Skincare — Dryness
Dry skin on face: causes and how to fix it.
Tight, flaky or rough patches on your face? Here is what causes dry skin on the face and a simple routine to repair it — fast.
6 minute read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
Causes
What causes dry skin on the face?
Cold UK weather and central heating
Low humidity pulls water out of skin, especially in winter.
Hard water
Common across London and the south-east, it leaves minerals that dry skin.
Harsh cleansers
Foaming washes and hot water strip natural oils.
Over-exfoliating
Too many acids or retinol too often damages the barrier.
Routine
How to fix dry skin on your face
1. Cleanse gently
Use a cream or milk cleanser and lukewarm water.
2. Apply on damp skin
Pat on a hyaluronic acid or glycerin serum while skin is still damp.
3. Moisturise with ceramides
Ceramides, shea butter and squalane rebuild the barrier.
4. Seal dry patches
A thin layer of balm or petrolatum on flaky spots overnight.
5. Wear SPF
Sun damage weakens the barrier further.
Avoid
What to avoid
Fragrance and alcohol
Both can sting and dry sensitive, dry skin.
Scrubs
Gritty scrubs worsen flaking — use mild lactic acid once a week instead.
Help
When to see a GP
See a GP if dry patches are red, itchy, scaly or spreading — it could be eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis, which need specific treatment.
