Characteristics and symptoms of dry skin
When should you see a doctor?
How to treat and get rid of dry skin?
10 tips to combat dry skin
Causes of dry skin
Dry skin, medically known as “xerosis,” can be caused by various factors. One of the primary causes is a decreased production of sebum, the natural oil produced by your skin. This can occur due to:
Aging
As you age, your skin produces less sebum, making it drier. This happens because the sebaceous glands become less active and the skin becomes thinner. As a result, the skin is less able to retain moisture. This is a natural process and can lead to extremely dry skin in older adults.
Aging also leads to reduced collagen production and the breakdown of existing collagen. Collagen helps retain moisture and hydration in the skin.
Weather conditions
Cold, dry air, and wind can strip moisture from your skin. This is especially true in winter when humidity is low and the wind is harsh, causing the skin to dry out quickly. This can result in chapped skin, especially on exposed areas such as the face, arms, and legs.
Hot water
Frequent and prolonged bathing or showering in hot water can remove the skin's natural oils. Hot water can wash away the protective fatty layer on your skin, leading to very dry skin. This also applies to washing your face with hot water.
Chemical irritants
Common products like soap, detergents, and other skincare products can dry out your skin. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can damage the skin barrier, leading to irritated and dry skin patches.
Health conditions
Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and diabetes can contribute to dry skin. These conditions disrupt the normal function of the skin barrier, making it less able to retain moisture. People with these conditions often suffer from extremely dry skin that requires special care.
Characteristics and symptoms of dry skin
Recognizing dry skin is essential to taking timely action. The most common characteristics and symptoms include:
- Flaking and rough patches: Your skin may feel flaky and appear rough.
- Itching: Xerosis often comes with itching, which can lead to scratching and further irritation.
- Redness: The skin can become red and inflamed. Cracks: In severe cases, painful cracks may appear.
- Tight Feeling: After showering or bathing, your skin may feel tight, as if it is too small for your body.
How to recognize extremely dry skin
Extremely dry skin can show even more severe symptoms. In addition to the above, you may experience:
- Deep cracks: Painful fissures in the skin, especially on the hands, feet, and knees.
- Bleeding: The deep cracks may sometimes bleed.
- Chronic itching: Persistent, unbearable itching that affects your daily life.
When should you see a doctor
In most cases, the skin significantly improves with lifestyle changes and simple home remedies. However, it may be necessary to seek professional help from a doctor or dermatologist if:
- You still suffer from persistent symptoms despite self-care measures;
- Your skin becomes irritated or painful;
- Your condition is so uncomfortable that it causes loss of sleep or difficulty performing daily activities;
- You have open wounds or infections due to scratching;
- Large areas of your skin are peeling or flaking.
How to treat and get rid of dry skin
Treating and caring for dry skin requires consistency and patience. Follow the tips below and adjust your skincare routine to see long-lasting results. Consider consulting a dermatologist if you suffer from chronically dry skin.
10 tips to combat dry skin
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to keep your skin hydrated and supple. A healthy lifestyle plays an essential role in this. Avoid smoking, try to reduce stress, exercise regularly, and watch your diet. Here are 10 tips to help you:
Reading tip: Best creams for dry skin?
1. Use a mild cleanser
Choose a mild, pH-neutral cleanser that does not contain harsh chemicals. Avoid soap, as it can further dry out your skin. A good example is “The Cleanser,” which provides a gentle but deep cleansing without removing the skin's natural oils.
2. Limit hot water
Shower and wash your face with lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water can wash away the natural oils from your skin. Try to keep your showers short and use lukewarm water to protect your skin.
3. Moisturize immediately after washing
Apply a moisturizing cream or ointment to your still damp skin immediately after showering or washing. This helps lock in moisture. "The Day Formula" and "The Night Formula" are great examples specifically developed to intensively hydrate and nourish the skin throughout the day and night.
4. Protect your skin from the elements
Wear gloves and a scarf in winter to protect your skin from cold and wind. Use sunscreen in summer to prevent damage from UV rays. This helps keep the skin barrier intact and prevents further drying.
5. Choose the right moisturizer
Use a rich, hydrating cream or ointment that contains ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides. These ingredients help bind moisture to your skin. "The Volume" is a great example.
6. Drink plenty of water
Hydration starts from within. Make sure to drink enough water to keep your skin hydrated. Aim for at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water daily.
7. Use a humidifier
During winter, indoor air can be very dry due to heating. A humidifier can help maintain humidity levels and protect your skin from drying out.
8. Avoir irritants
Opt for hypoallergenic skincare products without fragrances and dyes. These substances can irritate and dry out your skin. "The Toner" is a gentle product that helps calm and refresh the skin without irritating ingredients.
9. Eat a balanced diet
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish and flaxseed, can help nourish your skin from within. Ensure a varied diet with enough vitamins and minerals to keep your skin healthy.
10. Regular exfoliation
Use a mild exfoliant once a week to remove dead skin cells and improve the absorption of moisturizers. "The AHA Peel" is ideal for gentle yet effective exfoliation.