Discover effective tips and remedies your dermatologist will approve to treat and prevent dry, flaky skin on your face. Understand the causes and self-care for this skin condition.

Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered why your face looks so dry and flaky? You’re not alone. Dry, flaky skin on your face is a common and annoying problem that affects many people, especially in the winter months.

It can make your skin look dull, rough, and unhealthy, and it can also cause itching, irritation, and inflammation.

But what causes dry, scaly skin on your face, and how can you treat and prevent it?

In this article, we will explore the symptoms and causes of dry, rough patches on your face, and share some tips and remedies that can help you restore your skin’s moisture, smoothness, and glow.

What Makes Your Face Dry and Flaky

According to Dr. Himanshu J. Vats,

"Very dry flaky skin, also known as xerosis, is a common skin condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including cold or dry weather, sun damage, harsh soaps, and overbathing.¹" 

Dry, scaly skin can be a frustrating and embarrassing skin condition. It can make your skin look dull, rough, and unhealthy. It can also cause itching, irritation, and inflammation.

Dry skin is a symptom caused by various factors, such as:

• When our skin oil-production (produces sebum) is not enough to keep it moisturized.  
• Cold or dry weather, which can reduce the moisture in your skin and damage your skin barrier ¹.
• Sun exposure, which can dehydrate your skin and cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer ².
• Harsh soaps, cleansers, and cosmetics, which can strip your skin of its natural oils and disrupt your skin’s pH balance ².
• Over-washing or over-exfoliating your face, which can remove the protective layer of shedding  skin cells and make your skin more vulnerable to irritation and infection ³.
• Aging, which can reduce your skin’s ability to retain water and produce oil, leading to dryness and wrinkles ⁴.
• Medical conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and allergies, which can affect your skin’s health and function.
• Medications, such as antihistamines, diuretics, acne treatments, and blood pressure drugs, which can have side effects on your skin.

Fortunately, there are ways to treat and prevent  dehydrated, peeling skin. Dry skin causes may be irritating, but easily remedied with some know-how of its underlying causes.

Tips to Treat the Factors that Dry Out Your Face

Here are some tips and remedies that can help you restore your skin’s moisture, smoothness, and glow.

• Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Avoid soaps, foams, and scrubs that can dry out your skin. Instead, use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that is suitable for your skin type. Look for ingredients that can moisturize and soothe your skin, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and chamomile . Wash your face twice a day, in the morning and at night, using lukewarm water and your fingertips. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel, and avoid rubbing or tugging your skin .
• Apply a moisturizer right after cleansing. Moisturizing is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and preventing water loss. Choose a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type and condition. For dry, flaky skin, you may need a thicker, creamier moisturizer that can lock in moisture and repair your skin barrier. Look for ingredients that can nourish and protect your skin, such as ceramides, shea butter, jojoba oil, and niacinamide . Apply a generous amount of moisturizer to your face and neck while your skin is still damp, and massage it gently until it is absorbed .
• Exfoliate your face once or twice a week. Exfoliating can help remove the dead skin cells that can make your skin look flaky and dull. It can also improve your skin’s texture, tone, and appearance. However, be careful not to overdo it, as exfoliating too often or too harshly can damage your skin and cause more dryness and irritation. Use a gentle, non-abrasive exfoliator that is designed for your skin type and condition. Look for ingredients that can gently dissolve or loosen the dead skin cells, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), enzymes, and oatmeal . Apply a thin layer of exfoliator to your clean, damp face, and massage it gently in circular motions. Rinse it off with lukewarm water, and follow with a moisturizer .
• Wear sunscreen every day. Sunscreen is a must for protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun, which can worsen your dry, flaky skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that can block both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 30. Look for a sunscreen that is moisturizing and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your face and neck at least 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours or more often if you sweat or swim .
• Use a humidifier in your home or office. Humidifiers can add moisture to the air, which can help prevent your skin from drying out. This can be especially helpful during the winter months, when the air is cold and dry. Place a humidifier in your bedroom, living room, or workspace, and keep it clean and well-maintained. Aim for a humidity level of 40 to 60 percent, and avoid humidifiers that produce hot steam, as they can burn your skin .
• Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet. Hydration and nutrition are important for your skin’s health and function. Drinking enough water can help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out, and flush out toxins and waste from your body. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol, coffee, and soda . Eating a balanced diet can provide your skin with the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids it needs to stay healthy and moisturized. Include foods that are rich in omega-3s, such as fish, nuts, seeds, and avocados, as they can help reduce inflammation and improve your skin barrier . Avoid foods that are high in sugar, salt, and processed fats, as they can cause inflammation and damage your skin .
• See a dermatologist if your dry, flaky skin persists or worsens. Sometimes, dry skin on your face may be a sign of an underlying medical condition or a reaction to a medication. If your dry, flaky skin does not improve with home remedies, or if you experience other symptoms, such as redness, swelling, bleeding, cracking, or infection, you should consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in skin conditions and can diagnose the cause of your dry skin and prescribe the appropriate treatment options. Some of the treatment options may include prescription-strength moisturizers, topical steroids, oral antihistamines, or antibiotics .

