How to Treat a Dry Face: HA, Occlusives, and Humectants

Dry facial skin can leave your complexion feeling rough, tight, or lacking in radiance. At Lisa Rush Skin Clinic, we focus on high-quality skincare strategies that support hydration and comfort, using a luxury, personalised approach. Understanding how to maintain moisture levels and protect the skin barrier is essential to achieving a supple, nourished appearance. 

This guide explores how ingredients like hyaluronic acid, occlusives, and humectants work together—and how they can be incorporated into a modern skincare routine. 

Understanding Dry Skin: Why is My Face Extremely Dry?  

The outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, plays a key role in maintaining hydration. When this barrier is compromised—whether from cold weather, low humidity, or harsh skincare products—moisture can escape more easily, leading to visible dryness and discomfort. 

Hydration levels may also be influenced by seasonal changes, skincare habits, or frequent exposure to environmental stressors. Supporting the skin barrier and replenishing lost moisture is the foundation of any effective hydration-focused routine. 

Key Hydrating Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Occlusives, and Humectants  

Certain ingredients are known for their ability to support the skin’s moisture balance. By layering humectants, emollients, and occlusives, you can help create a routine that maintains hydration and enhances comfort. 

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)  

Hyaluronic acid is a water-binding ingredient found naturally in the skin. It can attract and retain moisture at the surface level, contributing to a plump, hydrated appearance. 

• Low molecular weight HA may assist with deeper hydration.
  

• High molecular weight HA helps deliver hydration closer to the skin's surface (Harvard Health). 

Tip: Serums containing hyaluronic acid, such as H Serum or HA Intensifier, are often applied before moisturiser to help draw moisture into the upper layers of the skin. 

Occlusives  

Occlusives create a protective barrier to help prevent moisture loss. They are often found in rich creams and masks, ideal for use in evening routines or colder seasons. 

• Common occlusive agents include shea butter, beeswax, and certain plant-based oils. 

Tip: A product like the Airyday Bright Nights Sleep Mask contains occlusive ingredients that may help support hydration while you sleep. 

Humectants  

Humectants draw moisture into the skin and can be beneficial in maintaining comfort throughout the day. 

• Ingredients such as glycerin, aloe vera, and panthenol are widely used. 

Tip: Hydrating masks like the Hydrating B5 Hyaluronic Acid Facial Mask can offer a boost of surface hydration and support overall skin suppleness. 

How to Incorporate HA, Occlusives, and Humectants into Your Skincare Routine  

Creating a simple, consistent routine with layering in mind is key to supporting hydration. For those focusing on how to treat dry skin on face, following this routine may help: 

Step 1: Cleanse Gently  

Use a mild, nourishing cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin. The iS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser is one example that combines hydration with gentle cleansing. 

Step 2: Apply a Humectant-Rich Serum 

After cleansing, apply a serum that contains humectants such as hyaluronic acid. This step helps draw moisture to the skin before sealing it in. 

Step 3: Layer a Moisturiser with Occlusives 

A moisturiser that includes both emollient and occlusive ingredients, such as Youth Intensive Cream, may help lock in hydration and support barrier function. 

Step 4: Exfoliate Weekly 

Gentle exfoliation 1–2 times a week can help remove dead skin cells and allow your hydration products to work more effectively. The Airyday Reboot Fluid Exfoliant is a suitable option for maintaining clarity and smoothness without disrupting the skin barrier. 

Additional Tips for Managing Dry Facial Skin  

In addition to a targeted skincare routine, these lifestyle adjustments can further improve dry skin:  

• Hydration: Drinking water consistently throughout the day helps support skin function. 

• Diet: Foods rich in essential fatty acids—like salmon, flaxseed, or walnuts—may contribute to a healthy-looking complexion. 

• Air Quality: Using a humidifier during dry weather or in air-conditioned environments may help maintain moisture in the skin. 

• Avoid Triggers: Limit prolonged exposure to hot water and avoid harsh soaps or scrubs that can strip the skin’s natural oils. 

In-Clinic Skin Support at Lisa Rush 

At Lisa Rush Skin Clinic, we offer a selection of professional services that focus on maintaining hydration and enhancing skin comfort. Options such as Clinical Facials and Hydrafacial Elite MD can be incorporated into your skincare journey based on your individual needs. 

While in-clinic treatments may complement a home routine, results vary and are best discussed during a consultation. 

Embrace Skin Comfort with a Personalised Approach 

Achieving and maintaining hydration starts with the right skincare foundation. By incorporating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, humectants, and occlusives, you can help support a balanced, comfortable complexion. 

Interested in refining your routine? Explore our hydration collection or book a consultation to learn more about a personalised approach to skincare at Lisa Rush Skin Clinic.