Why is My Skin So Dry Even when I Moisturize?

HOLA, Plant Magic Lovers!

Knowledge is power. Today we are going to dive into the world of moisture on the skin. Join us as we break down some of the topics that will address dry skin.

Did you know that dry skin is a common problem for many of us? Harsh weather, frequent bathing, dirty beauty ingredients, and many factors can lead to dryness. But what exactly is dry skin, and what causes it?

In this blog post, we'll cover some tips and tricks to keep your skin soft and banish dry skin for good, so vamos!

Dry skin is a common skin condition that occurs when the skin lacks sufficient moisture. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including harsh soaps, hot water, cold weather, low humidity, and certain medical conditions.

The symptoms of dry skin range from mild to severe. They  may  include:

• Patches of itchy or scaly skin

• Flaky skin with a rough texture

• Cracks in the skin

• Skin that stings or burns

• Loose, wrinkled skin

• Peeling skin

Mild cases of dry skin are very common. Usually, they are not a cause for concern. Sometimes, more serious cases of dry skin might need medical treatment.

Dry skin can be treated and prevented by using gentle cleansers, moisturizing regularly, avoiding hot water and harsh soaps, and protecting the skin from extreme temperatures and wind. In severe cases, a dermatologist may prescribe medication or recommend other treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve skin health.

According to the Mayo Clinic, ignoring dry skin can lead to conditions like eczema and in severe cases, infections.

Did you know that not all moisturizers are created equal? Moisturizers are a vital part of our skincare routine, but their effectiveness can vary based on several factors!

Studies show that location is one of the most common factors for dry skin. Have you ever noticed that your skin feels dry and itchy during certain seasons or in different parts of the world? Many people experience changes in their skin's texture and moisture levels due to changes in temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors.

During the winter months, when the air is cold and dry, our skin can become dehydrated and lose moisture. This can cause dryness, flakiness, and even cracking, which can be uncomfortable. To combat this, it's important to use a good moisturizer regularly and to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.

Occlusive

Occlusive moisturizers form a protective layer on the skin to prevent moisture loss. This makes them particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as they can help to relieve dryness, flakiness, and irritation. However, it's important to note that occlusive moisturizers can also trap bacteria, dirt, and other impurities, so it's essential to thoroughly cleanse the skin before applying them.

Additionally, they may not be suitable for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, as they can exacerbate breakouts. Overall, occlusive moisturizers can be a useful addition to a skincare routine, but it's important to consider one's skin type and specific needs before incorporating them.

Try our B-Magic Skin Regeneration Cream for extra hydration. ✨

Humectant

Humectant moisturizers can be especially helpful for people with dry or dehydrated skin, as well as those living in dry or cold climates. But don't let the fancy name intimidate you - humectants are basically ingredients that attract and hold onto water molecules!

Some common humectants you might find in moisturizers include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and urea. Yes, urea! Urea isa waste product of many living organisms, and is one of the largest organic components of human urine. 

In the beauty industry, it is very common to use animal urea, sad but true. When applied to the skin, these ingredients work by pulling moisture from the air and trapping it in the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and plump.

However, it's worth noting that using a humectant moisturizer in very low humidity conditions may actually have the opposite effect, as it can draw moisture out of the skin instead of pulling it in.

Overall, incorporating a humectant moisturizer into your skincare routine can be a great way to boost hydration and keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

Emollient

Emollient moisturizers are like a big hug for your skin! These types of moisturizers are specially formulated to provide a protective layer on your skin to help lock in moisture and prevent it from evaporating.

Emollient moisturizers contain ingredients petrolatum, mineral oil, or dimethicone, which are not part of the clean beauty list. They also tend to be thicker and more substantial than other types of moisturizers, so they can take a little longer to absorb into the skin.

However, once they do, they leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and nourished. So, if you're someone who wants to give your skin some extra TLC, an emollient moisturizer might be just what you need!

We invite you to check The Environmental Working Group for more information on ingredients! Many commercial products have ingredients that hide dirtylittle secrets that can be harmful for your overall health. We are animal lovers and will never choose to hurt them. Ingredients like lanolin are animal derived, please research the origin of the sources and we invite you to be part of positive change in the beauty industry by choosing Cruelty Free, from the source to the manufacturing.

Our favorite cruelty free, non toxic, hydration method is using our Ceremonial Luxury Body Oil to worship and nurture your skin. ♡

 

 

Insider tip

It's best to apply moisturizer after showering or bathing to lock in moisture! When you shower, the hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and itchy. However, applying moisturizer immediately after showering can help replenish these oils and prevent moisture from escaping.

