Dry and dehydrated skin is simply the result of a lack of water in the skin. Colder air, less humidity, hot showers, and central heat can all reduce circulation and sebum production. Skin also tends to be more dehydrated in the winter. So how do you know if what you're experiencing is hormonal dryness? Simply put, you can't.
Hormonal dryness is due to a drop in hormonal levels, specifically estrogen. Add that to collagen loss, decreased elasticity, and lack of naturally-produced Hyaluronic Acid, and you're set up for more dehydration. This is especially noticeable when the air is dry.
I would treat winter dryness, hormonal dryness, medical conditions, poor diet, and alcohol (the list is endless!) all the same; sort of a 'catch-all' and then you're sure to have really great hydrated skin!
Jennifer Kramer's Tips for Hydrated Skin:
Drink more water.
Eat more healthy fats. You can consume all the water you want but you may be lacking in oil, not water! Avocados, salmon, and other foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids all help from the inside-out.
Invest in great home-care products and *more importantly* use them consistently. If you are dry, use a gentle cleanser that doesn't strip your skin. Over-the-counter options are Ceravé, Cetaphil, or Neutrogena. Better yet, see a professional for advice! A Paramedical Esthetician who specializes in specific skin conditions is able to factor all the variables of having dry, dehydrated skin with YOUR lifestyle and can offer a more personalized approach specific to your needs. Book a Virtual Consultation with us and we'll help you get the skin you want!
Add in a topical Vitamin A once a week (or more often depending on skin type). This is known as the 'Anti-Aging' Acid. It may seem counter-intuitive but a gentle acid will unglue and detach superficial dry skin so your moisturizer can penetrate and work as intended.
Set up consistent facial treatments so the home-care skincare products you're using work even better! This also helps because as your hormone levels, seasons/climate, diet, etc. change, so should your home skincare routine. A great Paramedical Esthetician can go through your products with you during every visit and re-evaluate as-needed.
How to Treat Hormonal Dry Skin
In a nutshell, it doesn't really matter WHY you are dry; hormonal dryness, weather, etc. Just take the steps to hydrate. Your skin with thank you for it.
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