Apart from following a skincare routine for dry skin, there are a few other things you can do to manage dryness.
Drink more water
“It comes across as a cliché, but it helps to drink water!” Dr. Hartman says. “When your body is hydrated, skin looks better too.” The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that women consume about nine cups of water per day and that men consume about 13 cups of water per day, though the exact amount varies due to age, activity level, and overall health.
Invest in a humidifier
Running a humidifier increases the amount of humidity or moisture in the air, resulting in less transepidermal water loss (TEWL) from the skin, which can do wonders for managing dry skin, says Dr. Lal. He recommends letting the humidifier run in your bedroom while you sleep so that the moist air can help hydrate your skin overnight.
Trap water into the skin
Dr. Lal suggests using a thermal spring water spray during your skincare routine, specifically before applying moisturizer to “help seal in moisture and hydration.” He recommends the Avène Thermal Spring Water, but lots of brands make similar mineral-rich facial mists.
Try a hydrocortisone cream If you’re having a particularly difficult time managing dry, flaky skin, Dr. Lal suggests picking up a 1% hydrocortisone ointment, which is anti-inflammatory, and applying it to the skin to manage symptoms. “You can use it twice per day until you’re completely clear and slowly taper to using it one to two times per week as needed,” Dr. Lal explains. “If you need something stronger than that, then it’s time to see the dermatologist.”
