If you’re like me, the more trips around the sun you take, the drier your skin gets. So, what’s a girl to do? There’s no need to coat yourself in Crisco oil twice a day. Instead, keep reading to discover the best skin care for dry aging skin.

When you browse at your local Sephora or Ulta, you’ll find an overwhelming array of skin care products—aisle after aisle of options. That’s why I’ve done the research for you! Today, we’ll dive into cleansers.

The Best Skin Care for Dry Aging Skin: 4 Best Cleansers

The best cleansers for aging skin are gentle and hydrating with properties that restore your skin’s natural barrier. Here’s a roundup of my 4 favorites plus one runner-up:

1. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

For everyday, I use CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. I love that it’s not only budget-friendly, but it also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help maintain the skin’s barrier.

Why you should add it to your skin care routine?

Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is enriched with essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, both of which are crucial for maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. Hyaluronic acid is known for its ability to retain moisture, keeping the skin hydrated and plump.

Non-Stripping, Gentle Formula: This cleanser is non-foaming and soap-free, which means it cleanses without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This is particularly beneficial for dry and aging skin, which needs gentle care to avoid further dryness.

Restores Skin Barrier: The ceramides in the cleanser help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, which can be compromised as the skin ages, leading to dryness and sensitivity.

Suitable for All Skin Types: This cleanser is suitable for sensitive and dry skin types, making it a versatile option for those with aging skin who need a gentle yet effective cleansing solution.

2. Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Lactic Acid Cleanser

If I want to indulge, I use Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Lactic Acid Cleanser. It’s on the pricier side but the results are amazing. Because it’s an exfoliator infused with AHA, it works to rid skin of any build-up while smoothing it.

Why you should add it to your skin care routine?

Lactic Acid for Exfoliation: Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve texture. It’s particularly good for aging skin because it brightens the complexion and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Hydration and Renewal: In addition to exfoliating, lactic acid helps retain moisture in the skin, making it ideal for dry skin types. It helps smooth and soften the skin while promoting cell renewal.

Anti-Aging Benefits: Regular use of this cleanser can help reduce the signs of aging, such as dullness and uneven skin tone, making the skin look more youthful and radiant.

Gentle Enough for Daily Use: Despite its resurfacing properties, this cleanser is formulated to be gentle enough for daily use, even on sensitive or dry skin.

3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

La Roche-Posay is recommended by dermatologists and is highly praised by skincare experts for its effectiveness on dry and sensitive skin types.

Why you should add it to your skin care routine?

Hydrating Formula: The cleanser contains glycerin and ceramides, which are known for their hydrating properties. These ingredients help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier, keeping the skin hydrated and preventing further dryness.

Gentle on Skin: It’s formulated to be non-irritating and free from harsh chemicals like fragrances and parabens, making it suitable for sensitive and aging skin, which can be more prone to irritation.

Ceramides for Barrier Support: Ceramides are essential lipids that help strengthen the skin’s barrier. As we age, our skin’s natural ceramide levels decrease, leading to dryness and loss of elasticity. This cleanser helps replenish those ceramides, improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

Niacinamide for Anti-Aging: The inclusion of niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, helps soothe the skin, reduce redness, and improve the skin’s elasticity. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, making it ideal for mature skin.

Soap-Free and pH-Balanced: The cleanser is soap-free and pH-balanced, ensuring it cleanses without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This is particularly important for aging skin, which tends to be drier and more delicate.

4. RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum Facial Cleanser

RoC is a well-known brand for anti-aging products, and this cleanser is often recommended by dermatologists for its effectiveness in addressing deep wrinkles while also being gentle on the skin.

Why you should add it to your skin care routine?

Retinol-Infused Formula: This cleanser contains retinol, a powerful anti-aging ingredient known for its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol promotes skin cell turnover, helping to rejuvenate aging skin.

Gentle Exfoliation: The formula gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion. This is especially beneficial for aging skin, which can become dull and uneven over time.

Hydrating Ingredients: While it targets wrinkles, the cleanser also includes hydrating ingredients to ensure the skin stays moisturized and doesn’t become overly dry from the retinol.

Best Skin Care for Dry Aging Skin Runner-Up: Rodan + Fields Redefine Daily Foaming Cleanser

While I’ve not tried this product, I’ve read great things about Rodan + Fields Redefine Daily Foaming Cleanser.

Why you should add it to your skin care routine?

Creamy, Foaming Formula: This cleanser transforms into a rich foam that gently cleanses the skin without leaving it feeling tight or dry. The creamy texture is ideal for aging skin, which can be more prone to dryness.

Exfoliating Beads: The cleanser contains gentle exfoliating beads that help remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion. Regular exfoliation is key for aging skin to maintain a youthful appearance.

Anti-Aging Ingredients: Formulated with a combination of anti-aging ingredients, this cleanser helps address the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness, while still being gentle enough for daily use.

Boosts Radiance: The cleanser is designed to boost skin radiance and improve texture, making it a great addition to an anti-aging skincare routine.

I know that having the perfect body doesn’t fix all your problems, or make you love yourself more. To me, it’s all about being comfortable in your own skin.

-America Ferrera

Choosing the Best Skin Care for Dry Aging Skin

Each of these cleansers offers unique benefits for dry, aging skin, from gentle exfoliation to deep hydration and anti-aging properties. Choosing the best skin care for dry aging skin will depend on your specific skin concerns and preferences.

For me, it always comes down to trial and error. I try many different brands and formulations to see what works. If you’re not one for experimentation, a skin analysis from a qualified skin aesthetician or dermatologist can help you make the right decision.

Find out what I do to prep my skin for a night out.

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