Dry skin is a common condition caused by many factors. Further, some cases of dry skin could indicate a more serious condition. However, in most cases, dry skin is often caused by environmental factors that have an impact on the loss of skin moisture.
Although some people think that dry skin is not disturbing, in fact, dry skin can trigger conditions such as the appearance of wrinkles, skin tight feeling, itching, cracking, and even bleeding. Actually, what causes dry skin? and how to deal with dry skin?
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Causes of Dry Skin
In general, dry skin is caused by loss of water from the outer layer of the skin. The scorching heat of the sun, too many hot baths, dry climates, and soaps with "harsh" ingredients can trigger dry skin conditions as well. In addition, there are other possibilities that lead to dry skin, including:
Extreme hot air. Central heating, wood-burning stoves, room heater, and fireplaces can reduce skin moisture.
Environment. Living in cold, windy or low humidity climates.
Rubbing the skin with something rough. Hot showers or scrubbing the skin too much can dry out the skin. In fact, bathing many times a day can strip the natural oils from the skin.
Soaps and detergents that contain harsh ingredients. Many well-known soaps, detergents, and shampoos can strip moisture from skin since they are formulated to remove oil.
Certain skin conditions. People with skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or psoriasis are more likely to have dry skin.
Certain medications. Some people experience dry and thick skin after undergoing certain medications.
Aging. As we age, the skin thins and produces less oil.
Treatment and Prevention of Dry Skin
Dry skin can be a response to your lifestyle, such as not using moisturizers and frequently taking hot showers. If you have a very dry skin for a long time, looking for a suitable moisturizer can be your basic solution.
Besides, you can do the following things that can help treat and prevent dry skin, such as:
Apply moisturizer. Moisturizer locks in moisture to keep the skin barrier healthy. So, don't forget to use moisturizer and sunscreen throughout the day before leaving the house, even when it's cloudy.
Limit the duration of bathing. Keep bath time to 15 minutes or less. Use warm water, not hot water then rinse and dry your body.
Use a gentle cleanser or allergen free soap. Use a non-soap cleansing cream or shower gel. Also, it's better to use a moisturizing soap without fragrance, alcohol or allergens. After cleansing, rinse thoroughly with water and dry. Then, apply a moisturizing cream while the skin is still damp.
Cover the skin when it's cold or windy. Extreme weather can be very drying to the skin. Scarves, hats, and gloves help protect your skin when you're outside.
Drink more water. Drinking mineral water every day can keep all body tissues, including the skin, well hydrated. Further, experts recommend limiting drinking caffeinated or added sugar drinks.
Use a humidifier. Install a humidifier can help you to add moisture to the air around you.
If you decide to go to a dermatologist for the dry skin conditions, especially on the face, a moisturizing cream and several other treatments such as Salmon DNA and Hyaluronic Acid Injection will be recommended to restore moisture and skin elasticity.