Why Is My Skin So Dry Even When I Moisturize?

There’s nothing more frustrating than doing something you know you’re supposed to do. Then not seeing any positive results of your efforts!

Like eating spinach only to have some stuck in your teeth for a picture. Or working out only to find that the extra sweat you’re producing is flaring up your eczema.

(What? We can’t be the only ones that these things have happened to…)

But if you too have screamed into the abyss, “Why is my skin so dry even when I moisturize?” just know you’re not alone. There are a number of reasons why you may still suffer from dry skin.

And you might not expect the answers we have to provide you today. So, are you ready for your skin care education? Let’s hit the books! (Or rather, the moisturizing cream…)

See Related: What Does Moisturizer Do?

What causes very dry skin?

Of course, there are some obvious ones that may be out of your control. Like cold weather, skin conditions, genetics, or otherwise. But here are some mistakes you may be making in your skincare routine without even knowing it.

Not exfoliating away dead skin cells

Ever had flaky skin and didn’t know where it came from? Most likely, you’re looking at a pile of dead skin cells on your face.

We know, it’s not the greatest visual. But exfoliating with chemical exfoliators or even natural exfoliators can easily help you improve the texture of flaky skin.

So you can say goodbye to that flaky, buttery crust you’d rather eat in a biscuit than have your face. (Because “flaky skin” says way better when describing something you eat, not something you wear…)

Over washing your skin

You might think you’re on top of your skin health just because you wash your face regularly. And you are – so good for you!

But too much washing can strip your skin of its natural oils. And that’s exactly what keeps your skin hydrated in the first place.

So if your skin feels tight after washing, consider stepping back from the washing regimen. At least long enough for your skin to get back to its normal self.

Using a harsh cleanser

Okay, maybe you really want to get into those deep crevices and clean the daylights out of your face. But if you’re using such a harsh product, you’re probably not helping your skin to restore moisture – and that can be a problem!

Some cleansers use salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, alcohol, or even essential oils that can potentially irritate the skin. And this leaves you with skin dryness accompanied by itchy skin.

(Not a great combo.) So consider using a gentle cleanser that’s fragrance free.

And ditch those harsh soaps for good! (Unless you like that dry post moisturizer feel? We appreciate your enthusiasm but please, give your skin a break…)

Moisturizing at the wrong time

This makes your skin sound fickle. But it kind of is when it comes to moisturizer.

Moisturizers work best when applied in the morning and evening. Your skin regenerates as you sleep.

So applying moisturizer at night can help your skin heal faster. And the best time to apply moisturizer in the morning is right after you shower or bathe.

Damp skin holds the most moisture. So adding a water-based moisturizer on top will only help you retain hydrated skin.

We know. It’s a tricky balance with this one. But we know you can do it!

Using the wrong moisturizer

Everyone has a different skin type. So it only makes sense to use a moisturizer that specifically caters to you.

Let’s say you have dry skin but you’re using a moisturizer that’s been formulated for oily skin. Odds are you’re not going to reap the benefits of the product.

So instead, you’ll want to look for something that gives you a burst of hydration. Think hyaluronic acid or other ceramides that can help you retain skin’s moisture.

You’ll find that there are all kinds of skin care products for all kinds of skin types out there. So look around and find what’s going to work best for you!

Mistaking dehydrated skin for dry skin

Let’s say you moisturize regularly but still have drier skin than ever before. Well, maybe you ought to consider that your skin isn’t dry, it’s dehydrated.

Dehydrated skin lacks water. Therefore, your skin becomes less elastic and can start to show signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.

Sure, you may still feel like you have dry skin. But combatting dehydrated skin has to start with the inside out.

Here’s a quick way to help you remember: Dry skin is a skin type. Dehydrated skin is a skin condition.

Using too much moisturizer

Yes, too much of a good thing actually exists. Like how getting outside to soak up some vitamin D can actually turn into a burn from prolonged exposure from the sun.

The same goes for moisturizing. Well, over moisturizing, that is.

You might think that your moisturizer does a particularly good job at trapping moisture. But it can also give you clogged pores and blackheads.

And that’s just a whole other battlefield you don’t want to have to put your skin through. Trust us.

Too many hot showers

We all love the feeling of hot water trickling on to our heads and down our backs. But too much hot water can actually strip your skin dry of the natural and protective oils your skin produces!

And if you don’t remember from before, those oils are key to keeping your skin healthy. That’s not to say you can’t ever enjoy a hot shower again. But do so moderately!

Bonus: What Is The Best Anti-Aging Neck Cream?

Moisturizing tips for healthy skin

Okay, we’ve taken through the reasons why you may still be suffering from dry skin. But allow us to offer you some helpful tips too.

Start with a hydrating toner

Toners are notorious for leaving your skin dry. So you’re probably wondering why we put it here on the list.

Well, toners like witch hazel are a great way to prep your skin for moisture. They can remove impurities and excess dirt.

And ultimately make your skin ready to receive the hydration it deserves. Additionally, toners can target specific concerns you may have like dryness, acne, or sun damage.

And they even help you balance out your skin’s pH levels. Just be sure to look for a hydrating toner if you already suffer from dry skin.

Trust us when we say that every skin type can benefit from this. Even sensitive skin!

Follow with a hydrating serum

A serum is your next best bet for targeting dry skin. And that’s because they act like a sponge, helping your moisturizer go deeper into your pores than you thought imaginable.

(Okay, not that deep. We’re not trying to freak you out.)

We just mean to say that serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C can reinforce the effects of your moisturizer. And besides, serums can target any number of skin concerns too.

Dark spots, fine lines, and dullness might be ruling your world right now. But when you pair an AHA serum with a good moisturizer and a gentle cleanser, you’ll be able to gain back control.

Besides, it’s your face. Isn’t control one of the prime things you actually deserve?

Amp up your skin care routine!

We get it. Sometimes, skin care can feel hard. When everyone’s skin is different, there’s no real one answer that can solve the whole world’s skin problems.

But hopefully, these tips can help you find small ways to combat dryness. Even if it means not taking extremely hot showers every day of the week.

(We know. It’s a sacrifice.)

Anyway, when it comes to dryness, don’t feel discouraged. Making these small adjustments can do wonders for your skin.

And you may even find new ways to hydrate your skin that we haven’t even mentioned! So go forth and find the best skin care regimen for you.

Skin care might feel like “me time.” But you know you deserve it.

Keep Reading: What Is BHA In Skin Care?

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For over 60 years, Viviane Woodard has represented “The Purity of Skincare”. We are the leading beauty brand for skin care products and promote the importance of good skin hydration. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest for skin care tips, product discounts, and more.