Dry, flaky skin on your face can be a common and annoying problem, but it can be treated and prevented with proper skin care and lifestyle changes. By following these tips and remedies, you can restore your skin’s moisture, smoothness, and glow, and enjoy a healthy-looking and beautiful complexion.

Here are some of the best products for dry, flaky skin that we have tried and tested.

We have rated them based on their performance, quality, and value for money. We have also included the links where you can buy them online. Simply click on the picture.

To make things easier, we've organized all the facial products together.

This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through one of my links, I'd like to thank you for your support! I'm able to get a small commission, with no extra charges for you. To learn more, please check out the full disclosure with all the details.

1.      Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

This ultra-gentle cleanser can be used on the face and the body. It’s pH-balanced, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic. It cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils or disrupting its moisture barrier. It leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. It’s also affordable and widely available.

Rating: 5/5 stars

2.      CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

This hydrating facial cleanser is made with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, attract and retain moisture, and soothe the skin. It’s also formulated with MVE technology, which delivers a controlled release of ingredients over time. It cleanses the skin without drying it out or irritating it. It’s fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. It’s suitable for normal to dry skin, and can also help with acne, rosacea, and psoriasis.

Rating: 5/5 stars

1.     PMD Soothe: Multivitamin Nourishing Toner

Soothe dry skin with PMD Calming Neuro Neutralizing Toner, your ultimate solution for shrinking pores, soothing redness and irritation, and rejuvenating skin tone and texture. Experience a multitude of benefits as this incredible toner effortlessly balances moisture levels, effectively reducing excess oil without leaving your skin feeling dry. This gentle formula leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and totally revitalized.

Rating: 4/5 stars

2.      Cocokind Rosewater Facial Toner

This facial toner is made with organic rose hydrosol, which helps hydrate, tone, and refresh the skin. It also helps balance the skin’s pH, reduce redness, and calm inflammation. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and USDA organic certified. It’s free of alcohol, preservatives, and additives. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and irritated skin. It’s also budget-friendly and eco-friendly.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

1.      The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

This serum is made with hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, which help hydrate, plump, and smooth the skin. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and this serum contains three types of hyaluronic acid with different molecular weights, which allow it to penetrate different layers of the skin. Vitamin B5 helps enhance the skin’s hydration and repair. This serum is vegan, cruelty-free, and silicone-free. It’s suitable for all types of skin conditions, especially dry, dehydrated, and aging skin. It’s also very affordable and effective.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

2.      Beekman 1802 Milk Drops Probiotic Ceramide Serum

This serum is made with goat milk, probiotics, and ceramides, which help hydrate, strengthen, and protect the skin. Goat milk is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, which help nourish and moisturize the skin. Probiotics help balance the skin’s microbiome, which is essential for its health and immunity. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, which prevents water loss and environmental damage. This serum is cruelty-free and clean. It’s free of sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, alcohol, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. It’s especially great for dry, sensitive, and compromised skin. It’s also luxurious and gentle.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

1.      SkinFix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Face Cream - Refillable

This face cream is made with lipids, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, which help hydrate, firm, and plump the skin. Lipids help replenish and restore the skin’s natural barrier, which prevents water loss and environmental damage. Peptides help stimulate collagen and elastin production, which improve the skin’s elasticity and smoothness. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, and fill in fine lines and wrinkles. This cream is cruelty-free and clean. It’s free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicones, and synthetic fragrances. It’s suitable for dry, aging, and sensitive skin. It’s also luxurious and rich and is also refillable.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

2.      Youth to the People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream

This moisture cream is made with adaptogens, squalane, and hyaluronic acid, which help hydrate, calm, and protect the skin. Adaptogens are herbs and mushrooms that help the skin cope with stress, inflammation, and environmental aggressors. Squalane is a plant-derived oil that mimics the skin’s natural sebum, and helps moisturize and balance the skin. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, and plump and smooth the skin. This cream is vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable. It’s free of sulfates, parabens, phthalates, silicones, and synthetic fragrances. People with dry, sensitive, and stressed skin will find this lotion  very beneficial. It’s also lightweight and creamy.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

3.      Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

This water gel is made with hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help hydrate and smooth the skin. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, and plump and smooth the skin. Glycerin helps moisturize and soften the skin. This gel is oil-free, dye-free, and non-comedogenic. It’s suitable for dry, dehydrated, and acne-prone skin. It’s also affordable and refreshing.

