Many people with dry skin unknowingly sabotage their barrier with habits that feel “clean” or “effective” but actually lead to more dryness, irritation and flakiness.
Below are the most common dry skin mistakes dermatologists warn against — and the simple swaps that restore comfort and hydration fast.
Foamy cleansers strip essential lipids, leaving your barrier fragile and tight.
Do instead: choose a nourishing cleanser like Oil-To-Milk Cleanser.
Too many acids or scrubbing disrupts your moisture barrier and causes flakiness.
Do instead: limit exfoliation to 1–2× per week maximum.
Your barrier can’t repair itself if it’s not sealed with nourishing lipids.
Do instead: apply Moisturising Day Cream in the morning and Ceramide Hydrating Night Cream at night.
Combining acids, retinoids and vitamin C can overwhelm dry skin.
Do instead: focus on barrier-friendly layers — hydrating toner, prebiotics serum, moisturiser.
Hot water melts away surface lipids and worsens dryness.
Do instead: use lukewarm water and apply moisturiser immediately after.
Hydration slips away quickly if you wait too long.
Do instead: apply toner, serum and cream within 30 seconds of cleansing.
UV exposure weakens your barrier and accelerates fine lines.
Do instead: use a gentle daily sunscreen.
Dry skin is highly responsive to consistent, gentle routines. Swap harsh steps for nourishing layers — and your barrier will thrive.
