Dry skin can be caused by frequent bathing, aging, certain medical conditions, or hot/cold weather. You’re more likely to develop dry skin if you live in low-humidity, dry or cold climates or often swim in chlorinated pools. The risk also increases with age. However, you should see a doctor if you’re experiencing any of the following:

  • open sores from scratching

  • itching, redness, and dryness

  • large areas of peeling or scaling skin

  • no improvement despite using home remedies

Causes of Dry Skin

Age

Older adults are more likely to have dry skin because the glands that produce oil for the skin get smaller as we age. They are also more likely to develop medical conditions such as kidney disease and diabetes, which can cause dry skin.

Weather

The moisture in the air is usually lower during winter, and this can dry out your skin. Heating systems don’t help either, so you should cover up and moisture often during winter.

Job

You are more likely to develop chronic skin conditions and get dry skin if your job involves handling biological materials and chemicals. These jobs include cosmetology, food service, health care, printing, cleaning, construction, painting, mechanics, and agriculture. You can wear protective gear to protect your skin and reduce your exposure to the materials.

Smoking

Smoking tampers with the blood flow to the outermost skin layers, and it leads to dry skin. That’s why you should avoid smoking not only for the sake of beauty but also for the sake of your health.

Water

Hot tubs and pools have chlorine in them, causing the skin to dry out. That’s why you should keep your shower to a minimum and avoid using hot water when taking a bath. You will have healthier skin and also reduce your water bills.

Skin Conditions

Certain skin conditions can cause dry skin, such as Atopic Dermatitis. This condition’s most common symptoms include dry, itchy skin and a rash inside the elbows, on the hands, face, and feet, and behind the knees. Atopic Dermatitis is usually triggered by an allergic reaction. It can be managed by moisturizing the skin and avoiding what caused it.

How to Deal with Dry Skin

One of the best ways to treat dry skin is to identify its cause. Moisturizing your skin will also help. Lotions, creams, and oils can soften your skin as well as alleviate itchiness and pain. If you have extremely dry skin, you can use something with urea or lactic acid because it can help the skin hold water. However, these products can sting if applied on extremely dry, cracked skin. So, ask your dermatologist for advice before you apply anything. Here are other ways to manage dry skin.

  • Minimize the use of soaps or consider a soap-free cleanser. Avoid perfumed soaps and deodorant soaps that can strip away the skin’s natural oils.

  • Take only one five- to ten-minute shower or bath every day.

  • Avoid using bath sponges, washcloths, and scrub brushes.

  • Apply moisturizer washing your hands or after taking a bath to plug the gaps between the skin cells and lock in moisture while the skin is damp.

  • Don’t scratch your skin. A moisturizer or cold pack can help relieve itchy spots.

  • Wear natural fibers like silk and cotton because these materials let the skin breathe.

  • Set the humidifier to around 60% during winter to maintain the appropriate humidity level of your home. This level should be enough to prevent dry skin as well as keep airways and nasal passages healthy.

  • You should see a dermatologist right away supposing you don’t see any improvement.

So, there it is! Dry skin can be managed with moisturizers, home remedies, and lifestyle changes. If you have suggestions or questions, we’d love to hear them in the comment section below!