Rating: 4/5 stars

1.      ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica

This sunscreen is made with zinc oxide, DNA repairsomes, and vitamin E, which help protect, repair, and prevent the skin from sun damage. Zinc oxide is a mineral sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays, and is gentle and effective for sensitive skin. DNA repairsomes are enzymes that help repair the DNA damage caused by the sun. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and prevent premature aging. This sunscreen is oil-free, fragrance-free, and water-resistant. It’s suitable for  dry, sensitive, and sun-damaged skin. It’s also lightweight and tinted.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

2.      La Roche-Posay Anthelios

This sunscreen is made with avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and oxybenzone, which help protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays. It also contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, which help fight free radicals and prevent premature aging. This sunscreen is oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. It’s also lightweight and moisturizing.

Rating: 4/5 stars

1.      Sebamed Gentle Hydrating Cleanser

This body cleanser is made with allantoin, pentavitin, and panthenol, which help hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin. Allantoin helps heal and smooth the skin. Pentavitin helps bind moisture to the skin and prevent water loss. Panthenol helps improve the skin’s elasticity and barrier function. This cleanser is soap-free, alkali-free, and pH-balanced. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. It’s also gentle and effective.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

2.      CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar

This cleanser bar is made with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which help hydrate, strengthen, and protect the skin. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, which prevents water loss and environmental damage. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, and plump and smooth the skin. Glycerin helps moisturize and soften the skin. This cleanser bar is soap-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. It’s also affordable and convenient.

Rating: 5/5 stars

1.      AmLactin Rapid Relief Restoring Lotion

This body lotion is made with lactic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, which help hydrate, exfoliate, and restore the skin. Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps remove the dead skin cells that make the skin look flaky and dull. Ceramides help replenish and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, which prevents water loss and environmental damage. Glycerin helps moisturize and soften the skin. This lotion is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-greasy. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, rough, and bumpy skin. It’s also fast-absorbing and effective.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

2.      Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream

This moisturizing cream is made with sweet almond oil, glycerin, and vitamin E, which help hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin. Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, which help moisturize and soothe the skin. Glycerin helps moisturize and soften the skin. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals and prevent premature aging. This cream is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. It’s also thick and creamy.

Rating: 5/5 stars

3.      Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion

This moisturizing lotion is made with colloidal oatmeal and glycerin, which help hydrate, calm, and protect the skin. Colloidal oatmeal is a natural ingredient that helps relieve dry, itchy, and irritated skin. It also helps restore the skin’s pH balance and barrier function. Glycerin helps moisturize and soften the skin. This lotion is fragrance-free, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. It’s also lightweight and long-lasting.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Skin Conditions Caused by Underlying Medical Issues

Having extremely parched and peeling skin, which is scientifically referred to as xerosis, is a prevalent skin issue that can arise due to a multitude of factors. These factors may include chilly or arid weather conditions, sun exposure, using harsh cleansing products, and excessive bathing.

However, skin conditions are not always caused by external factors, such as sun exposure, allergies, or infections. Sometimes, they can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that affects the skin’s health and function.

Some of the common medical conditions that can cause skin problems include:

• Diabetes mellitus, which can cause dry, flaky, or cracked skin, as well as infections, ulcers, and necrosis ⁵.
• Skin conditions such as eczema causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. It can affect any part of your body, but it usually occurs on the face, neck, elbows, knees, and hands.
• Thyroid disorders, which can cause hair loss, brittle nails, dry or oily skin, and changes in skin color or texture ⁵.
• Cushing syndrome, which can cause thinning and bruising of the skin, stretch marks, acne, and increased hair growth ⁵.
• Addison disease, which can cause hyperpigmentation, especially in skin folds and areas of friction.
• Cancer, which can cause various skin manifestations, such as itching, rashes, ulcers, or changes in moles.

The best way to deal with skin conditions caused by underlying medical conditions is to treat the root cause. This may involve taking medications, or making lifestyle changes.

