If you've ever experienced dry, flaky skin that has a dull, grayish appearance, you might have heard someone describe it as "ashy". This term is commonly used in Black communities to describe dry skin that has lost its natural glow and radiance.
But what exactly causes ashy skin, and what can you do to remedy it? First, let's explore why our skin can become dry in the first place.
Why Does Dry Skin Happen?
There are many factors that can contribute to dry skin. The most common ones include:
- Weather: Cold, dry air can suck the moisture out of your skin, leaving it parched and dehydrated.
- Hot water: Hot showers or baths can strip your skin of its natural oils and make it dry and itchy.
- Harsh chemicals: Certain soaps, detergents, and skincare products can be too harsh for your skin, causing it to become dry, irritated, and inflamed.
- Age: As we age, our skin produces less oil and loses elasticity, making it more prone to dryness and wrinkles.
What Does It Mean to Be "Ashy"?
When your skin is dry, it can appear dull, flaky, and lackluster. This is often described as "ashy" because the skin can look like it has been covered in a layer of ash.
Ashy skin is particularly noticeable on people with darker skin tones, as the contrast between the dry, dull skin and the vibrant, rich skin tone is more pronounced.
How Can You Remedy Ashy Skin?
One of the best ways to remedy ashy skin is to use natural plant-based butters and oils that are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. These ingredients can help to hydrate, nourish, and protect the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and radiant.
Some of the best natural ingredients for dry skin include:
- Shea butter: This rich, creamy butter is packed with vitamins A, E, and F, as well as essential fatty acids that can help to soothe and moisturize dry, itchy skin.
- Cocoa butter: Another luxurious butter, cocoa butter is high in antioxidants and has a rich, chocolatey aroma. It can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
- Coconut oil: This versatile oil is a favorite among beauty enthusiasts for its hydrating and nourishing properties. It's particularly beneficial for dry, damaged hair and skin.
- Jojoba oil: This lightweight, non-greasy oil is similar in structure to the natural oils in our skin, making it an excellent moisturizer for all skin types. It can help to balance oil production and soothe inflammation.
- Avocado oil: This oil is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, as well as monounsaturated fats that can help to nourish and protect the skin. It's particularly beneficial for mature or dry skin.
One of our favorite products at the moment is ASHYBALM. This company does an excellent job of focusing on "ashy" skin and implementing a majority of the products listed above. Using a natural plant-based butter or oil like ASHYBALM on your skin can help to restore its natural moisture barrier, leaving it soft, smooth, and radiant. Just remember to choose products that are free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, and always patch test new products before applying them to your skin.