How to Treat Dry Facial Skin ~ Expert Advice

Expert Advice from Dr Ross Perry and Dermatology Insight

Dry skin on the face is one of the most common concerns dermatologists see, especially in colder months or in environments with low humidity. Tightness, flakiness and irritation can affect anyone — whether your skin naturally trends dry, you’ve over-cleansed, or your skincare routine isn’t providing enough hydration. Understanding the causes and the right treatments can make a dramatic difference to comfort, appearance and long-term skin health. (British Vogue)

Below, we break down effective strategies to manage dry skin, with expert comments from Dr Ross Perry, medical director at Cosmedics Skin Clinics, and clinically backed tips for lasting relief.

What Causes Dry Skin?

Dry skin happens when the skin’s natural barrier — a protective layer of oils and moisture — breaks down, allowing water to evaporate. External factors such as cold weather, indoor heating, and environmental dryness accelerate moisture loss. Internally, age-related changes, reduced sebum production, and certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can make the face particularly vulnerable to dryness. (dermatologist.org.uk)

Other everyday triggers include over-cleansing with harsh products, hot showers, and frequent use of drying ingredients such as alcohol or strong acids. Gentler routines help maintain the barrier and prevent moisture from escaping. (AAD)

Gentle Cleansing: The Foundation of Hydrated Skin

One of the simplest yet most overlooked steps in managing dry skin is how you wash your face.

Dr Ross Perry highlights the importance of water temperature and cleanser choice:

“Hot water can strip the skin of essential natural oils (also known as sebum) and compromise the skin barrier. This means your skin will dry out more quickly, leading to increased itchiness, flakiness, and sensitivity in the long run.” (British Vogue)

Warm — not hot — water paired with a mild, hydrating cleanser preserves natural oils while removing impurities. Cream, balm or oil-based cleansers are excellent choices for dry skin, as they clean without stripping moisture.

Increase Hydration with the Right Products

After cleansing, it’s vital to replenish and lock in moisture (Medical News Today). Look for ingredients that help repair and strengthen the skin barrier:

• Humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin attract and bind water within the skin.
• Emollients like ceramides, squalane or natural oils smooth and soften the skin surface.
• Occlusives such as petrolatum or waxes help seal moisture in and prevent evaporation.

Applying moisturiser to slightly damp skin enhances hydration retention and improves barrier repair. Multi-step routines that layer a hydrating serum under a richer cream are particularly effective in dry conditions.

Exfoliate with Care

Removing dead skin cells can improve the texture of dry facial skin and allow moisturisers to penetrate more effectively. However, exfoliation must be gentle to avoid damaging the compromised barrier.

Mild chemical exfoliants, such as lactic acid at lower strengths, can help lift flakes without disrupting moisture levels. Avoid harsh scrubs or frequent use of strong acids that may worsen irritation. (British Vogue)

Environmental Support

Indoor heating and winter winds both draw moisture out of the skin. Simple environmental adjustments can make a surprising difference:

• Use a humidifier at home to maintain air moisture. (AAD)
• Protect skin outdoors with thicker creams or barrier balms. (Glamour UK)

Dr Perry also recommends a thoughtful bedtime choice:

“A silk pillowcase may feel like an indulgence but it could be key in relieving your dry skin. Silk, as a material, has anti-microbial properties, meaning it doesn’t harbour bacteria or allergens a cotton pillowcase might. They’re particularly good for those with overly dry skin, as well as eczema and psoriasis.” (British Vogue)

When to Seek Professional Care

For many people, improving daily skincare habits and products brings relief. But persistent dryness, flaking that doesn’t improve, or symptoms such as cracks, redness and itchiness that impact comfort can benefit from specialist assessment.

“At Cosmedics, we always emphasise that treating dry skin is best done with gentle skincare habits at home, but there are times when dermatology support makes a real difference.” (British Vogue)

In-Clinic Options for Severe or Persistent Dryness

For dry skin that is particularly resistant or linked to underlying conditions, advanced treatments can support barrier restoration and hydration:

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) can improve skin texture and vascular health.
• Laser resurfacing can stimulate collagen and epidermal renewal.
• Tixel thermal fractional rejuvenation treatment can enhance skin repair by promoting collagen production and improving overall texture.

These treatments are tailored to individual skin needs and can significantly improve dryness-related dullness, tightness, and irritation when combined with a personalised skincare routine.

Summary: Steps to Smoother, More Hydrated Skin

• Use warm water and gentle cleansers to protect your skin’s natural oils.
• Apply moisturiser on damp skin and choose ingredients that attract and retain moisture.
• Exfoliate gently and avoid harsh products that strip the barrier.
• Support hydration with environmental adjustments like humidifiers.
• Consider dermatology assessment and advanced in-clinic treatments for stubborn dryness.

Need Help with Dry or Irritated Skin?

If dry skin is affecting your daily comfort or you’re struggling to get it under control with home care alone, contact Cosmedics for a dermatology appointment. Our specialists can assess your skin and recommend the best treatments — from laser and IPL to Tixel and personalised skincare plans — to restore hydration and balance.

Find out more including comments from other health and beauty experts on The Telegraph website https://www.vogue.co.uk/article/dry-skin-on-face

Dr Ross Perry

Dr Ross Perry regularly provides expert comment and advises the media on a range of skincare and health-related issues.

He has particular expertise in skin surgery mole removal and melanoma; having removed thousands of moles in his career, both within the NHS and privately through Cosmedics Skin Clinics. He has provided expert advice on sun damage and sun protection for a variety of UK media and publications.

He also comments on the latest cosmetic and anti-ageing treatment methods.

DR ROSS PERRY

Cosmedics Skin Clinics

Cosmedics Skin Clinics was established in 2003 and has built up an excellent reputation for cosmetic and medical skin treatments, carried out by GMC Registered Doctors.  The company offer a full range of cosmetic treatments, including popular lip enhancement and wrinkle relaxing injections, dermal fillers; plus medical treatments including mole removal, thread vein treatment and excessive sweating injections.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics has a team of skin treatment doctors and surgeons in their 5 skin clinics across London and Bristol led by Dr Ross Perry.

Call 020 7386 0464 or email [email protected] to book an appointment.