What is dry skin?

Dry skin types have a lack of hydration caused by an imbalance within the NMF (natural moisturizing factor).

NMF = natural moisturising factors. These are natural substances within the layers of the skin that help to keep it smooth, hydrated and healthy. 

Less sebum (a naturally occurring, oily substance that protects from dryness) is produced, causing the skin to be dry. 

Sebum: a natural oily substance within the skin that helps to moisturise and protect it.

This skin type can be prone to being sensitive as the skin barrier, which acts as a protective shield, can become weakened. 

Dry skin often results in redness, sometimes feels rough in texture, or even flaky.

All skin types can become dehydrated due to a lack of moisture, affected by things like diet and water intake, which isn’t the same as having a consistently dry skin type. 

How to look after this skin type: choose moisturisers and creams with deeply hydrating and nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and/or ceramides, and stick to gentle cleansers that don’t strip your skin.