Ask ten people about home remedies for dry skin and you'll get ten different answers. And this also depends on the latest studies and advancements of course, many of which involve harsh chemicals.
After all, in the early 1900s they used Radium in skin creams which provided, eh em, an extra glow -- but not the kind you want.
Before the internet, you'd have to test all of your skincare recommendations using the trial and error method or trusting the word of mouth. This works, but it's a tedious process and can cost quite a bit of money or can lead you down the completely wrong path of fads and potentially harmful treatments.
Fortunately, the internet allows us to have open discussions about skincare and so much more.
There's no better forum for talking about skincare than Reddit's Skincare Addiction: real answers from real people.
We took a look at a few Skincare Addiction threads for dry skin and these are the best solutions we found – some of them might just surprise you.
The Best Home Remedies for Dry Skin According to Reddit Users
Dry skin is frustrating – and often painful.
When you're young, dry itchy skin is a nuisance. As you age, however, dry skin can make you look considerably older than you actually are. And we don't want that...
What's the trick to achieving a youthful appearance?
Properly Hydrated Skin
It gives you a nice glow and plump appearance. Here are the best home remedies for dry skin according to the Reddit Skincare Addiction community.
1. Consume Plenty of Water
Like all Reddit communities, not everyone agrees on everything 100 per cent of the time. One thing everyone does seem to agree on, however, is that the best solution for dry skin is staying hydrated.
Each person requires different amounts of water and it's not easy to find your sweet spot.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there isn't an ideal number but there are some recommendations from the National Academies of Sciences and Engineering Medicine.
Women should consume about 91 ounces each day while men need 125 ounces. Remember that not your entire daily water intake needs to come straight from a bottle. You can get water from plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other foods as well.
2. Hemp Seed Oil
Reddit user ticklytiger recommends putting hemp seed oil on top of your moisturiser. This oil does not contain THC so you can buy it just about anywhere. It does, however, contain potent properties to make your skin plump, smooth, and soft.
In fact, hemp is one of the best facial oils because it doesn't clog pores but calms skin naturally. Not to mention: it's great for all skin types.
3. Run a Humidifier
You can only put so much water into your body. It's actually possible – and very dangerous – to consume too much water. So, what else can you do to help your skin?
Get a humidifier and run it as much as possible. Where do you spend most of your time? Chances are the air at your work is pretty dry. Hook up a humidifier near your desk or work station if possible.
4. CeraVe
When it comes to home remedies for dry skin, Reddit says you can't go wrong with classic CeraVe. This moisturiser offers both an AM and PM version so lather up twice (and more) each day.
It's important to remember that sun protection is crucial for preventing numerous skin ailments. The sun can also dry out your skin. Fortunately, CeraVe includes strong SPF protection to keep you covered.
5. Oil-based Moisturisers and Cleansers
If your skin is chronically dry, chances are you've been using the wrong cleanser and moisturiser for ages. Reddit recommends using oil-based products because other varieties tend to dry out your skin.
6. Layer, Layer, Layer!
Believe it or not, one layer of moisturiser may not be enough – especially if your skin is routinely dry. Layer up!
Reddit user scrambledeggs says using a hydrating toner with hyaluronic acid followed by multiple layers of moisturiser worked to solve their persistent dry skin problem. Try using a variety of moisturisers with different ingredients. But try to keep it natural!
7. Skip the Hot Showers
Hot showers feel amazing but they're also terrible for skin. This is one of many home remedies for dry skin that doesn't take much time, money, or effort to accomplish. In fact, you'll save on hot water. Instead, go for a lukewarm shower – your skin will thank you.
If your skin is red post-shower, your water is too hot. If your hair has lost its shine, this could also be the culprit. Even making the switch a few days each week can make a big difference.
8. Vaseline – Yes, Vaseline
Good ole' Vaseline to the rescue. Although it’s viscous texture makes petroleum jelly seem like it can clog pores -- it's actually good for your skin because it locks in moisture.
It's probably best to use this remedy for dry skin at night because you don't want to walk around with a shiny face all day. After applying your regular moisturiser, add a layer of Vaseline. But remember, when you rate natural applications like beeswax vs. petroleum-based jelly, natural wins in a big way.
9. eltaMD UV Facial
A Reddit user whose profile has since been deleted said they have used eltaMD UV Facial for years. This product is specifically designed for dry and post-procedure skin.
Skin is extremely prone to sun damage and other elements after chemical peels and other procedures. This product has a creamy consistency and an SPF of 30+ so it's got you covered for both sun and dry skin protection.
10. Mānuka
Some Reddit users swear by mānuka honey for all skin problems from dry skin to the prevention of acne. Honey, in general, contains antibacterial properties. The mānuka variety, however, contains even more skin soothing factors.
You don't need to put sticky honey on your face or shell out big bucks for mānuka any longer. Now, you can buy mānuka essential oil and ointments – the same dry skin fighting properties for a fraction of the price. This recent skincare discover has shown that East Cape mānuka oil is 1,000 times more powerful than mānuka honey and makes for a potent skincare ally.
Take control of your dry skin, try our revolutionary East Cape Mānuka Dry Skin Oil today!