Without proper hydration, your dermis can become dull, itchy, tight, and inflamed.

Instead, opt forgentle washesthat protect your barrier while helping remove particulate matter at the end of the day.

Theseessenceoptions are infused with humectants, oils, and other emollients so that preserveand promotethe skin’s moisture levels.

Alexandra Engler

Here are ourfavorite toners.

Now, one reason we say this is because it’s never good to tug at the skin.

Humectants are ingredients that attract and hold water in the skin, helping it stay supple throughout the day.

Apple Bodemer, M.D.

Layer on an emollient cream

However, humectants can’t do it alone.

Emollients include things like…

Check out our favoriteface creams here.

Trap it all in with an occlusive oil

The last step of your moisture-packed layering routine?

An oil, which traps in all the hydrators below it.

Take hydration-enhancing supplements

Hydration comes from the inside out as much as it does the outside in.

And there are plenty ofsupplements formulated to keep your skin hydrated, but perhaps one of our favorites isceramides.

Ceramides are polar lipids, key lipids that arenaturally present in our skin cells2.

They play a huge role in keeping your skin moisturized, glowing, and youthful.

And research shows that taking phytoceramides, or plant-derived versions, can help maintain the barrier.

This is why, among other reasons, derms encourage people to use theirmost potent actives at night.

Enter: asleep mask, the ideal treatment for those with dull, dry skin.

So often we hear how drinking water is the “secret” to some celebrity’s perennially good looks.

Invest in a humidifier

Many derms swearhumidifiersare their secret weapon for dealing with dry skin.

DIY with kitchen staples.

Skin feeling a little tight at the moment?

Don’t worry; thesealoe vera maskswill soothe them ASAP.

Need to soothe and balance irritated skin?

Thisyogurt and honey optionwill do the trick.

Or just looking to infuse skin with some fatty acids and antioxidants?

Check out our favoriteDIY masks.

But if you are feeling a bit on the drier side of late, consider upping your intake.

Check out our full list of the best foods to eat for dry skin.

The takeaway

Moisturization is the foundation for healthy skin.

Once you’ve gotten the basics down, you’ve got the option to learn how toproperly exfoliate.