‘How to improve the texture of your dry skin’

Question: Dear Lucy, I need a tip on how to improve my skin.  I have a dry skin, and I am not proud being a woman.  What can I do or use to achieve a soft and moisturised skin? —Stella

Answer: The three basic skin types are dry, normal and oily.  Most dark skins are on the oily side or combination.  However evident signs of dry skin are generally tight, obvious lines around eyes, mouth or on forehead, few problems with skin breakouts and blemishes, but dull, parched or flaky appearance.

Because dry skin is fragile, the signs of aging are more prominent than other skin types.  It chaps easily and is vulnerable to cold and sun, therefore, gentle care and plenty of moisture protection products are crucial to its good condition.  Careful handling in applying and removing beauty creams will help keep your face physically fit.

Cleansing your face morning and night with milky or cream cleanser is sufficient for your skin type.  These products are richer formulations that help quench your thirsty skin and leave it soft and smooth. 

Toners are meant to remove all remaining traces of oil, makeup, and dirt and prepare your skin for moisturising and help give your face a fresh radiance, however, dry skin does not need too much toning.

Moisturising is your skin’s most important beauty treatment, so make your choice a good one.  Your moisturiser should be rich in emollients.  Oil-based moisturisers like baby oil, bio-oil, shea butter or cocoa butter used frequently are good for dry skin and are also good used as eye moisturisers.  Remember to concentrate on your forehead and the area around your mouth, and to apply your moisturiser while your skin is still damp to help lock moisture into your skin.

Exfoliate your skin every two to three days with apricot scrub, Queen Hellene, or use sea salt or sugar mixed with olive oil or honey.  Rub the mixture gently into your skin, after washing off your scrub, the residue of the oils will penetrate into your skin, and also get rid of the flakiness.

Eat with beauty in mind – a good diet consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables, drinking 6-8 full glasses of water a day, wearing moisturiser 24 hours a day, using a sunscreen to guard against harsh rays, moisturising around eyes and neck every night and avoid squinting, frowning as dry skin is apt to lines.