Why Does Skin Become Dry?

Dry skin can strike for a number of reasons – some people have naturally dry skin, but others develop it due to external factors. If your skin is not naturally dry, it can become dry because of:

1. Firstly, medication (particularly anti-acne medications such as Retin A and Roaccutane)
2. Secondly, seasonal changes (especially in winter)
3. Hormonal changes
4. Washing your skin with hard water
5. Taking hot baths
6. Exposure to air-conditioning and heating
7. Finally, aging

The Difference Between Dry And Dehydrated Skin

Although many people have dry skin, others are simply dehydrated. How can you tell which is which? The main difference is that dehydrated skin lacks water, whereas dry skin lacks oil.

Skin that is dull or rough in appearance, and is tight even when properly moisturised = dehydrated skin.

Flaky skin that feels rough and dry to the touch = a sign of dryness.

Tune into the Korean Beauty Show podcast to hear more:

Best Korean Skincare Products For Dry Skin

Layering

K-Beauty is all about layering skincare products, and this works well for dry skin types. Soothe and hydrate your skin by incorporating an essence and serum into your routine.

Oil Me Up, Baby

Dry skin drinks up oil based products and for good reason – they penetrate deep into the skin and allow it to breathe.

We recommend starting with an oil-based cleanser, such as Subi Bare Skin Balm. Follow up with an oil-based serum or oil. 

Dry Lips

Korean Beauty is famous for its masks, and dry lips are no exception – treat your dry lips to their own mask, like Gelato Glaze Lip Mask, which not only plumps, softens and hydrates lips but actually improves them as well, thanks to 9 essential amino acids. 

Regular Sheet Masking

Sheet masking is a welcome treat for dry skin, particularly in winter. Just remember not to leave your mask pack on too long, or you might actually draw moisture away from your skin (which defeats the purpose!). 

An Occlusive Layer

Finish your routine with a final layer of nutrition and hydration.

Try Prevention Magazine's 2023 Best of Beauty winning sleep mask, Jelly Ko Cherry Blossom Sleeping Mask. Despite the thick jelly texture, a pea-sized layer applied to skin 30 minutes before bed is all you need to immediately hydrate, soften, plump and smooth skin. Best of all, the cooling jelly texture is perfect for soothing skin. 

Multi-tasking BB Cream

Key K-Beauty Ingredients For Dry Skin Types

Ceramides

Ceramides are our skin’s natural protection barrier. They are composed of intercellular lipids that act as skin’s defense against environmental aggressors and maintain moisture levels. Ceramides are a great addition to a dry skin routine. Perhaps Korean skincare’s most famous ceramide line is Dr Jart’s Ceramidin line.

Grape Seed Oil

This oil works its magic on all skin types, hydrating, moisturising, evening skin tone, softening lumps, bumps, and marks. Try Jelly Ko Bubble Tea Steam Cream.

Propolis Extract

This divine ingredient fights against aging skin and inflammatory skin conditions. It stimulates cellular renewal and collagen and elastin for firmer, more toned skin.

We love STYLE STORY Best of K-Beauty Award Winner Tosowoong’s Propolis Sparkle Ampoule.

Honey

Honey (AKA “Nature’s moisturiser”) is jam-packed full of amino acids and vitamins, making it perfect for dry skin. It is also a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains water.

For a honey-infusion we love Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream. 

Hyaluronic Acid

This wonder beauty ingredient retains over a 1000 times its weight in water within the cells of skin, making it an excellent moisturiser. Try Dewy Glaze Toner. 

Shop By Skin Concern

If you’re searching for Korean products for dry skin or another skin type, you can now ‘Shop By Skin Concern’. Simply click ‘Shop By Skin Concern’ for our full drop-down menu for all skin types.

Still feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what products are best for you? Don’t forget you can always contact us for free tailored recommendations for your skin type!