Myth-Busting Dry Hair & Skin: What You Really Need to Know
If you struggle with dry hair or skin, you’re not alone. With so much conflicting advice out there, it’s easy to feel frustrated or stuck in an endless cycle of trying new products that just don’t work. Here we bust the biggest myths about dry skin and the give you the knowledge to care for your skin and hair the right way!
Myth 1: Dry Skin and Sensitive Skin Are the Same Thing
Not quite! Dry skin lacks oil, while sensitive skin is more about how reactive it is to ingredients or environmental factors. You can have dry skin that isn’t sensitive or sensitive skin that isn’t dry. The key is choosing gentle, nourishing ingredients that support your skin barrier rather than strip it. Avoid synthetic fragrances, harsh sulfates, and alcohol-based formulas.
Myth 2: You Need a Complicated 10-Step Routine to Fix Dry Skin
Less is more! Overloading your skin with too many products can weaken your natural moisture barrier, leading to even more dryness and irritation. A simple, effective routine with a nourishing cleansing balm and a hydrating moisturiser is all you need. Look for ingredients like shea butter, oat extract, and natural oils to keep skin soft and happy.
Myth 3: Washing Your Hair Less Often Will Fix Dryness
Skipping washes won’t magically make your hair more hydrated—especially if buildup from styling products and pollution is blocking moisture from getting in. Instead, use a shampoo bar with gentle, sulfate-free cleansers that clean without stripping natural oils. Our solid shampoo for balanced to dry hair helps refresh the scalp while keeping hair hydrated and healthy.
Myth 4: Lather Equals Clean
We’ve been conditioned (pun intended!) to believe that lots of bubbles mean a better clean. But those big, foamy lathers often come from sulfates, which can strip away natural oils and make dry hair and skin even worse. Our body washes and shampoos use ocean-friendly, non-synthetic ingredients to cleanse gently while maintaining hydration.
Myth 5: If Your Skin Feels Tight After Washing, It’s Super Clean
That squeaky-clean feeling? It’s a sign your skin is dehydrated. A good cleanser should leave your skin feeling soft and comfortable, not tight or dry. Our nourishing cleansing balm is made with shea & cocoa butter and melts away dirt and makeup without disrupting your skin’s natural balance.
Myth 6: Skin Get Drier as You Age.
Yes! This one is true. As we age, our skin naturally produces less oil and loses moisture more easily. The skin barrier becomes thinner, making it harder to retain hydration. Collagen and elastin levels also decline over time, reducing the skin’s ability to stay plump and supple. This is why mature skin often feels drier and more delicate.
To combat this, it’s essential to focus on hydration and nourishment. Look for products rich in natural butters, oils, and humectants like glycerin (which occurs naturally in cold processed soap like our body wash) or hyaluronic acid to help lock in moisture and keep skin feeling soft and resilient.
Environmental Factors That Can Make Your Dry Skin Worse
Dry skin isn’t just about what products you use—it’s also affected by where and when you spend your time. Here are some environmental factors that can make matters worse:
- Cold Weather: Low temperatures and harsh winds strip moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling rough and tight. Protective layers and a good moisturiser help combat this.
- Indoor Heating & Air Conditioning: Both can sap humidity from the air, making skin drier. Using a humidifier indoors can help maintain moisture levels.
- Hot Showers & Baths: While tempting, long, hot showers can strip your skin of its natural oils. Lukewarm water is a better option.
- Sun Exposure: UV rays damage the skin barrier and dehydrate skin. Always wear SPF and opt for natural, non-toxic sun protection.
- High Altitudes: The air gets drier at higher elevations, which can lead to increased moisture loss from the skin.
- Pollution: Environmental pollutants can weaken the skin barrier and lead to dryness. A gentle but effective cleansing routine helps remove impurities without over-drying.
- Saltwater & Chlorine: Swimming in the ocean or a chlorinated pool can dehydrate skin and hair. Rinsing off and applying a moisturizer afterward can help.
The Bottom Line
Caring for dry hair and skin doesn’t have to be complicated. Choose gentle, sustainable products, avoid harsh ingredients, and listen to what your body needs. With the right approach, you can ditch the myths and embrace healthy, happy skin and hair!
You may want to try our Cleansing Balm and our Soothing Meadow Shampoo Bar
