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Skin type
Dry Skin
Dry skin produces less natural oil than other skin types, which makes it harder to hold on to water at the surface. It often feels tight shortly after cleansing, can look dull or flaky in patches, and tends to show fine lines more readily than well-hydrated skin. That is a different issue from dehydration, which is a lack of water rather than oil and can affect any skin type, including oily skin — the two are worth telling apart before buying products. Dry skin generally sits more comfortably with rich, emollient textures that slow water loss than with lightweight gels formulated for oilier skin. It also tends to be more reactive to strong actives and harsh cleansing, and it is noticeably affected by weather: central heating and cold air both lower humidity and can make dryness more obvious through autumn and winter.
23 products
What to look for
- Ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, which help rebuild a barrier that already struggles to hold moisture in
- Humectants such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, applied to damp skin and sealed with a moisturiser rather than left to work alone
- Cream or balm textures rather than gels, since richer, more occlusive formulas generally suit drier skin better
- Gentle, non-foaming cleansers that clean without stripping the limited oil dry skin already has
- Fragrance-free formulas, since a compromised barrier tends to react to added fragrance more readily
What to avoid
- High-strength exfoliating acids used daily, which can increase flaking rather than smooth it
- Alcohol-heavy toners, which evaporate quickly and can pull further moisture from the skin
- Foaming cleansers built around strong surfactants that leave skin feeling tight after rinsing
- Layering several potent actives, such as retinol and a strong acid, on the same evening
Products for dry skin
23 products
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Frequently asked questions
- Is dry skin the same as dehydrated skin?
- No. Dry skin is a skin type that produces less natural oil, while dehydration is a lack of water and can happen to any skin type, oily included. A humectant such as hyaluronic acid addresses dehydration, while ceramides and richer textures address the oil side of genuine dryness.
- Can dry skin use retinol or acids at all?
- Generally yes, usually at a lower strength and lower frequency than oilier skin tolerates. Introducing one active at a time, pairing it with a barrier-supporting moisturiser, and watching for excessive tightness or peeling helps dry skin adjust more comfortably.
- Why does dry skin get worse in winter?
- Cold air holds less moisture and indoor heating lowers humidity further, both of which can pull water out of skin faster than it is replaced. Switching to a richer moisturiser seasonally is a common, straightforward adjustment.
This is general information, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.