What causes dry skin?

Dry skin results from water loss in the outer layer of the skin and can be triggered by various internal and external factors.

Environmental factors: One of the most common causes of dry skin is exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Cold, windy weather, low humidity and indoor heating during the winter months can strip moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling dry and tight.

Hot water: While hot showers can feel relaxing, they can actually strip away the skin’s natural oils, which are necessary for maintaining moisture. Additionally, frequent bathing and vigorous scrubbing can worsen dryness by removing the skin's protective lipid layer.

Harsh soaps or skincare: Products containing harsh chemicals, alcohol-based toners or highly fragranced soaps can disrupt the skin’s moisture barrier, leading to dryness and irritation.

Skin type: Sensitive skin often accompanies dryness and needs gentle, hydrating care. Choose fragrance-free, soothing moisturisers to minimise the chance of irritation and protect the skin's moisture barrier.

To counteract dryness that may be caused by the above, we recommend our Skin Repair Rich Cream, which offers 72 hours of intensive hydration to lock in moisture and leave dry, stressed feeling skin looking and feeling balanced.

Key ingredients to look for in the best moisturisers for dry skin

When searching for the best moisturiser for dry skin, look for products with ingredients that can deeply hydrate and nourish your complexion. Here are some of the key ingredients to watch out for:

Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. It has the ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for replenishing dry skin and boosting hydration levels.

Glycerin: Like hyaluronic acid, glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture and locks it into the skin. It helps to create a barrier that prevents moisture loss, keeping skin soft and hydrated throughout the day.

Shea butter: This rich emollient helps to soften and smooth skin that feels dry and rough/dry, rough feeling skin. Packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins, it provides deep hydration.

Ceramides: Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids that form part of the skin’s protective barrier. When your skin lacks ceramides, it becomes more susceptible to dryness and irritation. Using a moisturiser with ceramides helps to reinforce the skin moisture barrier and retain moisture.

Botanical oils: Natural oils, such as avocado and rosehip, are rich in vitamins and minerals that deeply nourish and hydrate the skin.

Squalane: This lightweight, non-greasy oil mimics the skin’s natural oils. Squalane replenishes lost moisture, offering lasting hydration without clogging pores, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

How to choose the best moisturiser for dry skin

Choosing the best moisturiser for dry skin can make all the difference in your skincare routine. Here are some tips to help you find the right product for your needs:

Match with your skin’s needs: Identifying your skin type is important. Whether your skin is dry, sensitive or a combination of both, understanding your unique needs will guide you in selecting the most suitable moisturiser.

Consider the texture: The texture of your moisturiser plays a vital role in its effectiveness. Creams and balms tend to offer richer, creamier formulas that provide more moisture compared to lighter lotions, making them ideal for dry skin.

Avoid harsh additives: Harsh additives can further dry out or irritate your skin, making it harder to keep skin feeling hydrated and comfortable.

Liz Earle Beauty’s top picks for dry skin

Supercharged with plant-based ingredients, at Liz Earle Beauty we have a wide range of moisture-boosting products to help nourish and protect skin.

Cleanse & Polish: Looking for a cleanser that deeply cleanses without stripping the skin of essential moisture? With a bio-fusion formula, this British beauty icon effectively removes daily impurities and is scientifically proven to boost hydration after just one use. Suitable for all skin types, this indulgent cream leaves skin prepped for your moisturiser.

Superskin Moisturiser with Natural Neroli: This intensely nourishing moisturiser, scented with uplifting neroli essential oil, helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to leave skin looking plumper and smoother. Enriched with hydrating heroes including cranberry, rosehip and British borage seed oil for long lasting moisture.

Discover our full Superskin range here. Each formula is thoughtfully crafted to help enhance and maintain the brightness and feeling of skin firmness and smoothness at any age.

For more information on choosing the right moisturiser for your skin, dive into our detailed overview of our powerful products.

Tips for maximising your moisturiser’s effectiveness

To get the most out of your moisturiser, it’s essential to apply it correctly and incorporate it into your daily skincare routine. Here are some tips to help you maximise its effectiveness:

Apply moisturiser to damp skin: For optimal hydration, apply your moisturiser to slightly damp skin after cleansing.

Layer with a hydrating serum: Layer your moisturiser with a hydrating serum that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Serums are lightweight and penetrate surface of the skin deeply , providing an extra layer of hydration before locking it in with your moisturiser.

Moisturise twice a day: Be sure to stick to a regular routine for best results. Moisturise once in the morning and once in the evening before going to bed.

Choose complementary products: Use gentle cleansers and toners that won’t strip your skin’s natural oils.

Conclusion: finding the perfect moisturiser for your dry skin

Using the right moisturiser is essential to restore hydration, deeply nourish and strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier against dryness. Selecting a formula with rich, hydrating ingredients can make a visible difference in your skin’s comfort and appearance.

Explore the full Liz Earle Beauty moisturiser range to find a formula perfectly suited to your dry or sensitive skin, helping you achieve a radiant glow every day.