India, Dec. 30 -- New Year's resolutions often focus on lifestyle habits, including skincare. Before planning your routine or buying new products, it's important to identify any misconceptions and separate skincare myths from facts. HT City spoke with Dr Soujanya Dhulipala, consultant dermatologist, who explained that dry skin involves more than just hydration issues. She also shared six common myths about dry skin. Drinking more water alone doesn't fix dry skin. The outer layer, the stratum corneum, controls moisture, and when it's damaged, hydration escapes. Dr Dhulipala recommends barrier-repairing products to restore lipids and natural moisturising factors. Skin can be both oily and dry when harsh cleansers strip natural oils, causing excess sebum and irritation. Dr Dhulipala suggests gentle cleansers and moisturisers that restore the lipid barrier to balance oil and hydration. Thick creams won't fix a damaged skin barrier. The dermatologist recommends barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants to strengthen the skin's protective layer. Dry skin can occur year-round due to pollution, sun, and air conditioning. Dr Dhulipala advises a consistent routine with antioxidants, SPF, and restorative ingredients to keep skin balanced. Proper exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and improve moisturiser absorption, while over-exfoliating or harsh ingredients cause problems. Dr Dhulipala recommends gentle chemical or enzyme-based exfoliants, which, paired with collagen-remodelling treatments, strengthen skin and boost hydration. Dry skin is not permanent. As per Dr Dhulipala, chronic dryness can be improved with the right skincare and professional treatments that restore the skin's moisture-retaining ability and barrier function. She emphasised three key steps for improvement: strengthening the skin barrier, maintaining hydration, and supporting collagen synthesis....