Looking After Dry Skin as a brownbeauty
Skincare Self-Care Special
A lot of emphasis is made about oily and combination skin especially where Black and Asian women are concerned, and dry skin barely gets a look in. This can be very frustrating if you have this skin type.
We spoke to Ozohu Adoh, the founder of skincare brand, EPARA Skincare which was created to tackle dry skin. She gave us some tips on how to look after dry skin as a brownbeauty.
How do I know if I have dry skin?
There are two ways you can generally figure out if you have dry skin. Some people have it because it’s hereditary, for instance your mum might have dry skin but one obvious way to tell will be either through your palms – they will be rough, dry and hard to the touch or you notice ashiness on your skin when you take off your clothes at the end of the day.
A second cause of dryness is usually either medical e.g. caused by eczema, using wrong the products or overusing products which compromise your skin barrier and therefore limits its ability to retain moisture. You will be able to tell your skin is dry by the feeling of tightness in your skin immediately after washing your face. Sometimes even after moisturising you will find that your skin does not feel buoyant and refreshed.
What is the best way to look after dry skin?
Hereditary dryness can be managed by using emollients and rich moisturisers. Dryness caused by eczema and other skin issues will need medical solutions. If it is caused by using the wrong products then this can be addressed successfully and permanently by choosing more appropriate skincare products. It is also important that you avoid abrasive products e.g. overly harsh face washes with surfactants which result in foaming. Finally, if you do truly have dry skin, I would advise that you limit face washing to once a day (at most) preferably at night.
What problems will having dry skin present?
Dry skin would usually presents with fine lines on the skin, rough skin surface and tightness. This could also lead to skin looking prematurely aged, dull and lacking vibrancy.
Are there any benefits of having dry skin?
A few – your makeup should typically keep for longer as makeup does tend to slip off oiler skin more easily. Your skin should generally feel less grimy since you are not producing as much sebum as someone with oily skin.
Which key products should I invest in?
Quiet as it’s kept, your cleanser is super important. Ensure you use a cleanser that does not overstrip your skin of its natural oils. Once you get this right, you will find that you are able to tell more easily which moisturisers really work for you.
Are there any additional products I should buy?
Yes, a mask for sure. Clay masks are usually very good for clarifying and decongesting your skin. You can alternate this with hydrating masks. It is important to note that some clay masks are also cleansing so you shouldn’t then cleanse once you take off the mask.
Products for dry skin recommended by our readers
Origins Make a Difference Moisturiser
This is a rejuvenating moisturiser fortified which instantly supports your skin to keep it comfortably hydrated.
Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask
This overnight face mask contains Glacier Water, Hyaluronic Acid and Avocado Butter. It treats your skin with lasting nourishment and superfood-infused hydration while you sleep.
This serum is a restorative treatment infused with concentrated Miracle Broth to help calm the appearance of redness and irritation. Your skin will feel stronger and more resilient and look more vibrant.
This is a powerful hydrator for your skin. It contains four times more moisture than Hyaluronic Acid which makes it smooth and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
This is a mild cleansing oil that improves the overall appearance and softness of your skin. Its highly nourishing, naturally active ingredients prevent irritation, regulate sebum, brighten skin and target hyper-pigmentation.