Characteristics:

• Uneven texture or flaky skin
• Skin feels tight - especially after cleansing or shaving
• Thin and dull skin
• Red patches
• Broken capillaries (fine red lines under the surface of the skin).
• Small pores
• Dry skin is more common within fairer skin
• Harsh conditions, such as severe cold and wind, can exaggerate these problems.

Do:

• Use mild cleansers designed for your skin type
• Use a good moisturiser at least twice a day
• Use a pre-shave oil underneath your shaving product to ensure an even smoother shave and less irritation.
• Wear a daily SPF and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, ultraviolet rays cause the skin to age prematurely and can lead to skin cancer. Dry or Sensitive skin is characteristically thin and prone to burning.
• Drink at least a litre of water a day. This will help to hydrate the skin and aid your body to function properly. Water with no, or low levels of sodium are preferred as a build up of sodium can lead to water retention and bloating.
• Engage in regular aerobic exercise (running, rowing, cycling, etc). It will help to induce sweat and oil glands into action thus helping to hydrate your skin. The increased oxygen intake will aid the skin cell renewal process, which is usually slower in dry skin.

Do Not:

• Use any alcohol based products - dry skin will have little or no excess oil for the alcohol to absorb resulting in surface dehydration; it will also cause irritation with sensitised skin.