First things first, let’s straighten things out. Skin type and skin condition are often used interchangeably, however, they are two totally different things and you work them in different ways.

Let’s keep it simple, shall we?

Your skin type is what you were born with ­– it’s your genes. It’s what your parents gave you. Understanding the types begins with knowing the four categories; dry, oily, normal and combination.

A skin condition, on the other hand, is what occurs as a result of your lifestyle or as a symptom of your skin type. Where the confusion usually comes into play is that most brands will try to sell you products based on your skin type when they should be targeting your skin condition.

Here, we break down the dry skin type, defining what it is and how to make it work.

How do I know if I have dry skin?

On the complete opposite end of the spectrum from oily skin, dry skin is a common issue that many people face. My, oh, my does it come with a suitcase of its own woes, but thankfully there are also plenty ways of successfully managing them.

Dry skin often has a tendency towards redness, scaly patches and the feeling of tightness. Pore size is very small but there are visible lines and the skin can be rough, itchy or flaky and feel irritated most of the time. Unfortunately, for this skin type, winter months bring on a whole new level of aggravation thanks to cold and windy conditions, central heating and a general lack of moisture in the air. Furthermore, skin can become drier with age, particularly after the menopause.

Do you have dry skin? If so, it needs some careful love and attention. Long hot showers are not for you – sorry! The problem is, what seems as luxurious is actually stripping your skin further of all and any of its minimal moisture. It’s important that you’re using soaps and cleansers that are gentle and avoiding exfoliators as these may cause further irritation. The same goes for scrubs, washcloths and other cleansing devices which can potentially aggravate dryness.

Enough of what to avoid… now what can you indulge in? Rich-textured moisturizers or ointments and use them as often as necessary to keep your skin feeling soft and supple. Now there’s your luxuriousness…

Your basic guide to dry skin:

AM routine

Cleanse

Eye cream

Hydrating Antioxidant serum

Moisturiser

Sunscreen

Make-up

PM routine

Cleanse

Eye cream

Moisturiser

Dry skin can benefit in the short-term from hydrating masks, but keep in mind that exfoliation should be carried out with caution. If you do want to go down that route, opt for an exfoliator once or twice a month based on if your skin tolerates it.

Lesson of the day – hydration is your BFF. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and use these products to get to work on your dry skin.

Shop our range of skincare products.

Check out our no-nonsense skincare guide for oily skin.

Check out our no-nonsense skincare guide for sensitive skin.