Dry skin is more than a cosmetic concern — it can be uncomfortable, itchy, and over time, can weaken your skin’s protective barrier. The good news is that with the right moisturiser and a consistent routine, most dry skin can be transformed. This guide walks you through the best approach to moisturising dry skin, with a focus on the power of plant-based body butters.
Why Is My Skin So Dry?
Dry skin (xerosis) occurs when the skin lacks sufficient moisture in its outer layer (the stratum corneum). Common causes include:
- Cold or low-humidity weather
- Frequent bathing in hot water
- Harsh soaps and detergents that strip natural oils
- Central heating and air conditioning
- Ageing — as we get older, skin produces fewer natural oils
- Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
Lotion vs. Cream vs. Body Butter: What’s the Difference?
Not all moisturisers are equal. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Lotions — lightweight, mostly water. Good for normal or oily skin but often insufficient for dry skin.
- Creams — thicker than lotions, a balance of water and oil. Suitable for moderate dryness.
- Body butters — water-free, concentrated plant oils and butters. Ideal for very dry, rough, or eczema-prone skin. They provide deep, long-lasting nourishment and create an effective moisture-sealing layer.
Key Ingredients That Combat Dry Skin
- Shea butter — rich in vitamins A and E, and essential fatty acids. One of the most effective natural emollients available.
- Mango butter — lightweight yet intensely hydrating; high in stearic and oleic acids that soften rough skin.
- Jojoba oil — structurally similar to the skin’s own sebum; absorbs quickly and balances moisture levels.
- Sweet almond oil — high in vitamin E and omega-9; soothes, softens, and reduces flaking.
Step-by-Step: How to Moisturise Dry Skin Properly
- Cleanse gently. Use a mild, soap-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which strips the skin’s natural oils.
- Pat — don’t rub — dry. Leave a little moisture on the skin surface.
- Apply within 3 minutes. This is the "soak and seal" window — your skin is most receptive immediately after washing.
- Use a generous amount. For body butter, a small amount goes a long way — warm between your palms first, then massage in.
- Focus on problem areas. Elbows, knees, heels, and shins are especially prone to dryness.
- Repeat twice daily. Morning and evening for best results, especially in winter months.
Our Pick for Very Dry Skin
Our Fragrance-Free Body Butter is handcrafted with unrefined shea butter, mango butter, and nourishing plant oils — without any water, fillers, or synthetic fragrance. It’s an ideal choice for skin that needs real, deep hydration without irritation.
For dry skin with additional concerns around signs of ageing, our Frankincense & Rosehip Body Butter combines intensely moisturising butters with the regenerative properties of rosehip oil and the firming benefits of frankincense — perfect for mature or dry skin.
Tips for Long-Term Skin Hydration
- Drink plenty of water — hydration starts from within.
- Use a humidifier in winter to counteract dry indoor air.
- Wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton next to your skin.
- Avoid long, hot baths or showers.
- Exfoliate gently once a week to remove dead skin cells and improve moisturiser absorption.