In addition, proper skin care, such as moisturizing, cleansing, and protecting the skin from the sun, can help improve the skin’s appearance and comfort. If you have any skin concerns, you should consult a dermatologist, who can diagnose the cause of your skin condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment options.

How to Treat and Prevent Dry, Flaky Skin on your Face

Treating and preventing dehydration of your skin requires more knowledge. You need to understand the best ingredients, products, and routines for your skin type and condition. And, you also need to get access to expert advice, tips, and tricks.

Dry, flaky skin on your face is not a life sentence. It’s a skin issues that can be treated and prevented with proper skin care and lifestyle changes.

Follow a good skincare routine and you’ll soon see and feel the difference. Remember, your skin is your largest organ, and it deserves your love and attention. 

Skin Care 101 to Help Relieve Dry Skin

Natural Remedies for Dry Flaky Skin

Dry flaky skin can be caused by various factors, such as cold or dry weather, sun exposure, harsh soaps, over-washing, aging, medical conditions, or medications. It can make your skin look dull, rough, and unhealthy, and it can also cause itching, irritation, and inflammation. Here are some natural remedies that can help you treat and prevent dry flaky skin:

• Honey is a natural humectant that can attract and retain moisture in your skin. It also has antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent and treat infections, wounds, and inflammation. You can apply honey directly to your skin as a moisturizer, or mix it with other ingredients, such as olive oil, milk, or yogurt, to make a hydrating mask or scrub.
• Coconut oil is a natural emollient that can moisturize and smooth your skin. It is gentle enough for daily use on your face and body. After you're done cleansing, simply apply it directly to your skin or get creative by mixing it with some honey, oatmeal, or yogurt to whip up a nourishing mask or scrub. Your skin will thank you for this little treat!
• Petroleum jelly is a simple and effective way to heal dry, cracked skin. It creates a protective layer on your skin that traps moisture and prevents water loss. You may want to apply some petroleum jelly on your lovely face and body whenever you feel like it, especially before bed or after a refreshing shower.
• Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can soothe and brighten your skin. It can also gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells that make your skin look flaky and dull. You can make an oatmeal bath by adding a cup of finely ground oatmeal to warm water, and soaking for 15 to 20 minutes. Why not try making your very own oatmeal mask? Simply combine oatmeal with water, milk, or honey, and gently apply it to your face. Leave it on for a delightful 10 to 15 minutes, and let the goodness work its magic!
• Aloe vera is a natural plant that can hydrate, heal, and calm your skin. It contains vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids that can improve your skin’s health and function. You can use aloe vera gel from a fresh plant or a store-bought product. You can apply aloe vera gel to your face and body as a moisturizer, or mix it with other ingredients, such as cucumber, lemon, or honey, to make a refreshing mask or toner.

These are some of the natural remedies that can help you with dry flaky skin. However, if your dry flaky skin persists or worsens, or if you have any other symptoms or concerns, you should consult a dermatologist.

Takeaways

Dry, flaky skin can be frustrating and uncomfortable. But you have the power to change that. This article has given you the knowledge and the tools to fight back against dryness. You understand what triggers it, what helps it, and what products work for you.

Now you can have the smooth, hydrated, and beautiful skin you deserve!

More reads:

1. What are the causes of dry flaky skin?

Several factors can contribute to dry skin, including environmental conditions, such as cold or dry air, and excessive bathing or showering. Other causes may include skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, as well as certain medical conditions and medications. It is important to consult a dermatologist to determine the specific cause of your dry, flaky skin.

2. How can I effectively moisturize my dry, flaky skin?

Choosing the right skin care products is crucial for effectively moisturizing dry skin. Look for products specifically designed for your skin type and consider those labeled for sensitive skin. Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing to lock in moisture, and use gentle, fragrance-free products to avoid further irritation.

3. What are some home remedies for dry, flaky skin on the face?

Some home remedies for dry skin on the face include using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, applying natural oils like coconut or almond oil, and using a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. However, it's important to be cautious with home remedies and consult with a dermatologist before trying new treatments.

4. What are the symptoms of dry, flaky skin on the face?

The symptoms of dry skin on the face may include tightness, itching, redness, rough patches, and flaky skin. In some cases, it may also appear cracked, especially in areas prone to dryness like the cheeks and forehead.

5. How can I prevent dry, flaky skin on my face?

If your dry, flaky skin persists despite these measures, consult a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment options. You can also visit this website to learn more:  How to customize your skin care routine with your skin type American Academy of Dermatology