Dermatologists Share Tips to Treat Dry, Itchy Skin on Your Face

From adjusting your skincare routine to using a humidifier, these expert-backed tips can help soothe irritated complexions.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:07pm

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Dealing with dry, flaky, and itchy skin on your face? Dermatologists share the common causes, from weather changes and eczema to contact dermatitis and infections, and provide their top tips to help hydrate and heal your complexion. Recommendations include using gentle cleansers, thick moisturizing creams, and limiting hot showers, as well as incorporating a humidifier and being cautious with exfoliants and acne treatments that can further strip the skin.

Why it matters

Dry, irritated skin on the face can be uncomfortable and unsightly, impacting one's confidence and quality of life. Understanding the underlying causes and following dermatologist-approved treatment methods can provide much-needed relief and help restore a healthy, glowing complexion.

The details

Dry, flaky skin on the face is often exacerbated by environmental factors like cold, dry winter air or air conditioning, which can strip the skin of moisture. Other common culprits include eczema, contact dermatitis from irritating skincare products, seborrheic dermatitis, and even bacterial or fungal infections. To combat these issues, dermatologists recommend using gentle, hydrating cleansers and thick moisturizing creams, limiting harsh exfoliation, and incorporating a humidifier. They also advise caution with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and retinoids, which can further dry out already irritated skin.

  • Wintertime can worsen dry skin for many people due to lower humidity, frigid temps, and harsh wind.
  • Flare-ups of seborrheic dermatitis often become more common during cold, dry months.

The players

Rajani Katta, M.D.

A board-certified dermatologist and author of "Glow: The Dermatologist's Guide to a Whole Foods Younger Skin Diet".

Angela Lamb, M.D.

The director of the Westside Mount Sinai Dermatology Faculty Practice.

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What they’re saying

“When the air is dry and cold, more water evaporates on the surface of your skin. This leads to flaking because the top layer of the skin gets dried out.”

— Angela Lamb, M.D., Director of the Westside Mount Sinai Dermatology Faculty Practice

“I frequently see allergic reactions to skincare or hair care products, and these can result in scaly, red, itchy patches.”

— Rajani Katta, M.D., Board-certified dermatologist

What’s next

If the dry, flaky skin on your face persists or worsens despite trying these home remedies, it's recommended to see a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

The takeaway

Dry, irritated skin on the face can have a variety of underlying causes, from environmental factors to skin conditions like eczema and contact dermatitis. By following dermatologist-approved tips to gently cleanse, moisturize, and protect the skin barrier, many people can find relief and restore a healthy, glowing complexion.