As a makeup artist working in the cosmetics department of a store, I often meet women searching desperately for the perfect moisturiser [1] that will solve all of their skin problems. They always mention a long list of creams they have tried and tell me how horribly dry they are. I am happy to introduce them to luxury creams [2] that work, but I always ask a few questions first. Usually, the culprit for their dry skin is revealed to me in one of those answers. Here are the top seven hidden reasons your face might be feeling like the Sahara Desert — none of them are using the wrong moisturiser.
You Are Using a Setting Spray
While it might seem easy and fabulous to spray your face with a setting spray when you are done applying your makeup, all sprays are not created equal. Many typically use alcohol as a main ingredient.
These sprays act like hairspray on the face and can cause drying and irritation. Choose a spray that is alcohol-free if you are prone to dryness, and look for hydrating and nourishing ingredients on the label. My favourite one is Too-Faced Hangover 3-in-1 Replenishing Primer & Setting Spray [3] (£27).
Your Anti-ageing Products Contain Retinol
You might have chosen anti-ageing skincare products that contain retinol, not knowing about the potential consequences of using too much of the ingredient or maybe not even knowing that the ingredient is in your products. Dry, scaly skin is a common side effect of retinol-based products, since it sloughs off the top layer of skin to reveal new, brighter skin underneath. That means you'll experience flakiness
Read the ingredients of your skin care closely to determine if retinol is to blame for your dry skin. If so, take a night or two off between usages to use hydrating and soothing creams that won't irritate and will add moisture.
Your Face Wash Is Drying Out Your Skin
After looking at the ingredients in your moisturiser, you should check out the label on your daily facial cleanser. Certain cleansers can strip the skin of necessary oils while cleansing impurities and toxins from your skin. Check to make sure your cleanser does not have salicylic or glycolic acids, as these ingredients can be too harsh for those with very dry skin.
I love my glycolic face wash, but I try to use it every other day and use a creamy cleanser on my off days to avoid drying out my skin. Look for cleansers that are moisturising and soap-free for best results. My latest favourite is the It Cosmetics Confidence in a Cleanser [4] (£24). This makeup-removing formula is anti-ageing, hydrating, and soothing, leaving your skin feeling baby soft.
You Are Using Too Much Powder
You might be blaming your skin care for your parched skin, but might actually be dehydrating your skin by piling on powder. Choose liquid or cream foundations over powder ones to fight dryness, and when setting, use powder sparingly. Loose setting powder, like Laura Mercier Translucent Powder [5] (£29), is a safe bet for all skin types. Use a velour puff to apply a light layer; brushes can make skin look dry and cakey.
You Are Overmasking
Choose a mask that is right for your dry and sensitive skin type. Many masks use charcoal or clay as their main ingredients, which can clear the skin of impurities but also strip your skin of essential oils. This can leave you feeling flaky and irritated.
Pick up a calming and hydrating mask that won't cause damage, and stick to using it once or twice a week only. A fun, trendy choice is the hydro version of the Dr. Jart Shake and Shot Rubber Hydro Mask [6] (£8), which will infuse vitamins and amino acids into skin to retain moisture.
You Aren't Exfoliating
This seems like a no-brainer, but skipping this essential step to perfect skin can lead to flaky skin. It's important to remove dead surface skin, but it is just as crucial to choose the right exfoliating product to guarantee no extra irritation. Be sure to choose something nonabrasive and creamy. My favourite is Mario Badescu Almond & Honey Non-Abrasive Face Scrub [7] (£13). It gently exfoliates dull skin and refines pores while almond oil and honey nourish and hydrate. The best part of this product is that it smells like heaven.
All Your Products Are Oil-Free and Matte
You might have started using oil-free and mattifying products in your teens, when your skin could not take any extra oil. If you've never reassessed your products, you might still be using oil-absorbing products. Matte-finish foundations and makeup contribute to making skin appear dry, so switch to something with a radiant finish.
If you are nervous to change all your products, keep your oil-free primers or setting products and switch to a light foundation that is water-based. When looking at labels, the first main ingredient should be water. My favourite is the Nars Sheer Glow Foundation [8] (£32). This product will even out skin tone and hydrate it, leaving behind a gorgeous natural glow.