Dry skin : the ultimate skincare routine

20 per cent of women say they have dry skin. It feels tight after showering or cleansing, reacts to changes in temperature, and is often sensitive and itchy. On the surface, the skin is cracked and becomes flaky and red. The complexion is dull and lacks elasticity.

Tap water contains a lot of calcium, which damages and dries out the skin. To remove make-up and cleanse gently, choose a cleansing milk or cleansing oil. Cleansing milk is gentle and hydrating, whereas cleansing oil has lipids that help reconstruct the skin barrier. Our must-have skincare product? A cleansing oil that emulsifies on the skin.

Dry skin flakes more easily than other skin types. So it also needs exfoliating. Once a week, make your own facial scrub from ground almonds and honey. The ground almonds exfoliate the skin very gently. The honey nourishes and rehydrates. Dead skin cells are removed, leaving your complexion feeling ultra soft.

Sometimes, as well as being dry, your skin becomes irritated. After cleansing, put soothing ingredients on your face; thermal water, floral water, aloe vera are all great. If your skin is in crisis, use cold cream.

Dry skin cannot retain water on its surface. Your skin needs to nourished, hydrated and filled out. Opt for creams rich in hydrating active ingredients to soothe, nourish and repair the skin. Hyaluronic acid, lactic acid and sugars are your best friends for hydrating your skin. To nourish your skin, go for vegetable oils: sweet almond, argan, apricot, jojoba... play around until you find the perfect one for you.

Use a nourishing face mask intended for dry skin at least once a week. Or try a homemade version : half an avocado and a mashed banana, mixed with two tablespoons of honey. Avocado contains vitamins A, B and E, which hydrate the skin, while honey and banana soothe and nourish.