Limit washing dry skin to only once a day. The best time to wash your face is before bedtime in order to remove oil and dirt that builds up throughout the day. Massage a milky cleanser into the skin to remove dirt, makeup, and oil, and then rinse with warm water. Refrain from using hot water, since that only strips away additional moisture from the skin, leading to further drying.

Dry skin can contain layers of dead skin, which not only lead to clogging pores with oil, but also prevent absorption of rich moisturizing creams. Exfoliate with a gentle scrub once a week, and follow with the cream to keep skin from causing breakouts. Avoid skin care products or masks that dry skin further such as clay facial masks or alcohol-based cleansers and stick to creamy cleansers or gentle masks.

At least once a day, apply rich cream onto damp skin to lock in extra moisture. The best time to apply the cream is after washing your face in the evening, and in the mornings after rinsing off. Look for thicker creams meant for dry skin, since those will be better hydrating for that skin type. Look for skin care products that contain glycerin or petrolatum, which adds moisture without feeling greasy and are the best options for dry skin.

No matter what skin type you have, always try to look for products that contain SPF 15 or higher for protection. If there is a sunscreen product that is rich enough for dry skin, add the sunscreen to the top of your usual face cream. It is important to always protect the skin from harmful UV rays, to prevent aging, wrinkling and sun damage. Once a week, use a face lotion that contains retinol or alpha-hydroxy acids.

Retinol is used to stimulate collagen production, which in turn fills in lines and wrinkles for a smoother skin surface. The alpha-hydroxy acid breaks down dead skin cells, allowing for new fresher ones. With dry skin, be careful not to use the acids too much, to prevent further drying or irritation.

By using the right cleansers and exfoliation, dry skin should clear up within a week. If the condition of the skin still has not changed, it may be best to see a dermatologist for a prescription moisture cream, or any advice on a skin care product. If your skin goes from dry to oily, or continues to have outbreaks, see a professional to determine if any other life factors may be contributing to skin dryness. Winter weather can often lead to more dry skin, and too much sun exposure can also lead to cracking and peeling of the skin.