flaky patches on face

Have you thought it could be eczema? Have you asked advice from a pharmacist or your doctor? May be worth it, ideally when the patches are there or if that isn't possible show them a photo.

cornergran My doc gave me a cortisone cream. However, I am not happy about using cortisone treatments. Am hoping it could be connected with stress (which I am under permanently). MAybe Flowers of Bach could help. Any experts out there?

It could be a reaction to the contents of the Boots serum - this is an old article but it shows just what's in the serum and doesn't make good reading!

serum

I would have a facial in a good salon and ask them to advise.

I can't use serums they bring me out in spots.
It could be a dermatitis thing or eczema you are getting not dry skin

I can't use any moisturisers from high street stores. I find using a thin smear of Aveeno keeps my face smooth. I suffer from very dry skin. It's a constant battle to keep it hydrated.

The Boots serum brought me out in a red rash similar to acne.

I would find an alternative moisturiser and ditch the serum. Something gentle and unperfumed perhaps.

Avene moisturisers are supposed to be good for problem skin. They do various types, for rosacea, problem skin etc. Also available in Boots and other outlets.

Riverwalk Very interesting article. Thanks!

Rescue remedy cream, Boots do it, swear by it for anything skin related

I have eczema and get red, flaky patches from time to time. It normally starts at this time of year, but this year I am using a couple of products from The Ordinary range under my normal La Roche Posay moisturiser. It really seems to work well and is so amazingly cheaply priced. I use hyaluronic and squalene, but it is all so complicated that I just followed the advice of the salesperson. Has anyone else tried it?

I have had these type of scaly patches on and off for years, also have chronic dandruff so I think both are related- probably a type of seborrhoeic dermatitis. I’ve used various creams over the years, including steroid ones, sparingly. But when in pharmacy a couple of years ago, as assistant recommended Kerium cream from La Roche Posay. I’ve found it pretty good, there’s also a shampoo which is good for dandruff.

Organic raw virgin coconut oil is excellent. No additives, very gentle and a little goes a long way! I find it very healing. If you prefer a cream, Allergenics cream, or ointment, is also excellent. It's as near natural as possible - no parabens etc.

Thanks everyone who answered my query. Have found some very useful advice here.

After 20 years I found what works for me and wanted to share. By chance I used a makeup remover after Halloween face paint (I'm a dude). Long story short, twice a day I us Costco's Kirkland brand facial towelettes. I share this hoping to spare others of decades-long paranoia, anxiety etc of having red and flaky facial skin.