How to Keep Your Skin Happy in Dry Climates

Layer hydration, seal everything, and treat your skin barrier like the precious thing it is.

Your skin is not broken, it's just thirsty—give it water, lock it in, and stop overthinking it.

1. Switch to a cream cleanser. Foaming cleansers strip oils your skin desperately needs in dry air. A cream or oil cleanser removes makeup and dirt without leaving your face feeling tight. Your skin should never feel squeaky clean.
2. Apply serums to damp skin. Pat a hydrating serum onto slightly wet skin right after cleansing. The water helps the serum penetrate and gives you an extra layer of moisture. Look for hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
3. Use a heavier moisturizer. Your usual lightweight lotion won't cut it in desert air. Switch to something with ceramides, shea butter, or squalane that actually creates a protective barrier. Apply while your serum is still slightly tacky.
4. Add a facial oil at night. A few drops of facial oil as your final step seals everything in while you sleep. Jojoba, rosehip, or marula work well for most skin types and won't clog pores.
5. Humidify your space. A small humidifier in your bedroom adds moisture back to the air while you sleep. Even a bowl of water near your bed helps, though it's less elegant.