Nationwide — It’s no secret that many of us suffer from dry skin. Dry skin can leave you itchy and uncomfortable. It can leave your skin looking lackluster or lead to discoloration. On your face, it can also cause clogged pores and breakouts.
If you’ve been suffering from chronic dry skin, check out these five hacks to repair the damage and treat your clogged pores.
1. Exfoliate
Scrubbing your skin might seem like the last thing you want to do when it’s dry or itchy. However, exfoliation is an essential step toward cleaning clogged pores and paving the way for soft, smooth skin.
Experts tout the benefits of exfoliating your skin. Using a mild, natural exfoliant will help loosen dead skin cells, dirt, and other debris that clogs pores. It also makes other topical skincare products more effective because it allows the skin to absorb them.
2. Add an Acid
When most people think about treating their dry skin, they think of creamy moisturizers. But while those do have a place in your skincare routine, they may not be enough on their own to re-hydrate your skin.
Whether your skin is chronically dry, showing signs of aging, or simply lacking luster, adding a step before your daily moisturizer can help reverse the damage and allow your skin to lock in moisture. Hyaluronic acid is the perfect step.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that our body produces. According to dermatologists, hyaluronic acid skin benefits include keeping tissues well balanced, moist, and hydrated. Even though our bodies produce this acid, applying it directly to the skin will give it a moisture-boost, and help make the rest of your skincare routine more effective.
3. Rethink Your Moisturizer
Not all moisturizers are created equal. Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type and one with the right ingredients can make all the difference.
Start by choosing a moisturizer designed for use on your face. Body moisturizers may clog your pores and could irritate the sensitive skin on your face. Next, check the ingredients. The first five ingredients make all the difference in a moisturizer. Glycerin, petrolatum, and lanolin are common ingredients in face moisturizers. While each has its benefits, if you have sensitive skin, lanolin can cause irritation or even an allergic reaction.
Look for moisturizers from reputable manufacturers, and choose one designed for your skin type, like those for sensitive skin or skin that’s prone to acne.
4. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
Exposure to UV rays will gradually cause your skin to lose moisture as it becomes stripped of the natural oils that keep it healthy and hydrated. This is just one of the many reasons why sunscreen should be an essential part of your daily skincare routine.
Choose a sunscreen designed for use on your face, and with at least 30 SPF. Use it daily, even if you don’t plan to spend time outdoors in the sun.
5. Avoid Habits That Dry Out Your Skin
The right products can help treat your dry skin and unclog your pores. But some of your daily habits could reverse the effects of your skincare routine.
Too many masks or harsh facial peels aimed at treating skin conditions can actually dry out your skin. So can taking too many long hot showers, or rubbing your face with a towel after you step out of the bath.
Unclogging Pores and Treating Dry Skin
Treating dry skin is easier than you think. From adding Hyaluronic acid to your routine to never skipping sunscreen, these hacks can help you reverse the damage and get healthy, hydrated skin.