Want to know how to get rid of dry patches on your face? We'll show you in just five easy and effective steps!
The skin is the largest organ in the body, serving as our first line of defense, and it warns us through various reactions that something is not okay and we need to fix it.
While sometimes you may not be able to eliminate the problem completely, especially if external factors like bad weather are causing your skin to react, creating rough patches on cheeks or dry patches around the nose, for example, you can certainly improve it by following some of our proven tips.
Even though dry skin most often occurs in winter, it can be experienced any month of the year, and dry patches on the face are very common as this is an area that is usually more exposed to the elements. Unfortunately, applying makeup can irritate your skin or even make the problem worse, so how can you get rid of dry rough patches on your face to achieve smooth, glowing skin?

What Causes Dry Spots On Your Face?

The sebum released by the skin keeps it soft, smooth, and elastic, so if you experience a low production level, it will cause dry skin to develop. Patchy dry skin on the face can appear darker or lighter than your normal complexion and may also be blue, purple, or red in color, sometimes feeling tender, itchy, and scaly. Here are the causes of dry patches on the face and how to deal with them.

Cause #1 - Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a condition where the skin blisters, and becomes cracked, itchy, and swollen. Factors that contribute to eczema are often genetic or environmental, and eczema may be triggered by irritants, microbes, cold or hot temperatures, hormones, certain foods, allergens, and stress. This skin condition can affect many areas of the body, such as behind the knees, the inside of the elbows, the scalp, and also the face, and if you suspect that you have it, see a dermatologist for a precise diagnosis and treatment.

Cause #2 - Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that mainly affects the scalp but can also be found in areas like the eyebrows, ears, and eyelids. There can be many possible causes for this condition, including a reaction to a substance naturally found on the skin called Malassezia yeast, and it can be triggered by several different factors, including stress and cold weather. 

Cause #3 - Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is, as the name suggests, caused when the skin comes into contact with something that irritates it or causes an allergic reaction, which can include facial creams, soaps, perfumes, and detergents. While its appearance is similar to eczema, with the skin appearing dry, itchy, and blistered, it is not transmissible and usually goes away on its own once the substance causing it has been identified and removed. 

Cause #4 - Psoriasis

Psoriasis can also be a cause of dry patches near the mouth and other areas of the body. It is one of the most persistent skin disorders, which generally occurs on the scalp, elbows, knees, palms, torso, soles, and face. Psoriasis can range from mild to severe and the symptoms include red skin patches and painful, itchy scales. 

Cause #5 - Poor Nutrition

While poor nutrition isn’t usually solely responsible for problems with the skin, it can be a contributing factor, particularly if it is ongoing. If you find that you have dry patches on your face that won't go away, it may be time to make some dietary changes such as cutting down on salty, processed foods and increasing your intake of healthy fats such as those found in avocados and olive oil.
Now that you know some of the possible causes of a dry patchy face, read on for some very effective solutions!

How To Get Rid Of The Dry Patches On Your Face

There are several steps you can take that will help get rid of dryness, whether it appears as dry patches on the nose, cheeks, or other areas of the face. These solutions are specific to the cause of dry skin on your face and are suitable for all skin types - oily, combination, normal or dry.

Step #1 - Moisturize often

No matter what causes your dry skin, a targeted skincare regimen that includes a good quality moisturizer will restore your skin's suppleness and glow. Adding Infusoderm to your daily routine will ensure that the skin is receiving the hydration it requires to prevent or reduce dry patches, and thanks to the inclusion of antioxidants, it remains free from harmful oxidative stress.
 

Step #2 - Exfoliate

Certain lifestyle habits, such as drinking adequate amounts of water every day, can keep the skin healthy and reduce the risk of developing dry patches on the face. However, incorporating exfoliation into your skincare routine will provide additional benefits by removing dead skin cells from the epidermis and help its renewal process. How often you exfoliate depends on your skin type but for dry skin, once or twice a week is generally sufficient, and using products contained in our Advanced Exfoliating System will ensure that you get the results you want quickly and safely.

