Dry skin can be uncomfortable and affect your daily life. Whether you suffer from feeling tight, flaky or even itchy, it's important to understand why your skin gets dry and what you can do to prevent it. In this blog, you can read all about the causes!
How does the skin barrier work?
Symptoms of (extremely) dry skin
Main causes of dry skin
Causes of dry skin by body area
What is dry skin?
Dry skin, medically known as “xerosis”, is a skin type where your skin is unable to retain or produce enough moisture. This can result in flaky, rough, and sometimes itchy skin.
Dry skin can be temporary, such as during seasonal changes, or chronic, when the skin lacks moisture over a prolonged period. It can affect anyone, but it becomes more often as you age.
How does the skin barrier work?
The skin barrier, also known as the stratum corneum, is the outermost layer of your skin. This layer consists of skin cells and lipids (fats) that form a protective barrier against harmful external influences, such as bacteria, dirt, and UV radiation.
A healthy skin barrier retains moisture and prevents it from evaporating. When the skin barrier is weakened or damaged, the skin loses moisture more quickly, leading to dryness.
Symptoms of (extremely) dry skin
- Dry skin can be recognized by various symptoms, including:
- A tight, pulling sensation, especially after washing
- Flaky or rough patches
- Redness or irritation
- Fine lines or cracks
- Itchiness and discomfort
Main causes of dry skin
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Weather Conditions: Cold, dry air and wind can dry out the skin.
Hot Water and Long Showers: Warm water strips natural oils from the skin. - Harsh Soaps and Skincare Products: These can remove essential moisture barriers from your skin.
- Health Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can contribute to dry skin.
- Aging: As you age, your skin produces less oil (sebum), which can lead to dryness.
Causes of dry skin by body area
Dry skin can have different causes depending on the part of the body affected. Here’s a breakdown by area:
- Legs: Dry skin on the legs can result from frequent shaving, hot showers, or wearing clothes that cause friction.
- Face: Dry skin on the face can be caused by over-cleansing, using harsh skincare products, or exposure to cold and wind.
- Under the Eyes: The skin under your eyes is thin and sensitive. It can become dry due to dehydrating makeup, lack of hydration, or sleep deprivation.
- Feet: Dry feet, especially on the heels, can be caused by wearing shoes without socks, walking barefoot, or insufficient hydration.
- Hands: Dry hands are common due to frequent washing, use of hand sanitizers, or exposure to cold weather.
Treating dry skin
You can treat and prevent dry skin by making a few simple changes to your skincare routine. Choose a gentle cleanser to preserve your skin’s natural oils, and apply a rich moisturizer daily, especially after showering, to lock in moisture.
Protect your skin from the elements by wearing protective clothing and using a moisturizer with SPF. Be sure to drink enough water and avoid hot showers to prevent dehydration.
For more tips on how to combat dry skin, check out our detailed guide. If symptoms persist, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. Discover the best creams for dry skin to give your skin the optimal care it needs.