According to Sarah Villafranco, MD from Osmia, most lotions contain 65% water. Since oils are purely made of oil and don't contain any water, the best moisturizer post-shower is an oil one. So, take a few extra minutes after your shower to apply your favorite moisturizer and enjoy soft, hydrated skin all day long!

 

To select the right moisturizer, it's crucial to consider your skin type, the season, and the moisturizer's ingredients. Dry skin can be a real drag, but fear not amigas, there are some amazing ingredients out there that can help keep your skin hydrated and healthy!

Look for moisturizers that contain ceramides, which help maintain the skin barrier, and humectants, which attract water to the skin. Natural ingredients like aloe vera, honey, and coconut oil can provide added benefits to the skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options.

One of the most important ingredients is squalene, which is a natural oil that's produced by your skin cells. As we age, our skin produces less of it, which can lead to dryness and rough patches. That's why adding squalene to your skincare routine can be a game changer! It's a lightweight oil that's easily absorbed into the skin, helping to restore moisture and improve skin elasticity.

Another great ingredient for dry skin is sweet almond oil. This nutty oil is packed with vitamins A and E, which are known for their ability to nourish and protect the skin. Sweet almond oil also contains fatty acids that help to lock in moisture, making it a great option for those with dry, sensitive skin.

Plus, it has a lovely, subtle scent that can help you relax and unwind after a long day. So, if you're someone who struggles with dry skin, look for skincare products that contain squalene or sweet almond oil to help keep your skin soft, supple, and well-hydrated!

In addition to choosing the right moisturizer, here are more tips to combat dry skin: First, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially during the winter months. 

Wondering what can you do to keep your skin hydrated during the summer months? Make sure you're drinking plenty of water and switch to a lighter moisturizer that won't feel heavy on your skin in the heat. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, which is great for retaining moisture, or glycerin, which helps to attract moisture to the skin.

Second, avoid taking long, hot showers or baths, as this can strip your skin of its natural oils. Be sure to apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. 

Finally, maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to nourish your skin from the inside out. Foods like avocado, salmon, and nuts contain healthy fats and antioxidants that support skin health.

With these simple tips, you can enjoy soft, supple skin no matter the season! 

The eternal debate: oil vs. lotion. Which one should you choose for your skin? Well, it all depends on your skin type and what you're looking for in a moisturizer. Let's break it down.

First up, oil. When it comes to moisturizers, there's often a misconception that using oil-based products will only make your skin more oily. But did you know that using oil moisturizers can actually be beneficial for all skin types, including oily skin? It's true!

Using an oil-based moisturizer can help balance your skin's natural oils and prevent excess oil production. Plus, some oils, like jojoba or grapeseed oil, are lightweight and absorb quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft and nourished without any greasiness.

So, don't be afraid to give oil moisturizers a try, even if you have oily skin. Just make sure to choose an oil that's right for your skin type and won't clog your pores. Your skin will thank you for the extra hydration and nourishment!

Now, let's talk about lotion. Lotions tend to be lighter in texture and absorb more quickly into the skin, making them a great option for people with normal or oily skin. They're also less likely to clog pores and cause breakouts, making them a safer bet for acne-prone skin.

However, because lotions are lighter in texture, they may not be as hydrating or nourishing as oils. Additionally, some lotions contain ingredients like alcohol, which can be drying for the skin.

So, which one should you choose? It all comes down to your personal preference and skin type. Either way, make sure you choose a product that's right for your skin, and don't be afraid to try out different options until you find the perfect fit!

Did you know that dry skin on your body and face can be quite different? Let's break it down.

Dry skin on your body tends to be more common than on your face. This is because the skin on your body is thicker and has fewer oil glands than the skin on your face. Body skin is also more exposed to environmental factors, such as hot showers, harsh soaps, and cold weather, which can cause it to become dry and flaky. 

On the other hand, dry skin on your face can be a bit trickier to deal with. The skin on your face is much more delicate than the skin on your body and has more oil glands, which means it's more prone to breakouts and irritation. Using a heavy moisturizer or oil on your face can sometimes clog your pores and cause acne.

That's why it's important to choose a moisturizer that's specifically formulated for your face and won't cause any unwanted breakouts. Make sure to look for the ingredients we talked about earlier.

In conclusion, while body lotions and oils can be great for soothing and moisturizing dry skin on your body, it's important to choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer for your face to prevent breakouts and irritation. With the right skincare products and a little bit of TLC, you can keep your skin soft, supple, and well-hydrated from head to toe!

Knowledge is power. We invite you to choose ethically-sourced ingredients and brands when nourishing your body. Remember, while body lotions and oils can be great for soothing and moisturizing dry skin on your body, it's important to choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer for your face to prevent breakouts and irritation.

Beauty starts form within and staying hydrated and supple from the inside allows us to glow on the outside. ♡

Pura vida,

Meleesa Luna