Woman with a towel headwrap applying a creamy facial cleanser, promoting gentle skincare and hydration

Wellness

How to avoid dry and tight skin after cleansing

Cleansing is an essential part of any skincare routine, but for many individuals with sensitive or dry skin, it can leave the skin feeling tight, dry, and uncomfortable. If you've ever experienced this, you're not alone. In fact, studies show that up to 60% of women and 40% of men report having sensitive skin, which often reacts to cleansers with dryness and irritation.

At By Sarah, we understand how frustrating this can be. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you avoid dryness and maintain a healthy, hydrated complexion. Here are some expert tips and strategies to keep your skin feeling soft, comfortable, and well-nourished after cleansing.

Understanding why skin feels dry and tight after cleansing

Before exploring the solutions, it’s important to understand why your skin might feel tight after cleansing. The skin's natural moisture barrier, also known as the stratum corneum, plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration. When this barrier is compromised, water evaporates more easily, leaving the skin dry.

Common reasons for post-cleansing dryness include:

Harsh cleansers that strip the skin of natural oils.
Hot water that depletes moisture.
Over-cleansing or washing the face too frequently.
pH imbalances caused by unsuitable skincare products.
Environmental factors like low humidity or cold weather.

Now that we know the causes, let's look at ways to maintain balanced, hydrated skin:

1. Choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser

The type of cleanser you use can significantly impact your skin's hydration levels. Harsh, foaming cleansers that strip away natural oils are often the culprits behind that uncomfortable, tight feeling.

Opt for fragrance-free, sulphate-free, and alcohol-free formulas.
Look for cleansers with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture.
Use pH-balanced cleansers (around 5.5) to protect your skin’s natural barrier.

A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that pH levels above 6.0 can disrupt the skin’s acid mantle, leading to increased dryness and irritation.

For those with sensitive skin, finding the right cleanser can feel like a challenge. That’s why we created the Balancer Cream Cleanser – a gentle, nourishing formula designed specifically for sensitive and dry skin. It effectively removes impurities while maintaining your skin's natural moisture levels, leaving it clean, calm, and hydrated without any tightness.

Pro tip: Avoid cleansers with sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulphate (SLES), as these can cause significant skin dryness.

2. Use lukewarm water instead of hot water

While hot water might feel relaxing, it can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and more prone to sensitivity.

Cleanse your face with lukewarm water to preserve your skin's protective oils.
Avoid prolonged exposure to water, as extended washing can weaken the skin barrier.

Research indicates that prolonged exposure to hot water can lead to a 25% reduction in skin hydration. So, turning down the temperature is a simple yet effective step.

Pro tip: Rinse your face for no more than 30-45 seconds to avoid over-drying.

3. Follow the 60-second rule

Cleansing your skin for about 60 seconds helps ensure you're removing impurities effectively while preventing excessive dryness.

Gently massage the cleanser using circular motions.
Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can irritate sensitive skin.

This technique allows the ingredients in your cleanser to work effectively without over-stripping the skin.

Pro tip: Use clean hands or a soft microfibre cloth instead of rough washcloths.

4. Pat, don’t rub

How you dry your skin after cleansing is just as important as how you cleanse it.

Use a soft, clean towel.
Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it, as rubbing can cause irritation and microtears.

Leaving your skin slightly damp also helps lock in moisture when applying your next skincare steps.

Pro tip: Use a dedicated facial towel to avoid bacteria transfer from body or hand towels.

5. Apply a hydrating mist immediately after cleansing

Skin tends to lose moisture quickly after cleansing, a phenomenon known as trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).

Apply a hydrating facial mist immediately after cleansing to replenish moisture.
Look for mists containing aloe vera, known for its soothing properties.

Our Reviver Hydrating Mist, dermatologically approved for sensitive skin, is specifically designed to soothe and hydrate skin post-cleanse.

Did you know? TEWL can increase by 75% within the first few minutes after washing your face if you don’t apply moisturiser or hydrating mist.

6. Follow with a moisturiser to seal in hydration

Applying moisturiser after cleansing is essential for locking in hydration and reinforcing the skin barrier. When your skin is damp, it's at its most receptive state, allowing moisturising ingredients to penetrate more effectively.

Choose moisturisers with ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter.
Avoid products containing fragrances and essential oils, as these can trigger irritation.

According to a study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for maintaining skin moisture.

For those with sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin, our Tender Skin Balm is an ideal choice. This dermatologically approved balm is clinically proven to increase skin hydration for up to 8 hours while helping to maintain and strengthen the skin barrier. Its rich, soothing texture works wonders in reducing transepidermal water loss, providing long-lasting comfort and nourishment.

Pro tip: Apply moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp for better absorption, and reapply during the day if your skin feels dry.

7. Avoid over-cleansing

Cleansing too frequently can disrupt your skin's natural balance.

Cleanse your face once or twice daily, depending on your skin's needs.
If your skin feels particularly dry, consider using just water in the morning and a cleanser at night.

Dermatologists recommend double cleansing only when wearing makeup or sunscreen, as over-cleansing can compromise the skin barrier.

Pro tip: Listen to your skin – if it feels tight or itchy, consider reducing your cleansing frequency.

8. Choose skincare products wisely

Not all skincare products are created equal. Those with sensitive skin must be especially cautious when introducing new products.

Perform a patch test before trying new products.
Avoid ingredients like alcohol, artificial fragrances, and essential oils, which can cause dryness.

By Sarah products are formulated specifically for sensitive, eczema-prone skin, and each product is dermatologically approved to provide the safest and most effective care.

Pro tip: Simplify your routine – overloading your skin with multiple products can lead to irritation.

9. Incorporate skin-friendly habits into your routine

Healthy skin doesn’t rely solely on products; your daily habits also matter.

Diet and Hydration:

Drink at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily to maintain internal hydration.
Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, to support skin health.

Environmental Factors:

Use a humidifier to maintain moisture levels, especially during colder months.
Avoid prolonged exposure to central heating or air conditioning, which can dry out your skin.

Sun Protection:

Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily, regardless of the weather.
UV rays break down collagen and damage the skin barrier, making it more prone to dryness.

Pro tip: Wear protective clothing and hats when spending extended time outdoors.

10. Replenish your skin overnight

Nighttime is the perfect opportunity to give your skin the care it needs to repair, recover, and restore its natural balance. While you sleep, your skin undergoes a regeneration process, making it an ideal time to apply nourishing and restorative treatments.

Apply a rich, nourishing night cream or oil to support skin repair.
Look for ingredients like niacinamide, panthenol, and ceramides that promote skin barrier recovery.

Dry, tight skin after cleansing is a common concern, especially for those with sensitive skin. However, with the right techniques, ingredients, and products, you can protect your skin's natural barrier and maintain lasting hydration. Remember, skincare is not a one-size-fits-all journey – it’s about listening to your skin's needs and responding with gentle, nourishing care.

At By Sarah, we take pride in crafting products that prioritise skin health, comfort, and simplicity. Our formulations are carefully created with sensitive skin in mind, ensuring every product, from our Balancer Cream Cleanser to our Tender Skin Balm, delivers effective, soothing care without irritation.

We hope these tips help you achieve healthier, more comfortable skin. If you have any questions or need advice, our team is just an email away at care@bysarahlondon.com, or you can reach out to us on Instagram @bysarahlondon.

Let’s continue this self-care journey together, one step at a time.

By Sarah