Dry skin is a common skin condition characterized by a lack of moisture in the skin. It can lead to itching, flaking, and cracking, and may cause discomfort and embarrassment for those who suffer from it. Dry skin can affect anyone, but it is most common in older adults, as the skin’s natural oils tend to decrease with age.
What Causes Dry Skin?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to dry skin, including:
- Environmental Factors – Cold, dry air, wind, and low humidity can all strip moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling dry and uncomfortable.
- Hot Water And Harsh Soaps – Hot water and harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
- Age – As mentioned earlier, the skin’s natural oils tend to decrease with age, leading to dry skin.
- Medical Conditions – Certain medical conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can cause dry, itchy skin.
- Medications – Some medications, such as diuretics and antihistamines, can cause dry skin as a side effect.
How to Treat Dry Skin
There are several ways to treat dry skin and keep it moisturized:
- Use Lukewarm Water – Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, so it is important to use lukewarm water when showering or bathing.
- Use A Gentle, Fragrance-free Soap – Harsh, fragranced soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, so it is important to use a gentle, fragrance-free soap.
- Pat The Skin Dry – Instead of rubbing the skin dry with a towel, gently pat it dry to retain as much moisture as possible.
- Moisturize Immediately After Showering – Applying moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing can help lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated.
- Use a Humidifier – A humidifier can help add moisture to the air, which can help keep the skin hydrated.
- Use A Gentle, Unscented Laundry Detergent – Harsh, fragranced laundry detergents can irritate the skin and strip it of its natural oils, so it is important to use a gentle, unscented laundry detergent.
- Protect The Skin From The Sun – The sun’s rays can be drying and damaging to the skin, so it is important to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when spending time outdoors.
- Use A Hypoallergenic Moisturizer – If the skin is sensitive or prone to irritation, it is important to use a hypoallergenic moisturizer to avoid further irritation.
Skincare products that are useful for treating dry skin include moisturizers, facial oils, and serums. Moisturizers help to lock in hydration and prevent water loss, while facial oils and serums provide an extra boost of moisture and nourishment. It’s also important to choose products that are formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides. Avoiding harsh, stripping products and using a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser can also help to reduce dryness. Additionally, using a humidifier and drinking plenty of water can help to keep the skin hydrated from the inside out.