Dermatologist Answers: How to Treat Dry Skin and Repair Your Skin’s Barrier

~5 minute read

If you’re dealing with dry, flaky, or irritated skin, you’re in good company. These issues can be caused by various factors such as harsh weather, frequent hand washing, or the use of irritating skincare products. Ultimately, the solution comes down to repairing your skin’s barrier. Join us as we learn from dermatologists across the country on effective solutions to get your skin feeling smooth and hydrated again: 

Why Does Skin Get Dry?

When the skin's barrier is disrupted, it allows moisture to escape and can let irritants in, leading to dryness and irritation. This disruption can be triggered by environmental factors like cold weather, low humidity, or exposure to irritants like soap.

Common Causes of Dry Skin:

• Age. Older adults are more likely to develop dry skin. As you age, your pores naturally produce less oil, raising your risk of dry skin.
• Medical history. You’re more likely to experience eczema or allergic contact dermatitis if you have a history of these conditions or other allergic diseases in your family.
• Season. Dry skin is more common during the fall and winter months, when humidity levels are relatively low. In the summer, higher levels of humidity help stop your skin from drying out.
• Bathing habits. Taking frequent baths or washing with very hot water raises your risk of dry skin.

How to Treat Dry Skin & Repair Your Skin’s Barrier:

1. Use Gentle Cleansers

One of the most common culprits for dryness is using the wrong cleanser. 

"Cleansers with harsh ingredients can strip your skin of its natural oils," says Dr. Lindsey Bordone, a dermatologist at Columbia University. 

Instead, opt for fragrance-free, soap-free products that are gentler on the skin. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides, which help retain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. 

Read CeraVe’s Guide to finding the best cleanser for your dry skin.

2. Moisturize While Skin Is Damp

Dr. Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist, advises her clients to “Moisturize immediately after washing your face or stepping out of the shower to lock in moisture while your skin is still damp.” (skincare.com).

This simple tip helps trap water in your skin, keeping it hydrated for longer. For extra dry skin, choose thicker creams or ointments, which are more effective at sealing in moisture than lotions.

CeraVe is an amazing option as it uses MVE technology, which slowly releases the ingredients over time, allowing them to absorb into the skin to hydrate and nourish, providing long-lasting moisturizing benefits, according to Dr. Marchbein. 

We also strongly recommend looking for organic skincare products, as artificial ingredients can alter the pH of your skin and destroy your skin's natural barrier. Blumenes Natural Relief Creams are an amazing natural option, and are packed with soothing organic ingredients such as coconut oil, manuka oil, aloe vera, and hemp. 

3. Avoid Long, Hot Showers

While hot water may feel soothing, it can also worsen dry skin. According to Dr. Piliang, the Chairman of Dermatology at Cleveland Clinic, soap and hot water can diminish your lipid barrier. 

“Think about it like butter on a knife. If you put it under cold water, that fat on the knife doesn’t go anywhere. But if you put it under warm water, those lipids will melt away.”

She continues, “It’s the same kind of issue with the lipid layer in our skin. If you put your skin in hot water or you use harsh soaps, then it tends to wash that outer protective fatty layer away.” 

Instead, stick to cool or lukewarm showers, and limit your time in the water to avoid further irritation (self.com).

4. Protect Your Skin’s Barrier with Key Ingredients

To heal and prevent further damage to your skin’s barrier, “look for products that include ceramides, fatty acids and lipids, which naturally make up a large percentage of the skin barrier,” Dr. Piliang says.

-Ceramides: “Ceramides help keep moisture in while also maintaining the skin’s protective barrier,” -Dr. Marchbein (skincare.com).

5. Use Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days. Dr. Khorasani suggests applying a daily sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and avoiding sun exposure when the UV index is at its highest (from 10am to 4pm).

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra-Light Face Sunscreen is one of the best options for those with dry skin.

“The mineral sunscreen, which is oil- and fragrance-free, is a water-based formula packed with antioxidants that help hydrate and defend against environmental aggressors at the same time” (Glamour).

When to See a Dermatologist

If you’ve tried these remedies and your skin is still dry or irritated, it might be time to consult a dermatologist. Chronic skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis often need more targeted treatments, which may include prescription creams or medications.

With these dermatologist-approved tips, you can restore moisture and comfort to your skin. Be gentle with your skincare routine, avoid harsh ingredients, and opt for products that lock in hydration.