Moisturizing is supposed to make your skin feel supple, soft, and hydrated. If this skincare step, however, has the opposite effect on your skin, there are a few things to blame. The product you’re using and your technique might be the culprit or it could also be due to your habits and other contributing factors.

Continue reading as we explore the possible reasons for dry or tight skin feeling after moisturizing.

You’re using the wrong type of moisturizer.

Not all face moisturizers are right for every skin type. If you, for instance, are prone to having dry skin, you may benefit from a thicker formula than those with oily or blemish-prone skin type. A product formulated for dry skin may contain ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. 

You’re using a harsh cleanser or over-cleansing your face. 

Harsh soaps and cleansers can dry out and irritate your face, contributing to that dry and tight feeling. This is especially true for those that contain benzyl and isopropyl alcohols, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. Mild face cleansers are a good choice, as well as creamy cleansers that work to calm and hydrate the skin. 

If you, on the other hand, are using a mild cleanser but notice a tight or dry feeling, it could be due to over-washing. Doing so can strip your skin of its natural oils which may result in dryness and irritation. A squeaky-clean feeling shouldn’t be the goal after cleansing, as it may be a sign that your skin barrier is damaged or impaired. 

Dr. Sylvia Skin Care’s Sensitive Cleanser with Aloe Leaf Water is ideal for very dry or sensitive skin. It is a creamy, rinse-off facial cleanser that contains soothing ingredients and gently cleanses the skin without overstripping it. It is also formulated with aloe leaf water to hydrate and soothe the skin. 

You are not using enough moisturizer

The reason for a dry feeling after moisturizing could be as simple as not using enough of the product. If you’re skimping on face moisturizer, you may not be fully protecting and hydrating your skin. A nickel size amount is recommended (both in the morning and at night) to reap the product’s intended benefits. 

Your moisturizer might be expired

All skincare products have an expiration date. And just because they don’t look or smell bad doesn’t mean that they are still okay to apply on your face. Applying a moisturizer that’s past its expiration date may not be able to hydrate your skin or lock in moisture. Some of them may also harbor bacteria that can cause irritation. 

Make sure to always check for expiration dates or see the packaging for an image that looks like a tiny jar with its lid open with a number followed by the letter “M”. This indicates the number of months or how long the product remains stable after opening it. And if the moisturizer has been open for two years, it is best to throw it away. 

You’re not exfoliating

Dead skin cells and bacteria can accumulate on your skin over time, which may then contribute to dryness and flakiness even after moisturizing. Exfoliating can help remove these cells, as well as improve the texture of your skin. This also allows skin care products to penetrate deeper and improve their effectiveness. 

Dr. Sylvia’s AHA Resurfacing Serum has organic acids that can exfoliate and renew the skin. It gently exfoliates the surface of the skin, as well as improves skin texture, dark spots, and visible signs of aging. AHAs are water-soluble acids that are usually recommended for dry, aging, and sun-damaged skin. 

Other contributing factors

A few other factors that can contribute to dry skin include:

• Aging – skin becomes thinner and drier as we age, resulting in creases and wrinkles.
• Hot baths or showers – hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, resulting in itching and dryness.
• Harsh weather – cold, dry air can cause moisture loss in the skin, leading to dryness or flakiness. 
• Genetics – dry skin can be inherited, with some being more prone to it because of genetics. 
• Medical conditions or skin issues – eczema, psoriasis, and certain medical conditions can cause dry skin and similar symptoms such as flaking and itching. 

Don’t let your moisturizer or skincare routine work against your favor. Browse through our website today for more product recommendations or contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore and schedule a consultation with one of our aesthetic doctors to find out how we can achieve your beauty and skincare goals.