It is no surprise that dry skin is a concern during winters. Okay, maybe those of you with super oily skin are ecstatic for your skincare goals this time of year, but anyone who has naturally dry skin or combination skin types are probably tackling dry patches on their skin and it isn’t okay. Dry skin, eczema, tightness, redness, inflammation, and even acne, all this is quite troublesome because you get a burning sensation that makes you feel uncomfortable and you can’t even wear makeup in that state. To cure your skin and get some relief, you will need to avoid these skincare ingredients at all costs.
Avoid These Skincare Ingredients If Your Skin Is Excessively Dry
Salicylic Acid
This ingredient is great for gently exfoliating almost all skin types. Although, the percentage of salicylic acid in a product’s formulation needs to be fairly low if you wish to use it on dry skin. OTC products don’t always get it right and therefore the salicylic acid products that you may buy will end up being too harsh and irritating on your skin. Even if it is to clear up acne on dry skin, it’s better to take a recommendation from your dermatogist on a salicylic acid product or avoid it completely. If salicylic acid cleansers were your go-to in hot and humid weather, you can instead switch to a creamy cleanser that boasts of boosting radiance or moisture levels for a gentle cleanse.
Willow Bark Extract
If you see willow bark extract in your natural skincare product’s ingredients list, avoid it. Why? Willow bark is the natural form of salicylic acid and, once again, if the concentration of this ingredient is too high in the product, it might worsen your skin concern. Willow bark is often found in serums for targeted action, and so you can instead use a glow-boosting essence or a ceramide-infused serum for this step before applying moisturiser.
Glycolic Acid
This AHA is perfect for those with oily skin types, but not so much experiencing excessive dryness. Glycolic acid straight-up offers exfoliating and peeling action on the skin to remove dead skin cells and excess oil. While this may work for oily skin types, those with dry skin should especially avoid this ingredient during winter. Give up those cult-status glycolic acid toners for a gentle facial mist to tone and hydrate your skin in the winter.
Retinol
Yes, it’s true retinol is great for everything from acne to fine lines, dark spots and uneven skin tone, but a side effect of retinol is irritation, so don’t do it. Retinol is great if used in moderation on dry skin as well, and with a layer of moisturiser applied over it. But if your skin is already inflamed and irritated due to dryness, it is best to avoid this ingredient until your skin has recovered and returned to its healthy self. Try a facial oil infused with natural anti-ageing ingredients to treat and moisturise your skin instead of retinoids this season.
Benzoyl Peroxide
While dermats love recommending products with this ingredient for treating acne, if your skin is dry and has breakouts, it’s best to avoid it. This ingredient can have really negative reactions on your dry skin as it is meant to exfoliate acne and therefore can cause more peeling, itching, irritation, and redness on your already uncomfortable dry skin areas. Use niacinamide to treat acne on dry skin as it helps build skin cells rather than exfoliating them in order to promote healthy skin and banish pimples.
Hope your skin shows signs of recovery with these skin care tips.
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