My skin and hair always look dry and dull, even though I try to keep up with my routine. I drink plenty of water, moisturize twice a day, and condition my hair daily. But still, my hair looks greasy, and my skin doesn’t look fresh. Am I missing something? Would love to hear any advice or routines that work for you!
Hey! It could be product buildup on your hair. Try using a clarifying shampoo once a week—Ouai has a good one! Also, for skin, maybe it’s time to try new ingredients. What do you use to wash your face? And what kind of moisturizer? Have you tried any chemical exfoliants?
I use the CeraVe oil cleanser in the morning and the CeraVe salicylic acid cleanser at night. My moisturizer is also from CeraVe (just their standard one). I use Paula’s Choice toner every night, which I think is a chemical exfoliant, but I’m not totally sure.
Sounds like your skin might be dealing with dehydration and extra oil production at the same time, which happens when the skin barrier is off.
If your cleanser is a bit harsh, it could be messing with that barrier, leading to dryness and making your skin produce more oil. Try using a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser that doesn’t dry you out.
Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera in a toner or essence. These can boost moisture without adding extra oil, giving your skin that healthy look.
Thanks so much! I’ll definitely look for those products.
Don’t forget to exfoliate your skin! I do it 2-4 times a week with a good cleanser—Cosmedix exfoliating cleanser is a favorite of mine.
I’m still figuring out my skin, but for hair, leave-in conditioner and a good hair oil or serum can help with moisture.
Here are some I like:
- Pureology Colour Fanatic Leave-In Conditioner
- Olaplex No. 9 (I’ve heard No. 6 is even better)
- Olaplex No. 7 Hair Oil
The hair oil, in particular, has been a game-changer for me. My hair looks so much healthier when I use it.
For that Korean-style glass skin look, I use a toner and lotion from Round Lab Dokdo (1025). It really makes my skin glow. I also love using a good sunscreen—BOJ makes one that gives a nice, dewy finish.
For shiny hair, try a gloss. The Redken Acidic Bonding Gloss is amazing, though L’Oreal has a cheaper version that works too.
Definitely try a chemical exfoliant for your skin. It can make a huge difference!
You may not need to condition your hair every day. Daily conditioning can lead to buildup, which can make it greasy. Try shampooing twice when you wash, and only use conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends.
For soft hair, I like L’Oreal Elvive Total Repair 5.
For my body, I use Dove soap and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream (the one in a tub). It’s super hydrating and lasts all day. I also exfoliate my body once a week.
For my face, I apply hyaluronic acid on damp skin, then follow up with a thick moisturizer to lock it in. I also love Skin Aqua Tone Up UV Essence with SPF 50, it adds a nice glow and evens out my skin tone. And I use an AHA product once a week for gentle exfoliation.
I’ve had similar issues. You might have to play around a bit to find what works best.
-
Hair: Be careful with conditioners that use heavy ingredients like behentrimonium chloride, which can leave a waxy residue, especially on porous hair. I switched to products with lighter, oil-based ingredients, like Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine, and my hair’s natural shine finally came through. Try washing your hair in front of a mirror to make sure you rinse it really well, as steam from a shower can roughen the hair’s cuticle.
-
Skin: For healthy skin, you need cell turnover and moisture. I use mild cleansers, gentle exfoliants, and moisturizers if needed. My skin became sensitive, so I switched to washing only once a day and kept it very gentle (like Hibiclens or Yardley Oatmeal soap). For extra exfoliation, I use products like Differin or AHA peels, which help keep skin looking fresh.
I’ve been dealing with the same thing. Working out regularly has actually made my hair feel drier!
I know, right? My hair always feels dry and tangled after a workout.