Dry, itchy, or flaky skin is one of the most common skin complaints, and it can affect anyone at any age. Dry skin can appear on both the face and body. While occasional dryness may come and go, ongoing symptoms can be frustrating. If you’re struggling with dry skin there are several steps you can take to not only improve the skin’s texture, but appearance as well.

What Causes Dry Skin?

From everyday habits and environmental triggers to medical conditions, there are many reasons skin loses its moisture, leading to dry, scaly skin. Water and natural oils are essential for keeping skin soft and hydrated. When the skin loses that, it turns dry.

Some of the most common causes of dry skin include:

  • Weather changes: cold, dry air can strip moisture away from the skin
  • Hot showers or harsh soaps: Prolonged exposure to hot water or using soaps that remove natural oils can dry out skin
  • Age: As we get older, the skin naturally produces less oil

Medical conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, and thyroid problems can all lead to dry skin

How Do I Know If I Have Dry Skin?

Many people can recognize dry skin by both how it looks and feels.

Dry skin may appear scaly, cracked or flaky. It may also look rough, ashy or red. 

When it comes to how dry skin feels, it can range from feeling tight, itchy, and stinging. These symptoms can show up anywhere on the body, but are most common on the hands, arms, legs, and face. If the dryness is long-lasting or very uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist to rule out other conditions.

Treatment for Dry Skin

Treating dry skin can include eliminating products or activities that can dry out the skin and adding moisture back into the skin.

If you have dry skin, it’s important to avoid or limit hot water use (avoiding long, hot showers), harsh soaps, and exposure to dry air. All of these things can dry out the skin and strip away natural oils. It’s also helpful to avoid food and drinks that cause dehydration including alcohol, caffeine, salt, and sugar. 

Using moisturizers can help restore moisture to the skin. Some people also benefit from using a humidifier in their home which can help add moisture to the air. 

Extremely dry skin can also result in eczema, which would require anti-inflammatory medication, like a topical steroid, to treat the condition. If the skin becomes crusty or yellow with scabs, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

The Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin

When choosing a moisturizer to help treat dry skin, it’s important to look at the ingredients. Products that are fragrance-free and gentle are best for restoring moisture to the skin. You’ll want to use products that contain ingredients like petroleum jelly, mineral oils, and hyaluronic acid, all which help lock in moisture. 

When taking a shower or bath, use lukewarm water and be sure to apply a gentle moisturizer to the skin right after.

How Often Do I Treat Dry Skin?

When treating dry skin, it’s important to keep the skin moisturized at all times. This can mean applying ointments, creams or lotions to your skin at least once a day. Many people benefit from applying moisturizer several times a day, for some this could be in the morning, after bathing, and before going to sleep.

Schedule Your Consultation in Glencoe or Lincolnshire

If you have dry skin, schedule a consultation with Advanced Dermatology today to explore the best treatment options for you. Contact us to book your appointment at one of our North shore offices in Lincolnshire or Glencoe.