Dry skin is an issue that most people encounter at some point in their lives, whether due to genetics, environmental factors, or simply the natural process of aging.
When skin loses water and essential oils, it can lead to extremely dry skin, resulting in discomfort, itchy skin, and even peeling. But why does dry skin occur, and what can you do to restore and retain moisture?
If you're struggling with dry, irritated skin despite using moisturizing creams and other skin care products, you’re not alone. We’ll explore the primary causes of skin dryness, the importance of protecting the skin barrier, and how medical treatments or lifestyle changes can help you treat dry skin effectively.
So keep reading to understand why your skin is dry and discover practical tips to keep it soft and hydrated.
Causes of Dry Skin
Dry skin is caused by factors that reduce your skin's ability to retain moisture. This can include cold weather, frequent bathing, exposure to harsh soaps, or medical conditions that impair the skin barrier.
Dry winter air is especially notorious for drawing moisture from the skin, leaving many of us dealing with dry, itchy skin.
External factors such as exposure to hot water, harsh cleansers, and fragrance-filled products are some of the most common reasons people develop dry skin.
Frequent hot showers strip away natural oils, which can damage the skin’s protective layer and lead to skin irritation.
Other Common Causes of Dry Skin:
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Hot Showers: While they feel good, hot water removes the skin's natural oils, leaving it vulnerable and dry.
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Harsh Cleansers and Detergents: Products like laundry detergents, fragrance-filled shower gels, and non-hypoallergenic soap can cause the skin to lose its moisture.
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Climate and Dry Weather: Areas with low humidity or harsh winters can severely impact skin’s ability to stay hydrated.
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Aging: As you age, skin produces less oil, which can make it drier.
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Certain Medications: Diuretics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and medications for thyroid disease or kidney disease may contribute to skin dryness.
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Skin Conditions: Eczema, atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis are all associated with extremely dry skin.
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Medical Conditions: Health issues like diabetes and cancer treatment can impair your skin's health and cause dry, itchy skin.
For those dealing with dry winter skin or extremely dry skin, it’s essential to protect and repair the outer layer of the skin.
The Impact of Hard Water on Skin Health
One significant, yet often overlooked factor in skin dryness is hard water. Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which disrupt the skin barrier and leave a residue that clogs pores, causing irritation and dry, itchy skin.
If you live in an area with hard water, a shower filter is one of the best investments to improve skin health. Shower filters can reduce minerals, harsh chemicals, and chlorine, making the water feel softer and less damaging.
AquaBliss, for instance, offers the best shower filter for hair and skin, which is designed to reduce these harmful elements and leave skin feeling healthier.
How to Fix Dry Skin
Addressing dry skin requires more than just a good moisturizer. Here are some tried-and-true methods for improving your skin’s ability to retain moisture and stay hydrated.
1. Choose the Right Moisturizer
Opt for thicker moisturizers or body lotions that contain hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which are effective in attracting moisture to the skin. For best results, apply these after a bath or shower to lock in moisture.
2. Take Lukewarm Baths & Showers
Switching to warm water instead of hot can prevent your skin from drying out. While hot showers can feel relaxing, they’re one of the main culprits behind dry skin. Try to keep showers short and use gentle cleansers that won’t strip away your skin’s natural oils.
3. Use a Humidifier
Dry winter air can wreak havoc on your skin. A humidifier can help maintain indoor humidity, preventing the air from drawing moisture out of your skin.
4. Layer Your Skincare Products
If your skin is extremely dry, consider slugging with petroleum jelly over your moisturizing products to seal in hydration. However, avoid this method if you’re prone to breakouts.
5. Choose Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic Products
Fragrances and alcohol can irritate dry skin further. Look for fragrance-free moisturizers and gentle, hypoallergenic cleansers to keep your skin calm and nourished.
When to See a Specialist for Dry Skin
If your dry skin is persistent, causing scaly patches, deep cracks, or is accompanied by symptoms of skin conditions like atopic dermatitis or perioral dermatitis, it may be time to consult a board-certified dermatologist.
They can recommend medical treatments such as prescription creams or medications to restore your skin's protective barrier and address underlying conditions.
Additional Tips to Keep Skin Soft and Hydrated
Maintaining skin hydration requires daily care and attention.
Here are a few more steps to keep your skin soft and hydrated:
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Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from dry air and harsh chemicals by wearing gloves while cleaning or doing dishes.
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Use Sun Protection: Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily prevents sun damage, which can contribute to skin dryness and aging.
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Drink Plenty of Water: Hydrate from the inside out by drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day.
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Incorporate Healthy Fats: Include foods rich in necessary healthy fats, like avocados and nuts, to support your skin's natural barrier.
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Avoid Harsh Exfoliants: Steer clear of scrubs and loofahs that can irritate dry skin. Opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs for a gentler approach.
Revitalize Your Skin with AquaBliss
To help restore your skin’s natural glow, AquaBliss offers a range of shower filters specifically designed to reduce dry skin issues associated with hard water. Their filters remove unwanted minerals, chlorine, and other contaminants, helping you retain moisture in your skin and preventing irritation.
AquaBliss’s revitalizing filters even infuse water with beneficial minerals, making them the best shower filter for hair and skin.
Final Thoughts on Keeping Your Skin Hydrated
Knowing how to treat dry skin is essential for a healthy skin barrier. With a few lifestyle adjustments and the right skin care products, you can protect your skin from dryness and irritation. By making these changes and applying moisturizer consistently, you can prevent skin conditions from worsening and improve your overall skin health.
*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.
