If you’ve got dry skin and you’re not too keen on looking like a sunbaked riverbed, it’s time to step up your skincare game. Dry skin is essentially dehydrated skin, and in Australia’s harsh climate, it needs extra TLC to stay healthy. A solid skincare routine will help nourish your skin, keeping it hydrated and protected from environmental stressors.

Understanding Dry Skin

Dry skin isn’t just about feeling tight or flaky—it can be caused by a range of factors. Some people naturally have drier skin, but it can also be triggered by medications such as diuretics, antihistamines, and certain acne treatments. Health conditions like hypothyroidism, eczema, and diabetes can also lead to dryness. On top of that, exposure to harsh weather—be it the blistering Aussie sun, winter winds, or excessive air conditioning—can strip your skin of moisture.

If your skin often feels tight after washing or looks dull, particularly around the eyes and mouth, you may have dry skin. In more severe cases, it can lead to cracking, peeling, and irritation.

Hydration and Nourishment

Caring for dry skin starts with using the right products. Ditch the harsh soaps and opt for a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that won’t strip away natural oils. After washing, always follow up with a rich moisturiser—preferably while your skin is still damp to help lock in hydration.

Oils can be particularly beneficial for dry skin. Natural options like almond, jojoba, and rosehip oil provide deep hydration without being too heavy. When applying oils, be gentle—stretching or pulling at the skin (especially around the eyes) can lead to premature wrinkles.

A weekly nourishing mask can also work wonders. Try mixing egg, honey, olive oil, and rose water for a DIY treatment that will leave your skin feeling soft and revitalised. And if you really want to pamper yourself, a warm milk bath with a few drops of almond oil will hydrate your skin like nothing else.

What to Avoid

If you have dry skin, it’s just as important to know what to avoid. Overheated rooms, excessive exposure to air conditioning, and extreme temperature changes can exacerbate dryness. If you’re stepping out into the cold, slather on a good moisturiser beforehand. And don’t forget the sunscreen—Australia’s UV levels are among the highest in the world, and sun damage will only make dry skin worse.

Steer clear of overly harsh beauty treatments like chemical peels or steam facials, which can strip your skin further. When it comes to makeup, opt for hydrating foundations and avoid powders that can settle into fine lines and make dryness more noticeable.

The Role of Diet in Skin Health

Your diet plays a huge role in maintaining hydrated, youthful skin. Smoking, excessive alcohol, and greasy, processed foods can all contribute to dehydration. On the flip side, eating plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats (like those found in avocado, nuts, and olive oil) can improve your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Staying hydrated is just as important—aim for at least two litres of water a day, and consider herbal teas like chamomile, calendula, or peppermint, which can support skin health from the inside out.

Treat Your Skin with Care

At the end of the day, caring for dry skin is about treating it with kindness. Choose gentle, nourishing products, stay hydrated, and be mindful of environmental stressors. With the right approach, you can keep your skin looking fresh, healthy, and far from that dreaded “weathered leather” look!