Dry skin is a problem that most people have likely experienced or will experience at one point in their lives. For some, genetics are to blame, while for others it’s environmental factors, lifestyle, or simply aging. No matter what the cause, the common consensus is that it’s itchy, uncomfortable, and harmful to your skin health.
If you’re struggling with this pesky condition despite moisturizing plenty, then you’ve come to the right place to learn how to fix dry skin for good. We’re also sharing the best shower filter for hair and skin. So keep reading to learn what causes dry skin and the best dry skin solutions.
Causes of Dry Skin
Dry skin is a result of your skin losing moisture or oil too fast, leading to dehydration. It’s a common problem in cold, dry climates such as the Midwest and the Northeast US where the air is low in humidity. This is why environmental factors are one of the biggest reasons for dry skin even when someone isn’t genetically prone to it. You can’t change the climate but there are many dry skin solutions that are effective even if you live in a place like this.
People on certain medications like diuretics and cholesterol-lowering drugs and having skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis tend to have drier skin than most. It’s also an issue for those working in the healthcare and food industries because they have to wash their hands frequently which leads to dryness.
Some other causes of dry skin are:
- Taking too many hot showers and baths that strip your skin of natural oils.
- Using harsh soaps that damage the skin barrier and lead to moisture loss.
- Nutrient deficiency and not drinking enough water.
- Skin barrier dysfunction from using too many actives in your skincare routine or over-exfoliating.
- Aging - As we age, our skin produces less oil which leads to dryness.
- Illnesses like kidney disease, thyroid disease, and diabetes.
If you’ve been doing any of the first four, you now have some idea of how to fix dry skin.
Another common reason for dry skin is bathing or showering in hard water. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), 85% of the homes in the US receive hard water. So before we move on to dry skin solutions, let’s talk about hard water’s effects on your skin.
Effects of Hard Water On Skin
Water containing extremely high levels of minerals like magnesium and calcium ions is known as hard water. It’s generally safe to drink hard water unless you’re prone to kidney stones or have cardiovascular diseases, but showering with hard water is what causes dry skin.
Hard water is extremely harsh for your skin health because it leaves a residue that can cause pH imbalance and disrupt the lipid barrier, resulting in dry, irritated, and cracking skin. No number of dry skin solutions will work for you if you use hard water. If you have pre-existing conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, then hard water can worsen them.
Hard water also settles into your pores, clogging them and leading to acne breakouts. It’s also a contributing factor in premature aging because it breaks down the skin’s natural moisture barrier and leaves a film that disrupts the natural exfoliation process.
How to Fix Dry Skin Caused by Hard Water
Getting rid of hard water is one of the topmost dry skin solutions, so it’s important to identify whether hard water is the culprit behind your parched skin. Get your water professionally tested for hard water or follow our tips to test water hardness at home.
In case you do have a hard water supply, we recommend installing either a water softener or a showerhead filter. Both of these devices work differently but to the same effect of releasing water that’s low in unwanted chemicals. However, showerhead filters are the more affordable and easy-to-install option of the two. These filters also reduce chlorine, dirt, and other contaminants that can harm your health.
The best shower filter for hair and skin is the revitalizing shower filter that infuses the water with healthy minerals that replenish your skin's health, making it look more youthful and plump.
Dry Skin Solutions
If you have hard water, a shower filter is the best solution. But here are some other recommendations on how to fix dry skin whether you have hard water or not:-
- Use a humidifier - If you live in a dry region, a humidifier will add that much-needed moisture to the air to soothe your skin.
- Invest in an intensive moisturizer - Brands like CeraVe, Aquaphor, and Cetaphil are well-known and well-loved by those struggling with dry skin.
- Use gentle soaps & body washes - Make sure it’s free of fragrance, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and alcohol which is what causes dry skin to become worse. Look for dry skin solutions like hyaluronic acid and glycerin instead.
- Take lukewarm baths & showers - Even though it feels good, hot water can dry out your skin, so avoid it. Also, limit how long you stay in the water.
- Slug with petroleum jelly - Slugging refers to layering petroleum jelly over your moisturizing products to lock in moisture. Warning: Don’t use this method if you’re acne prone.
- Wear protective clothing - If it’s cold, dry, or windy outside, cover yourself from head to toe to prevent water loss.
- Drink plenty of water - This is the most obvious of the dry skin solutions but if you don’t drink enough water, your skin will remain dry. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day.
- Avoid scrubs - Scrubbing cleansers and loofahs are good at removing dead skin, but they’re too abrasive. Use gentle exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs instead.
Make sure you’re always well-hydrated and moisturized. Create a simple skincare regimen that prioritizes skin barrier repair and make sure you consume a balanced diet that supports healthy skin because that’s the dry skin solution.
Now that you know how to fix dry skin, follow these good practices to gradually restore your skin back to its natural glow and health. In case your dry skin is accompanied by other concerning symptoms or doesn’t show signs of improvement, please consult a dermatologist.
Gift Yourself Healthy Skin, Hair, & Nails With AquaBliss
AquaBliss has the best shower filter for hair and skin, specifically engineered to soothe and rejuvenate. Try our multi-stage shower filter that reduces unwanted chemicals like calcium and magnesium so that the water feels softer on your skin. Or try our revitalizing filters that also infuse water with good minerals and Vitamin C. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our dry skin solutions!
*The statements in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any ailment, condition, or disease. If you have a medical concern, please contact a professional or speak to your primary doctor.
