Dry, chapped or flaky skin isn’t exactly the hot topic of any conversation, but more than seven in ten people in the UK suffer from dry skin on a regular basis and don’t have much knowledge of how to banish it for good. Dry skin often occurs when you use a product that is too harsh for your skin type (and so it dries it out), when you have burnt, bruised or scraped your skin, or when your skin isn’t getting enough moisture and is drying out. I am always open about the fact my skin is really dry (especially on my face) and so I have to be careful with regards to what products I use and whether they are suitable for me. Similarly, when I’m out in the sun this summer – in order to maintain my tan I have to use a really hydrating moisturiser so it doesn’t all come off as soon as I return home (and experience an immediate change in climate!). I own about forty different moisturisers and hydrating lotions and potions, however I have reviewed my favourite five below, so hopefully if you do suffer from dry skin – you can get rid of it for good!
Doublebase Gel
This has been prescribed to me recently, as the dry skin on my face has got worse and although it’s not unsightly I notice it every-time I look in the mirror, so I’d like to get it cleared up. If you suffer from dry skin in any way, you can have this prescribed to you by the doctor (as it is used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis) however it can also be purchased from a chemist or your local Boots. You simply apply it twice daily (morning and evening) or any time you feel your skin becoming dry. It works by hydrating skin and creating a protective layer over the skins surface to prevent it from drying out any further. I’ve only been using it for about a week, so I can’t say its yet completely cleared up my dry skin – but it is most definitely helping.
Simple Kind To Skin Rich Moisturiser
I have been using Simple’s products for years, because they really ARE kind to skin and although many products claim to be fragrance free (and yet still upset my skin), Simple’s products really live up to the claims they make. The rich moisturiser is far more liquid like in consistency than the ‘light moisturiser’ which I also use, however both work just as well at clearing up dry skin and softening the skin’s surface. I usually apply a dollop of this before putting on my make-up, as it dries really quickly and provides a smooth base for foundations and primers.
Nelsons Calendula Formula
I was sent this cream a few months ago to review, but with exams and revision to deal with, it took me ages to review it. Once I did give it a go however, I was pleasantly surprised by the results as it conquers dry skin almost immediately and after a few uses, your skin is pretty much good as new! Although it isn’t specifically designed to be used on your face, I used it on mine and I didn’t suffer any negative side effects or reactions. The formula is fragrance free and contains no artificial colourings or parabens. It is strong enough to clear up dry skin conditions, but is still formulated to be used everyday under make-up or before bed. If you are going away this summer and tend to suffer from dry, burnt skin – this would be the ideal product to take because it really does clear up dry skin quickly and efficiently (so you won’t miss any vital tanning time or waste any of your holiday suffering).
E45 Intense Recovery Moisture-Control Lotion
I have been using E45 for years, as it really is the best brand for curing and preventing dry skin. This specific product is mainly formulated for the body, rather than the face however it doubles up as a fabulous after-sun as it soothes skin as well as replenishing it. Similar to the Doublebase gel formula, the E45 intense recovery lotion also creates a protective layer over skin to prevent it from drying out any further and aims to maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance.
Lacura Aqua-Complete Multi Intensive Serum
I often find that serums can be a little too harsh for my skin, as they tend to be quite strong and fairly concentrated. I have previously been sent a few to review, but haven’t tried them out because I fear they might upset my skin. It was actually by accident that I tried this Lacura Serum, because I initially thought it was a moisturiser. It is designed to be used on the face, but is suitable to be used in any dry areas. A ten pence piece size dollop of the serum is enough to completely re-hydrate skin and replenish the much needed moisture it needs. It is ideal for all skin types and can be used twice daily to maintain healthy looking, hydrated skin!
