Dry skin is a type of chronic skin condition that occurs when the skin loses moisture too quickly because of dehydration. This condition can be caused by the person’s age, medical history, season, and bathing habits, and its treatments can vary. Scaling, itching, and cracking of the skin are the usual symptoms of dry skin. Even though it is usually a result of other factors, people who generally have oily skin may also occasionally suffer from dry skin issues. As we age, dry skin becomes more problematic, and over half of persons 40 years of age and older have dry skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

What is Dry Skin?

If your skin doesn’t have sufficient moisture to maintain its softness, the condition is referred to as dry skin. Your skin may feel rough in places and seem scaly or flaky when you have dry skin. Your skin may also be itchy if it is dry, and heavily parched skin might break and bleed. The skin becomes rougher and gets irritated easily or has a different tone than usual as a result.  Also dry skin makes you more prone to develop eczema.

People may have isolated patches of dry skin or a greater region of the body may be affected by it. Most of the time, dry skin is not a serious condition, it simply makes you uncomfortable until you can apply a moisturizer to rehydrate your skin.

Causes of Dry Skin 

Dry skin results from a deficiency of moisture in the skin's underlying layers, but some things might lead to dry skin. Knowing the cause behind dry skin helps you find the correct dry skin solution. 

• Age: The oil glands in your skin that produce moisture shrink with age, and your skin thins as a result of this. It dries up your skin's fat and collagen so that it loses elasticity, however, this is a normal aspect of ageing.

• Climate: The humidity of your skin can be impacted by the humidity and temperature of the environment. Dry skin is common in low-humidity areas, such as places that resemble deserts or are too cold and windy. Dry skin may happen at any time of year, although it usually gets worse in the winter.

• Health Conditions: If you have a medical condition that produces dry skin as a symptom or if you are born with genes that make you more prone to it, you may be more likely to get this condition. Dry skin can result from several illnesses, including diabetes, and allergies.

• Work Environment: Some jobs might cause dry skin, particularly if you work outside, with chemicals, or wash your hands a lot. Those in the medical field, hairdressing, and farming often deal with dry skin. 

Skincare for Dry Skin

If you suffer from this condition, good skincare with the right products can give you relief. Experts agree that to hydrate dry skin is the best solution to get rid of the discomfort. Here are the solutions that work best in reducing the condition. 

1. Moisturize Your Skin

Several times a day, especially after showering or hand washing, when your skin is still moist, apply moisturizer to your skin. Consult your physician about the benefits and drawbacks of different skin care products. Seek products that have healing components, including cocoa butter, shea butter, ceramides, and glycerol. Always use fragrance-free products that are neither hypoallergenic nor comedogenic. Products containing sodium lauryl sulfate should also be avoided as they are drying.

You may wish to put a cream on your face and neck as well. Select a product that is simple to use and doesn't leave any noticeable residue, but steer clear of products that include petroleum jelly or coconut oil if you are prone to acne on your face. You may also use products with alpha hydroxy acid or antioxidants that may help prevent scaly, flaky skin. Wrinkle creams are often made of moisturizers with additional retinoids, antioxidants, and other compounds that are also beneficial in fighting dry skin conditions.

2. Use Sunscreen 

At least twice a day, give your face a gentle wash with a mild, non-foaming cleanser that doesn’t contain alcohol. Use products that contain linoleic acid or stearic acid if your skin is delicate. Apply any topical medicine you're using, while your skin is still damp, then wait a few minutes before applying your moisturizer. If you use makeup, think about choosing items that have an oil or cream foundation and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or a moisturizer that incorporates sunscreen.  

3. Take Medications 

In severe cases, skincare for dry skin may not be enough, and you might need medications. Your doctor may recommend a topical steroid to treat very dry, itchy, or cracking skin. Topical steroids reduce skin inflammation, thus improving rashes and itching. Oral or injectable medicine may also be suitable in severe situations.

Conclusion

Dry skin is a widespread skin concern, and it occurs when the skin lacks the lipids and moisture necessary for self-maintenance. Dry skin can cause redness, scaling, and irritation and can be brought on by environmental causes, including cold temperatures and dry air. Health issues, including diabetes, eczema, and dehydration, might also be the cause of dry skin. 

Most occurrences of dry skin can be resolved if you hydrate dry skin with moisturizer, but some people may occasionally require prescription drugs to treat the issue. You may use an oil, like baby oil, or a heavier moisturizer if your skin is too dry because oil stays on the skin surface longer and keeps water from evaporating. If home remedies do not improve your dry skin or if it becomes an inconvenience in daily life, you can see a doctor.  

If you think you need to visit a doctor, going to dermatologist can be a great option. Book an appointment today and get advice from the experts.