dry skin
11 articles
What Is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is short of oil, not water. Why it happens, what makes it worse, and how to manage a skin type you keep for life.
What Is a Moisturiser?
A moisturiser helps your skin hold water. What it does, what's inside it, how to use it, and whether you actually need one — in plain English.
Can Moisturiser Make Your Skin Dependent on It?
No, and there is no known mechanism for it. Where the belief comes from, what really happens when you stop, and the one grain of truth worth knowing.
MoisturisersDo I Actually Need a Moisturiser?
Most people do, but not everyone. A one-day test to find out for yourself, who genuinely needs one, and who is fine without.
Skin ConcernsDoes Moisturiser Treat Dry Skin, or Just Mask It?
Both, depending on the ingredients. All moisturisers mask. Only some contain what your skin needs to repair the barrier itself.
MoisturisersHumectants, Emollients and Occlusives
Which ingredients pull water in, which smooth your skin, and which keep the water there. A plain-English list of what to look for on a label.
MoisturisersIs Moisturiser the Same as Lotion?
A lotion is a moisturiser. So is a cream, gel, balm and ointment. The only real difference is how much oil is in the mix — and which one suits your skin.
MoisturisersWhat Is the Difference Between a Moisturiser and a Hydrator?
A hydrator adds water to your skin. A moisturiser adds water and holds it in. Which you need, and why a hydrator alone can leave skin tight.
Skincare BasicsWhat Is the Skin Barrier?
The top layer of your skin, what it is made of, how to tell when it is damaged, and how long it takes to repair. In plain English.
Skin ConcernsWhat Does Niacinamide Do for Dry Skin?
It does not add water or oil. It prompts your skin to make more of its own barrier fats, and 4 to 5% is the useful range.
Skin ConcernsOatmeal Baths for Itchy Dry Skin
Colloidal oatmeal genuinely soothes itchy skin. Why it works, why porridge oats do not, and how to run the bath properly.