Want to fix dry, flaky skin without spending a fortune? This step-by-step affordable skincare routine for dry, sensitive skin features dermatologist-approved products and drugstore-friendly hydrating heroes.
Why Skincare Matters for Dry Skin
Dry skin isn’t just about feeling tight—it can lead to premature aging, rough texture, irritation, and a lackluster complexion. A proper skincare routine helps:
- Strengthen the skin barrier
- Lock in long-term hydration
- Improve texture, tone, and elasticity
- Prepare skin for better makeup application
Now, let’s dive into daily glow-up ritual…
Step 1: Cleanse — Clear Skin Starts Here
Why this step matters:
Cleansing removes sweat, excess oil, environmental toxins, and makeup. For dry skin, the goal is to clean without disrupting the skin’s protective lipid barrier. Over-cleansing or using harsh formulas can lead to more dryness and inflammation.
I like to use Kylie Skin Foaming Face Wash – it really cleanse and doesn’t dry my skin.
This sulfate-free, pH-balanced face wash keeps skin clean without that dreaded tight, squeaky feeling. Gentle enough for sensitive skin and great for AM/PM use.
Buy Kylie Skin Foaming Face Wash here.
Skin Science Tip: Over-cleansing can cause a rebound effect where skin produces even less oil—creating more dryness.
Step 2: Tone — Balance, Soothe & Hydrate
Why this step matters:
Modern toners are nothing like the alcohol-laden ones of the past. A good toner restores pH after cleansing, calms irritation, and acts as a hydration booster. It also helps prep skin for better penetration of serums and moisturizers.
I’m obsessed with Kylie Skin Vanilla Milk Toner! It helps to cleanse skin as a second step and also hydrates. Smells amazing!
Buy Kylie Skin Vanilla Milk Toner here.
Pro Tip: Apply with your hands instead of a cotton pad to avoid product waste and friction on sensitive skin.
Step 3: Serum — Deliver Potent Hydration
Why this step matters:
Serums are lightweight yet powerful. Hyaluronic acid is a hydration magnet, pulling water into the skin from your environment and from deeper layers of the skin. This helps plump fine lines, smooth texture, and improve radiance.
My favorite serum is La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum. But my tip – don’t apply too mush if you don’t like sticky skin.
Why this product works:
Dual-molecular hyaluronic acid ensures both surface and deeper hydration, while Vitamin B5 repairs and calms dry, reactive skin.
And one more favorite product of La Roche-Posay is Effaclar Duo+M: Anti-Imperfections Triple Corrective Gel Moisturizer. It moisturizes your skin and helps with post acne after first apply!
For the UK – Buy La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum here.
For the US – Buy La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum here.
For the UK – Buy La Roche-Posay is Effaclar Duo+M: Anti-Imperfections Triple Corrective Gel Moisturizer here.
Hydration Hack: Always apply hyaluronic acid on slightly damp skin and seal it in with a moisturizer to avoid moisture evaporation.
Step 4: Treat — Target Dullness with Vitamin C
Why this step matters:
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that fights free radicals, boosts collagen, and evens out skin tone. For dry skin, it adds brightness and smoothness, giving a healthy glow and fighting signs of fatigue.
One of my favorite Vitamin C Serums is Kylie Skin Vitamin C Serum. I like the texture and it smells a bit smoky.
Why this product works:
This serum is lightweight, non-sticky, and ideal for layering with other hydrating ingredients—great for beginner-friendly Vitamin C use.
Buy Kylie Skin Vitamin C Serum here.
Brightening Tip: Use Vitamin C in the morning to protect against daily environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure.
Step 5: Eye Cream — Care for the Delicate Zone
Why this step matters:
The skin around your eyes is 10x thinner than the rest of your face. It’s more prone to dryness, fine lines, and puffiness. A targeted eye cream helps retain moisture and support elasticity in this fragile area.
I also use Kylie Skin Eye Cream. It helps to reduce dark circles after 1-2 applies.
Why this product works:
Formulated with shea butter and jojoba seed oil, plus Vitamin C for brightness. It layers well under concealer without creasing.
Buy Kylie Skin Eye Cream here.
Application Tip: Use your ring finger and pat gently—never rub.
Step 6: Moisturize — Lock In & Rebuild
Why this step matters:
A good moisturizer does more than just hydrate—it prevents water loss, protects against external irritants, and restores your natural lipid barrier. This is the most critical step in any dry skin routine.
I love Byoma Moisturising Rich Cream – it is not sticky and really rich and moisturizing!
Why this product works:
With barrier-repairing ceramides, ultra-hydrating squalane, and nourishing shea extract, this rich cream gives long-lasting comfort and glow without feeling greasy.
For better results I use Byoma Brightening Serum – it helps significantly improve skin’s tone and texture for even, glowing results.
For the UK – Buy Byoma Moisturising Rich Cream here.
For the UK – Buy Byoma Brightening Serum here.
Layering Tip: After applying moisturizer, wait 5–10 minutes before SPF or makeup to allow it to absorb.
Step 7: Gua Sha — Circulation, Glow & Self-Care
Why this step matters:
Facial massage with a Gua Sha improves lymphatic drainage, blood flow, and product absorption. It’s like yoga for your face—relieves tension, reduces puffiness, and supports skin elasticity over time.
I use SEPHORA COLLECTION Rose Quartz Gua Sha.
Why Gua Sha works:
Cool rose quartz glides gently over the skin, helping to visibly lift and contour with regular use.
For the UK – Buy SEPHORA COLLECTION Rose Quartz Gua Sha Tool here.
For the US – Buy SEPHORA COLLECTION Rose Quartz Gua Sha Tool here.
🔍 Massage Tip: Use gentle strokes upward and outward. Never drag the tool without lubricant—always use with moisturizer or oil.
BONUS: Prime — The Makeup-Skincare Bridge
Why this step matters:
A great primer for dry skin adds a final layer of moisture, smooths texture, and creates a perfect canvas for makeup. It prevents foundation from clinging to dry patches or looking cakey.
I’m obsessed with Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base. I use it every day! It’s like butter but with silky finish. Have a citrusy scent, literally obsessed with it and repurchase all the time!
Why this product works:
This cult-favorite is a moisturizer-primer hybrid with shea butter and vitamins B, C, and E. Rich but fast-absorbing, it leaves skin bouncy and fresh.
For the UK – Buy Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base here.
For the US – Buy Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base here.
Makeup Prep Tip: Use a pea-sized amount and press into skin with fingertips—don’t rub.
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