THE EDITORIAL TEAM REPLIES: Dry skin is often a result of a harsh skin care routine and over-washing with products that irritate and dry out the skin. Although this is done in an attempt to control excessive sebum production, it just makes matters worse because harsh treatments strip away the natural oils that protect the skin barrier and prevent water from evaporating out through the skin. As a result, the skin cells shrivel and become dry and flaky.

Try a gentler approach and experiment with proven natural acne treatments to find which one works for you. Adjust the frequency of your treatments so that you don’t overdo it.

Natural oils, such as olive oil, argan oil, grape seed and baobab oil have excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and stimulate the skin’s ability to retain moisture. They contain important nutrients such as vitamin E, carotenoids and essential fatty acids.

Olive oil can be used as a cleanser too, because it gently draws the impurities out of your skin and provides essential nutrients at the same time. Try the following for a well-nourished and smoother skin:

1. Pour a good bit of oil into your hand.
2. Rub your hands together to warm up the oil.
3. Massage the oil deep into your skin using slow firm motions. Allow the oil to soak into your pores.
4. Soak a clean washcloth in hot water.
5. Cover your face with the hot washcloth until cool to open the pores so the impurities are drawn into the oil.
6. Use the washcloth to gently wipe the oil off, and rinse it out in hot, running water. Avoid scrubbing.
7. Repeat steps 4 to 6 a total of three or four times.

UNDERSTANDING THE SKIN BARRIER

The skin's moisture barrier (stratum corneum) is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.¹ When this barrier is compromised by harsh acne treatments, it can lead to:²

• Increased trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL)
• Higher susceptibility to irritants
• Inflammation
• Paradoxical increase in oil production

GENTLE ALTERNATIVES TO CONSIDER

1. Hydrating Ingredients:³

• Hyaluronic acid: A naturally occurring substance that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water
• Glycerin: Helps attract moisture to the skin
• Ceramides: Help restore the skin barrier
• Niacinamide: Helps regulate oil production while improving barrier function

2. Natural Anti-inflammatory Options:

• Green tea compresses: Contains polyphenols that help reduce inflammation⁵
• Honey masks: Natural antibacterial properties⁶
• Aloe vera: Soothes irritation and provides hydration⁷

LIFESTYLE ADJUSTMENTS⁸

• Use lukewarm (not hot) water when washing
• Limit face washing to twice daily
• Allow skin to rest between active treatments
• Stay hydrated internally
• Consider using a humidifier in your bedroom

REBUILDING SKIN HEALTH

1. Start with a basic routine:⁹

• Gentle cleanser
• Alcohol-free toner (optional)
• Light moisturizer
• Sunscreen during the day

2. Gradually introduce treatments:

• Begin with once-weekly applications
• Increase frequency slowly based on skin tolerance
• Monitor skin response

Natural oils have shown significant benefits for skin barrier repair and maintenance.⁴ These include olive oil, argan oil, grape seed and baobab oil, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR

Seek professional help if you experience:⁹

• Severe irritation or burning
• Persistent redness
• Increased sensitivity
• Signs of infection

DIET CONSIDERATIONS

Research suggests certain dietary factors may influence skin health:¹⁰,¹¹,¹²

• Reduce refined sugars
• Include omega-3 rich foods
• Ensure adequate zinc intake
• Stay well hydrated

Remember that skin healing takes time – expect 4 to 6 weeks to see improvement when implementing a new skincare routine. If symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist for professional guidance and possible prescription treatments.

Here is an article I wrote on Natural Solutions for Acne . This article is a must-read by Klaus Ferlow on Hidden Dangers Lurking in Cosmetics.

References:

1. Draelos ZD. The science behind skin care: Moisturizers. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20(7):1988-1992.
2. Del Rosso JQ, Zeichner JA, Alexis A, et al. Understanding the Epidermal Barrier in Healthy and Compromised Skin: Clinically Relevant Information for the Dermatology Practitioner. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016;9(4 Suppl 1):S2-S8.
3. Purnamawati S, Indrastuti N, Danarti R, Saefudin T. The Role of Moisturizers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis: A Review. Clin Med Res. 2017;15(3-4):75-87.
4. Vaughn AR, Clark AK, Sivamani RK, Shi VY. Natural Oils for Skin-Barrier Repair: Ancient Compounds Now Backed by Modern Science. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(1):103-117.
5. Koch W, Zagórska J, Marzec Z, Kukula-Koch W. Applications of Tea (Camellia sinensis) and its Active Constituents in Cosmetics. Molecules. 2019;24(23):4277.
6. McLoone P, Warnock M, Fyfe L. Honey: A realistic antimicrobial for disorders of the skin. J Microbiol Immunol Infect. 2016;49(2):161-167.
7. Surjushe A, Vasani R, Saple DG. Aloe vera: a short review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008;53(4):163-166.
8. Woodruff TJ, Zota AR, Schwartz JM. Environmental Chemicals in Cosmetics: Reproductive Health Effects. Curr Epidemiol Rep. 2021;8(4):220-231.
9. Baldwin H, Aguh C, Andriessen A, et al. Atopic Dermatitis and the Role of the Skin Microbiome in Choosing Prevention, Treatment, and Maintenance Options. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(10):935-940.
10. Kober MM, Bowe WP. The effect of probiotics on immune regulation, acne, and photoaging. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2015;1(2):85-89.
11. Makrantonaki E, Ganceviciene R, Zouboulis C. An update on the role of the sebaceous gland in the pathogenesis of acne. Dermatoendocrinol. 2011;3(1):41-49.
12. Clark AK, Haas KN, Sivamani RK. Edible Plants and Their Influence on the Gut Microbiome and Acne. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;18(5):1070.