Step #3 - Use a humidifier inside your house

Dry air, whether it’s the climate you live in or caused by your home’s heating system, is one of the main culprits for developing dry skin. Fortunately, it can be relatively easily remedied by using a humidifier to increase levels of moisture in the air. 

Step #4 - Pat face dry

After washing your face, do not scrub or rub your skin aggressively to dry it. Instead, with a soft towel that you only use for your face, pat your skin to gently remove excess moisture. 

Step #5 - Visit a doctor if needed

Dry patches on the skin will often get better if you follow our recommended steps. However, some conditions require medical attention, so visit your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:


  • Inflamed or bleeding blisters
  • Severely dry skin that lasts for an extended period and doesn’t respond to moisturizing products
  • Thickened layers of skin
  • Severe dandruff and hair loss
  • Discoloration of the nails
  • Joint pain

How To Prevent Dry Patches On Your Face

Strictly adhere to the following tips if you want to prevent dry patches on your face:

Recommendation #1 - Keep your shower short

Long, hot showers can strip the natural oil in your skin, leaving it dry and flaky. Make a point of reducing your shower time to ten minutes at the very most and lowering the temperature of the water, without it being uncomfortably cold.

Recommendation #2 - Have a healthy skin routine

A healthy skincare routine will give your skin the nutrients it needs on a daily basis and proper levels of hydration to keep dryness at bay. While some skincare regimens include multiple steps, a simple routine that covers all the bases - cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and any targeted treatments for specific skin concerns - is often just as effective. 

Recommendation #3 - Protect your skin when going outside

Sun protection is essential for all skin types, but if you already have dry patches on your face it can help prevent the problem from becoming more severe. You must always protect your skin from the sun all year round, as even on overcast days it is exposed to solar radiation. Apply our hydrating SPF30 daily moisturizer, Dermaxsol, generously to your skin every day and you’ll enjoy both sun protection and a soft, smooth complexion. 

Recommendation #4 - Manage your stress

Your skin and your nervous system are connected which is why when you are stressed, you may experience frequent breakouts and other unwelcome skin issues. Self-care is as essential as your skincare, so make sure you take time in your day to check in on your stress levels, breathe deeply, and if you can, spend five or ten minutes practicing meditation. 

Recommendation #5 - Avoid scratching your skin

If you are struggling with dry, rough patches on your face, don’t give in to the temptation to scratch them if they become itchy. This can cause damage to your skin, causing micro-tears and increasing the risk of infections and future scarring.

FAQ

Question #1 - What are white dry patches on your face?

White dry patches on your face can be due to several factors and while they shouldn't be a cause for concern, if they persist even after following the steps above, you should consult a doctor to see if they are caused by an underlying health issue.

Question #2 - What does it mean when the dry patches on my skin are not itchy?

Not everyone with patchy dry skin on their face will experience itching, particularly if it is not caused by one of the skin conditions listed above. However, regardless of whether it itches or not, you still need to treat the problem of dryness so it doesn’t get worse or cause lasting damage.

Question #3 - How do you get rid of dry patches fast?

Everyone wants fast relief from dry skin on their face or any other part of their body. Depending on the severity of the problem, it can usually be resolved relatively quickly by adhering to a proper skincare routine morning and night which uses products specifically designed for dry skin. To speed up the process, remember to never scratch or pick at your skin, always wear sunscreen, avoid long, hot showers, and start using a humidifier. 

Key Takeaways 

As long as you remain consistent with your treatment, whether the problem is dry patches around your nose, rough patches on your cheeks, or anywhere else on your body, it shouldn’t take too long before you start seeing an improvement. For accelerated results, build your skincare routine using products from our extensive collection which are not only professional grade and clinically tested, but receive 5-star reviews from customers just like you who are now enjoying their best skin ever!
Melissa Feldman

Melissa Feldman

Melissa Feldman lives in Toronto, Canada and works as an independent research writer. She has undergraduate degrees in both Teaching and Psychology, and a Master’s degree in Immigration. Melissa is skilled at writing compelling articles and producing academic, marketing, and creative content. She writes about a range of lifestyle topics, including health, fitness, beauty and nutrition. She has more than two decades of experience reviewing and editing publications intended for both public and professional audiences.

Written by Melissa Feldman

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