Basic Routine for Dry Skin — How to Layer Moisture
For dry skin, the key is to strip away less when cleansing and seal in moisture well when applying products.
Dry Skin Routine
Morning
- Rinse with lukewarm water (or use a gentle cream cleanser)
- 2 layers of hydrating toner
- Hyaluronic acid serum
- Ceramide cream
- Hydrating sunscreen
Evening
- Cleansing balm
- Gentle cleanser
- Hydrating toner
- Serum
- Rich cream + balm on dry areas
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For a dry-skin routine, the key is not layering lots of products, but keeping cleansing short and gentle, applying moisturizer while your skin is still damp, and covering it as much as needed at the end.
In the morning, rinse with lukewarm water only or use a gentle cleanser briefly, then apply moisturizer while your skin is slightly damp. Apply sunscreen as the final step during the day. In the evening, remove sunscreen with a gentle cleanser, apply a generous amount of moisturizer, and add a thin layer of an occlusive such as petrolatum only to especially dry areas.
On ingredient lists, look for glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which attract moisture, and ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, which replenish barrier lipids. Layering toner is not essential, and if your skin feels tight or stings afterward, it’s better to cut back on steps. It’s also fine to take a break from products containing exfoliating ingredients or fragrance on dry days. If you suddenly develop severe redness or persistent stinging, get it checked by a dermatologist.