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Out of all of the skin types, caring for dry skin is probably the trickiest. Prone to irritation and almost always in need of moisturizing, we came up with the top 10 things to avoid so you can be on your way to a smooth, hydrated complexion.[Photo: Shutterstock]
1. Washing with hot water. Pretty much a given when it comes to caring for your skin (no matter the type), but people with dry skin will fare worse effects since high-temp water strips away your skin's natural, protective oils.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
2. Putting on water-based moisturizers. Just because your skin is dry doesn't mean your dermis needs water. So when it comes to choosing a moisturizer, pick one that's oil-based instead of water-based. Oil-based moisturizers will help retain the water that's already in your skin, as well as satisfy the sebaceous glands that provide oil to keep it soft and hydrated.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
3. Using products with alcohol in it. Dry skin sufferers should avoid skin care products like toners, astringents, and peels. The main component of these items is usually alcohol and that's a major no-no for parched skin. Skip these treatments all together or research products that are dry skin-friendly.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
4. Using the wrong cleanser. Those with dry skin should pay close attention to what they use as a daily cleanser, making sure its ingredients aren't too harsh. Be wary of face wipes, too. While they do save time and effort, they're usually packed with chemicals that will strip the natural oils from your skin.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
5. Doing (too many) things that suck your skin dry. Swimming (in both salt and chlorine water), along with taking long, hot showers, flying in airplanes, and even taking baths can contribute to your dry skin symptoms. These are obviously inevitable to avoid, so find solutions instead. Hydrate on a long flight. Take quick, lukewarm showers. Moisturize after you go for a swim. And if you love a good bath, there are plenty of moisturizing oils you can add to the tub before you dip in.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
6. Not drinking enough water. Your skin's conditions generally reflect what's going on inside your body. So drinking plenty of water every day will not only keep you healthy, but alleviate your dry skin, too. And since we're talking about diet, be sure to nosh on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, almonds, and avocados.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
7. Drying off completely. Slightly damp skin is the perfect setting for applying moisturizer. After you've showered, taken a bath, or washed your face for the day (or evening), be sure to gently pat your skin with a towel to avoid any irritation.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
8. Heating your home too much. Dry skin folks dread the winter. But hunkering down at home next to the heater isn't the best idea either. To keep your skin from drying up while indoors, invest in a humidifier so your skin stays nourished while you stay toasty.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
9. Avoiding putting on too much moisturizer. There's a myth that slathering on moisturizer on the reg will lead to breakouts. But if you have dry skin, be generous with your moisturizer! Apply throughout the day when needed and at night, opt for ointments and heavy creams that will keep you hydrated until the morning.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
10. Ditching the SPF. No matter your skin type, SPF is a must. However, those with dry skin might realize that lack of sun protection is the root of their rough and dull complexion.
[Photo: Shutterstock]
