There’s no doubt that today’s cosmetic industry is oversaturated. With excess products and steps, it can be difficult to decide what your skin actually needs and doesn’t. But the benefits of a basic skin care routine—cleansing, toning, and moisturising should never be overlooked. Most people understand what cleansing and moisturising does for the skin, but many aren’t educated about the benefits of toning.

Hydration is key to healthy, nourished skin. And a moisturiser is a go-to skincare product needed for most people. But what you may not realise is that your moisturiser is not enough for dry skin. According to a Harvard Medical School study, moisturisers help dry skin by creating a seal on the skin’s surface—which prevents water from evaporating—but doesn’t actually hydrate the skin. Dry oils, on the other hand, are effective in keeping your skin hydrated. We break down the basics of dry oils, and why you should invest in one.