Dry skin has a lack of natural oil - it is caused by your genetic make up and can be aggravated by poor skincare.
When young, the skin appears taut and fine, with very small pores and rarely suffers from spots or blackheads. The lack of oil sadly means dry skin can age prematurely and may become sensitive if not cared for. If left unprotected, dry skin may develop capillary damage. In extremely dry conditions you may develop milia and the skin loses its softness and suppleness, developing a toughened surface that does not allow products to penetrate. This can lead to a reaction of products, especially those containing active ingredients.
A healthy cared for dry skin should feel supple and soft to touch, not thin and papery.
Ageing occurs as maturity is reached, but these changes happen slowly.
The signs of ageing arrive in the mid to late twenties, which suggests the process starts in our early twenties and quickens considerably in our thirties.
Dry skin shows expression lines a lot earlier than other types, due to the lack of oil. It becomes thin and papery if uncared for.
Due to the breakdown of the natural immune defence mechanisms, it may become reactive and sensitive with a high colour.
If cared for properly, the youthfulness of this skin type is maintained and radiance and vitality enjoyed with a porcelain type look.