Dry skin is a common issue that affects people of all ages. Whether it’s itchy, flaky patches on your face, or that uncomfortable tight feeling, dry skin can be frustrating. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of dry skin, simple steps for relief, and how to care for your skin.
Dry skin occurs when your skin’s natural moisture is depleted and becomes dehydrated. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as tightness, redness, flaking, roughness and cracked skin in more severe cases.
Our skin acts as our protective barrier, and when dehydrated, it loses its ability to function effectively, causing discomfort. The outer layer of your skin contains lipids (fats) that help to retain moisture. Once these lipids are depleted, your skin loses its ability to stay hydrated.
Dry skin can be temporary, caused by numerous factors from the weather, skincare, or it could be linked to underlying heath conditions. Proper skin care and ample hydration are crucial in managing dry skin and restoring balance.
Environmental factors play a role in the health of our skin. Cold weather with low humidity can wreak havoc on our skin. During the winter months, when the air is drier and temperatures are lower, our skin can be stripped of moisture. On the other hand, hot showers and baths are also culprits when it comes to flakiness. Long, hot showers can dehydrate your skin by stripping away its natural oils.
Your skincare habits may be the reason behind dry, uncomfortable skin. Over-cleansing, particularly with harsh soaps can disrupt our skin’s natural moisture balance, stripping oils and leading to dryness. Skipping moisturiser can also contribute, as moisturisers act as humectants, locking in hydration.
As we age, our body undergoes many natural changes, our skin included. One of the most noticeable changes is a reduction in our skin’s oil production. This means that more mature skin struggles to keep its moisture levels up, leaving it prone to dryness and irritation.
Medical conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis disrupt the natural skin barrier, causing inflammation, dryness, and flakiness. Nutritional deficiencies can exacerbate the problem, particularly a lack of key vitamins and fatty acids.
There are many ways you can prevent and treat dry skin beginning with being gentle with your skin. The skin on your face is different to the skin on your body and requires a little more TLC. If you are experiencing dryness or flakiness, it can be tempting to reach for the exfoliating scrubs, or harsh acids. Although exfoliating acids with AHAs and BHAs are beneficial for the skin, they can also exacerbate irritation. Opt for a gentle cleanser followed by a hydrating treatment which contains ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid to lock in moisture.
Drinking water can do a world of good for the body, especially for our skin. Water helps in improving circulation and blood flow, and in turn, oxygen to the skin, helping to keep you looking healthy and radiant. Lastly, a balanced diet, ensuring you are getting all the vitamins and minerals you need will help.
If you are experiencing painful dry patches, cracking or bleeding, it could be a sign of a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis or even an underlying nutritional deficiency. If your skin is affecting your everyday life or even your mental health, it is always worth seeking professional help. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, and we all face skin troubles from time to time!
Dry skin is a common condition and can be brought on for numerous reasons, and it’s important to figure out what may be causing it. Environmental factors, hot showers, harsh skincare products, ageing or underlying health conditions can all be the culprit behind that dry, flaky skin. To manage dryness, it’s important to be gentle, stay hydrated, follow a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and seek professional help where needed! Everyone’s skin is unique, so finding out what works best for you is key for glowing, radiant, and ultimately, healthy skin.
