dry skin

DRY SKIN

What is dry skin?

Dry skin is a skin type which lacks oil and is usually categorised by dull, flaky skin and almost invisible pores. It can sometimes be confused with dehydration, which is a skin concern that any skin type can experience. Dry skin lacks oil, whereas dehydrated skin lacks water.

What causes /triggers dry skin?

Dry skin is a skin type, which may be heredity. In some instances, however, dry skin may be simply caused by environmental factors, personal care products or medications.

ENVIRONMENTAL

Unfortunately, one big, (sometimes) uncontrollable factor in the development of dry skin is the environment surrounding us. Whether it’s heating, cooling or the weather. During winter humidity is low and the cool, dry weather causes the moisture in your skin to evaporate. This will leave your skin feeling tight, dry, irritated and flaky.

Steaming hot showers can strip the skin of its necessary moisturising oils and leave you with tight, dry skin that is susceptible to further skin problems. Avoid dry skin on face by gently washing with lukewarm water and applying moisturiser straight after cleansing.

Even the clothing that we wear – if it’s synthetic or itchy on the skin – can contribute to itchiness and furthermore, dryness

PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS

Harsh soaps, cleansers and abrasives can strip the skin of its vital oils. Even our choice of moisturiser can play a large part in our susceptibility to dry skin. Unfortunately, not all moisturisers are created equally, and many products contain high levels of water (up to 80-90%!). Whilst this provides the skin an immediate feeling of hydration, these products evaporate faster from the skin’s surface and therefore do little to protect and hydrate the skin for longer periods of time.

Dry skin can also be an associated symptom of another skin condition, or disease, including (but not limited to), eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis.

TIPS TO HELP MANAGE DRY SKIN NATURALLY:

• If you have dry skin, you’re probably experiencing dehydration at the same time, so ensure you drink enough water every day.
• Eat a rainbow of fresh produce daily to ensure optimal nutrition
• Check your gut health! Sometimes we can have the best diet, but poor absorption of nutrients so get a naturopath to check your digestive/gut health out.
• Ensure you get enough essential fatty acids in your diet – think of these as moisturisers from within.
• Follow a consistent, natural skincare routine with gentle cleansers, and moisturisers with nourishing, healing and protective properties.

RECOMMENDED 3 STEP SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR DRY SKIN:

1. Cleanse with Olive Soothing Cream Cleanser twice a day. This is gentle and creamy, it won’t strip the skin’s natural oils.
2. Treat withOlive Skin Serum which contains 99.7% plant active Olive Squalene. This replenishes the squalene levels in your skin, your skin’s own natural hydration lipid!
3. Olive Repair Cream will assist to maintain your skin’s essential hydration levels. Containing Olive Squalene and Jojoba Oil, Olive Repair Cream is designed to provide the skin with long lasting hydration and protection from the drying winter elements. Also featuring Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Calendula, the rich cream also assists to calm any existing irritation and soothe dry skin.
4. For the body – use the Phytobody Washor the Olive Cleansing Bar, and follow through with the Olive Hand and Body Cream – or if you prefer an oil, the Coconut Glow Body & Hair Oil has a blend of protective oils that wrap your skin in nourishment.