Normal - Dry Skin

Normal to dry skin: the type that changes with the seasons

Normal to dry is the most common skin type in Greece and at the same time the most misunderstood, because it doesn't behave the same all year round. In July it looks perfectly balanced. In January, with heating, cold air and hot showers, it shows roughness on the cheekbones and makeup starts to sit in fine lines. You haven't changed skin type, you've changed conditions.

The practical way to find out if you belong here is the twenty-minute test. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and don't put anything on. If after twenty minutes you feel a slight pull on the cheeks while the nose and forehead look normal, you are in this category. If the pull is strong and there are flakes, the need is greater and the section for very dry skin is more suitable.

Which texture works best

Here you have the privilege of choice, which does not apply to extreme skin types. The classic medium-thickness cream covers most days. Sorbet and cream-gel textures are ideal for the morning, because they absorb quickly and accept makeup without making a mess. Richer night creams give time for lipids to work without the shine bothering. A combination of a light morning and a rich evening formula suits this type better than any single solution.

What to look for in the composition

• Hyaluronic acid in different molecular weights: gives an immediate feeling of full skin and improves the appearance of dehydration lines.
• Glycerin: the stable base of every reliable formula, works even in low humidity.
• Squalane: a light emollient that softens the surface without weighing down.
• Prebiotic and probiotic ingredients: support the balance of the surface microbiome.
• Vitamin E and plant oils in moderate proportion: enough for nourishment, not so much as to shine the face.
• 48-hour hydration index: shows duration in lab conditions, not that you can skip an application.

Series preferred by customers

The Bepanthol is by far the most requested choice in this need, with a simple composition and large packaging. Following are the Frezyderm Moisturizing in age versions, the Avene Hydrance and the URIAGE Eau Thermale based on thermal mineral water, as well as the Apivita Aqua Beelicious for those who want a cooler sensation. The Korres Goat's Milk covers dry and dehydrated skin at an affordable price, while the Caudalie VinoHydra and the Nuxe Creme Fraiche are the options with the most pronounced sensory character. For greater need of lipids, the Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin and the NEOSTRATA Bionic work with ceramides and polyhydroxy acids respectively.

How to adjust the routine over time

Don't change cream every time the skin shows a sign of dryness. Change the cleanser first, because almost always that's where the problem starts. Then add a step of hydration before the cream, like a toner lotion or serum, so the cream has something to seal. The third step is increasing the density only for the evening application. If the T-zone starts to shine while the cheeks remain dry, check the category for normal to combination skin. The broader context is on the page of face moisturizers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need serum if I already have a good cream?

Not necessarily. Serum helps when you have a specific goal, like radiance or even tone. For sheer hydration, a well-chosen cream suffices.

My skin shines at noon but pulls in the morning. What's wrong?

Usually too rich a morning texture combined with dehydration. Try a lighter formula in the morning and keep the rich one for the evening.

Do I need to change cream every few months?

No for tolerance reasons, the skin doesn't get used to a formula. Change only makes sense when needs change, for example with the season, pregnancy or new treatment.

Can I use the same cream around the eyes?

Yes, provided the formula states it and doesn't contain strong actives. The area is thinner, so a small amount with gentle pats is enough.

The information on this page is informative and concerns cosmetic products. It does not replace the advice of a dermatologist or pharmacist.