Dry skin can affect any skin type. But when it comes to melanin-rich skin, dryness is often more prevalent. If you’ve noticed that your skin tends to lean towards the oily side, ashiness can still rear its ugly head. There may be several reasons, but getting ahead of the curve can keep dryness in the rearview.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, people with brown, black, or fair skin are more likely to experience dry skin than those with a medium complexion, i.e., those with Mediterranean ancestry. So, even if you’re trying to camouflage shiny grease as a recent glow-up, your skin may be experiencing an imbalance of sebum production. The good news is that you can take easy steps to alleviate symptoms of dry skin.
Here's How.✨
USE GENTLE PRODUCTS
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic cleansers are game-changers for anyone with dry skin. Other conditions, such as eczema, cracked skin, and scaliness, are also more commonly associated with dry skin. This skin type can benefit from gentle cleansers that hydrate skin rather than dry it out. A key takeaway is to avoid products that contain alcohol or strong fragrances, as they can easily irritate dry or sensitive skin.
TRAP IN MOISTURE
In other words, it’s time to moisturize regularly and often. After cleansing your face (or body), pat dry and reach for a skin-soothing moisturizer that seals in moisture. Your best defense against dry skin is moisturizers made just for your skin type that calms, soothe, and heal. Look for hydrating ingredients like shea butter with natural fatty acids to help nourish and protect your skin’s natural barrier. And if you think your skin doesn’t need moisture because it’s oily, think again. Oily skin does not mean your skin is hydrated! The opposite may be true. Improving your skin’s barrier by using moisturizing products can help regulate oil production so you avoid the greasy mess.
FIND A BALANCE
Your skin may need balance if you’ve been fighting the good fight of high shine at the wrong times. Oily skin is often dehydrated; finding the proper skincare routine to balance oil production can set things back on course. Research shows that having oily skin does not mean your skin is hydrated. Instead, the skin may be experiencing dehydration from lack of water and overcompensating by producing excess sebum (grease!).
Some signs of dry skin and dehydration in darker skin tones:
💔Dullness
💔Skin that itches and shows signs of irritation
💔 Breakouts and clogged pores
💔Dark circles under the eyes
💔Distinct lack of glow and complexion issues
While there is no quick fix for these symptoms, a solid routine incorporating hydrating ingredients can quickly get you back on track. Look for products that contain natural humectants like Hyaluronic Acid (which attracts moisture) and niacinamide (which fights dehydration by protecting the skin’s barrier). Another powerful antioxidant, vitamin C, can improve skin’s elasticity by keeping it hydrated, plump, and firm.
