, atmospheric pollutants and strong exfoliators, which strip the skin of moisture. Harsh cosmetics, alcohol-based personal care products and excessive bathing with strong detergents such as Sodium lauryl sulphate all add to the problem. Dry skin can be a sign of dietary deficiencies, especially of essential fatty acids and vitamins A and B complex. Alcohol and caffeine are both diuretics and can dehydrate the skin. Dry skin can also be the sign of an under-active thyroid. Certain medications, such as diuretics and antihistamines contribute to dry skin.Dry skin care
- Avoid going from very hot to very cold environments
- Keep rooms moist, especially in winter by placing bowls of water by the radiators, or use a humidifier
- Avoid excess exposure to strong sunshine, and apply a good sunscreen to exposed areas of your skin
- Get plenty of sleep, as cellular repair is at its greatest when you are at rest
- Regular exercise will nourish and cleanse your skin from within
- Choose a gentle, alcohol-free cleanser, such as an organic cleansing balm rich in nourishing oils
- Avoid harsh exfoliators, strong detergents and very hot water
- Dry skin needs regular stimulation with massage and a balancing facial oil rich in ingredients such as Rosehip and Pomegranate
- A natural moisturiser fortified with skin-balancing plant actives increases the water content of the skin and gives it a soft, moist look
- Use an alcohol-free facial mist or pure mineral water to freshen your face during the day
- Always apply moisturiser to face and neck with light, tapping, upwards motions while the skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in moisture and stimulates the circulation
- If you are aged 35+, try a rich cleansing balm or cream product. Follow with a tiny amount of facial oil and facial serum. Once a week, use a facial mask to clarify the skin and remove dull, dry surface skin cells
Diet for dry skin - Drink lots of filtered water and non-diuretic herbal teas
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, which have a diuretic effect and can aggravate dry skin
- Supplement your diet with vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids from evening primrose oil
- Snack on sunflower and pumpkin seeds and nuts
- Include plenty of oily fish in your diet or buy unrefined, cold-pressed vegetable oil such as flax seed oil. These oils can be used daily on salads and baked potatoes, or mixed into cold dishes
- Eat plenty of yellow and orange vegetables and fruits, rich in antioxidant vitamins C and beta-carotene, green leafy vegetables and wheat germ, sources of vitamin B5
- Increase your intake of vitamin E (found in avocados, wholegrains, nuts and seeds) which is an antioxidant that protects the skin from ageing and maintains elasticity
- Ensure your diet includes zinc, which is involved in hundreds of enzyme reactions essential for skin health. Natural sources include oysters and sesame and pumpkin seeds
- Garlic, onions, eggs and asparagus are high in sulphur, which helps to keep the skin smooth and youthful
- Avoid fried foods, animal fat and hydrogenated vegetable oils, which increase the production of destructive free radicals
- Avoid soft drinks, sugar, chocolate, crisps, or other junk foods
