Characteristics of dry skin: 
Often confused with skin dehydration which is caused by a lack of moisture within the skin, dry skin is a result of inadequate sebum (oil) on the skin surface. Although the two can occur simultaneously, treatments differ as one has a focus on water retention while the other is to moisturize with emollients (oil). Causations of dry skin may be genetically predisposed; environmental such as cold and low humidity climates; lifestyle and habits such as lack of sleep, smoking, stress; chronic use of stripping cosmetics; medication or medical conditions…etc. 

Skin problems commonly associated with dry skin: 
With a direct genetic linkage of eczema condition to dry prone skin, as well as the skin’s tendency to become drier as we age, dry skin can aggravate problems of sensitivity including eczema as mentioned above, as well as dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis, as well as problems of elasticity such as magnifying the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and hollowness of complexion. 

Skincare routine tips for dry skin: 
-moisturization with Squalane and other non-comedogenic plant oils to seal moisture and prevent trans-epidermal water loss 
-for skin also associated with dehydration, hydrate with Hyaluronic Acid, preferably of lower molecular weight to provide below-the-surface hydration 
-incorporate antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Retinol to delay onset of wrinkles and fine lines 
-if the skin is prone to sensitivity or is thinned out due to dryness, incorporate Ceramides, Colloidal Oat, Centella, Vitamin B5…etc into skincare routine