Dry face is one skin problem that seems to occur at any time of year! My name is Nanette and I'm here to guide you in what to do to relieve this condition.
Dry face skin, also known as xeroderma, is a common condition in which the upper layer of the skin, the epidermis, turns itchy, tight, and rough. Sometimes a rash can occur along with bumps and at times may develop into rosacea.
As a practicing Herbalogist, I am often asked, "What causes my face to become so dry?"
I tell my clients that I strongly recommend learning to recognize your own personal trigger factors.
Listed below are some main trigger factors for a lot of people but be sure to track your responses to see what yours are:
1) weather that is too dry with low humidity, too hot or brashly cold along with the irritating effects of smog and pollution
2) illness, skin diseases, prolonged stress all disturb the balance of our bodily systems
3) bathing too frequently with water that is too hot or even soaking too long in a daily or even weekly bath
4) sensitivity to certain soaps and lotions that contain harmful synthetic ingredients that are harsh and corrosive to your skin
5) over exposure to UV rays to the point of sun burn which damages the skin with long term negative effects including age spots and melanoma
6) alcohol, smoking and caffeine can visibly dry your skin as well as taking medications such as diuretics, antihistamines and isotretinoin (Accutane) which can disrupt the delicate PH balance of your skin or disturb hormonal balance
7) lack of certain vitamins such as vitamin A, Omega 3, zinc and B Complex which all work together to feed and maintain skin structure
8) severe diarrhea and vomiting, a high fever, profuse sweating during exercise or simply not drinking enough liquids can cause your body to lose more fluid than you take in - one of the first signs of dehydration is skin that has lost its elasticity
9) hypothyroidism, a condition that occurs when your thyroid produces too few hormones, reduces the activity of your sweat and oil glands, leading to rough, dry skin
10) age, your skin tends to become drier because your oil-producing glands are less active, cells move more slowly from the basal layer of the epidermis to the stratum corneum, your complexion then appears rough and dull
I know that when problems with facial and neck skin erupts, it is not only uncomfortable but can also be embarrassing with the need to "face the world" everyday.
First, since your lifestyle plays an important role in your external appearance, here are some overall health tips that will benefit not only your dry face but overall skin:
Eat healthy. Your body needs protein, vitamins and minerals to keep your skin healthy. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and drink plenty of water to help keep your skin hydrated.
Exercise. It improves blood circulation, which will improve your skin's tone and elasticity as well as keep your glands and organs stimulated for normal functioning.
Sleep. If you're not getting enough sleep, or the quality of your sleep is poor, your complexion will become puffy, lack lustre and look sallow.
Quit smoking. It causes premature aging and deep creases especially around the eyes and lip area as well as clogs your pores. The amount of skin damage increases with the number of years and cigarettes smoked.
Protect yourself from the sun. No matter what your complexion or skin tone, use sunscreen generously, wear protective clothing, and try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. even during the winter months.
Next, I tell my clients that what they need specifically for their dry face care is a two-fold remedy. Establishing a good daily skin care regimen (great foranti aging skin careas well) will help you to eliminate sensitive skin reactions.
1) Cleanse with warm (not hot) water and use a mild,
"non-soap" cleanser
that is hypo-allergenic, fragrance free. It is important that it contain only natural ingredients filled with nutrients that will begin moisturizing your skin.
Most soaps (even those listed as gentle or doctor recommended) are extremely drying - this is NOT the result you are looking for. Further, always avoid harsh, grainy scrubs as these can irritate your skin.
2) Couple your skin care with a cream that is specially formulated for the face and neck.
It must be a fragrance free, all natural and deep moisturizing face cream. I recommend staying away from is anything that even has a hint of fragrance! I can't tell you how many people I see that use products that are loaded with perfume.
Fragrance ingredients in cosmetics are a key trigger for many persons. A single fragrance may contain 600 or more different synthetic chemicals, many of which have been shown to be allergens, irritants, and sensitizers, and to also possess long-term adverse health effects.
They are a leading cause of allergic sensitization and contact dermatitis among cosmetic users. Reddened skin, acne, stinging eyes and an overall dry face can all be caused by fragrances. Thus, elimination of fragrances goes a long way towards dry skin care.
Never use anything with formaldehyde-based preservatives which are also leading causes of sensitive skin reactions. Instead, use formulations with gentle, yet effective, preservatives such as antioxidants (vitamins C and E) and citrus seed extract that will promote better skin health for mild to severe dry face symptoms.
A natural and effective cream should unpack dry cells and restore and repair your skin
7 layers deep
to penetrate the deepest layers of the skin!
You see, if your cream does not penetrate these layers, the slowed sloughing or exfoliating of dead cells causes cells to clump together in flakes or scales. Eventually, as the epidermis becomes thinner and more fragile and the subcutaneous layer of fat diminishes, your skin loses its strong protective function along with its youthful contours.
A quality face cream should also be formulated with vitamins, herbal botanicals and
shea butter
to have the capability to begin hydrating and soothing problem skin. Also important is that it stops the itching associated with dry face skin while it's working.
Learn to read labels because most creams contain irritating chemicals and mineral oil which simply sits "on top" of the skin, suffocating your pores.
My face skin was so dry and red when I came to see you. Since I was visiting from Ireland I was desperate for relief. What you recommended worked so well that I wanted you to know that I appreciate natural products and I thank you for your kindness. My best to you always, T.McD., Ireland
Listed below are some main trigger factors for a lot of people but be sure to track your responses to see what yours are: 
2) Couple your skin care with a cream that is specially formulated for the face and neck.
It must be a fragrance free, all natural and deep moisturizing face cream. I recommend staying away from is anything that even has a hint of fragrance! I can't tell you how many people I see that use products that are loaded with perfume. 
