Dry Skin 101: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Dry skin is something almost everyone deals with at some point. It can make your skin feel rough, tight, or itchy, and in more serious cases, it can crack or become painful. While it’s usually not a serious health problem, it can be uncomfortable and frustrating.

The good news is that dry skin is often easy to treat and prevent once you understand what’s causing it. In this blog, we’ll cover the basics: what causes dry skin, what symptoms to watch for, and the best ways to treat and care for it. 

Dry skin occurs when your skin loses too much water or oil, resulting in a rough, flaky, or tight texture. Although it can appear anywhere on the body,it is most common on the face, hands, arms, and legs.

Depending on the severity, dry skin can be a minor irritation or a more serious issue that interferes with your daily life. 

One thing that people should know is that dry skin is not a disease in but rather a symptom of various internal and external factors. In some cases, it may be a sign of an underlying health condition. 

By understanding what causes dry skin, you can take the right steps to prevent it. Here are the most common dry skin causes: 

1. Weather and Environment: Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating during winter can strip moisture from the skin. Similarly, hot, dry climates can also cause dehydration of the skin.

2. Hot Showers and Baths: While a hot shower might feel soothing, prolonged exposure to hot water can strip away the skin's natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated.

3. Harsh Soaps and Cleansers: Many soaps and body washes contain chemicals and fragrances that remove oils from the skin, making it more susceptible to dryness. 

4. Ageing: As we age, our skin naturally produces less oil and becomes thinner, reducing its ability to retain moisture. 

5. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis often cause or worsen dry skin. These chronic skin disorders usually require medical treatment.

The good news is that dry skin is often treatable with a combination of lifestyle changes, skincare products, and, in some cases, medical interventions. Here are some of the most affordable dry skin treatments you can try out!

1. Moisturise Regularly: The cornerstone of dry skin treatment is moisturising. Hence, you need to use the best moisturiser for dry skin that contains ingredients like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, etc. Apply moisturiser immediately after bathing to lock in moisture. For very dry areas, consider using an ointment or balm instead of a lotion.

2. Limit Hot Water Exposure: Use lukewarm water instead of hot when bathing or washing your face. Keep showers short, ideally under 10 minutes, and avoid soaking in hot baths for too long.

3. Use Gentle Cleansers: Add fragrance-free, sulphate-free face cleansers in your dry skin care routine that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid products with alcohol, which can be particularly drying.

4. Invest in a Humidifier: A humidifier adds moisture to the air, especially useful during winter when indoor heating systems dry out the environment. Place one in your bedroom for overnight relief. 

5. Stay Hydrated: One of the most common skin hydration tips is to drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your skin’s hydration from within. Aim for at least 8 cups (about 2 litres) per day, more if you’re physically active or live in a dry climate.

6. Wear Protective Clothing: In harsh weather, protect your skin with gloves, scarves, and layers. Use sunscreen with SPF 50 year-round, as UV exposure can damage and dry out the skin further.

7. Avoid Scratching: Dry skin often itches, but scratching can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection. Try applying a cold compress or anti-itch creams if needed. 

8. Use Overnight Treatments: For severe dryness, apply a thick layer of moisturiser or ointment to affected areas before bed and cover them with cotton gloves or socks to enhance absorption. 

Here we’ve listed the special considerations for different skin types, so make sure to take a look!

If you’ve been dealing with dry, itchy, or flaky skin, try integrating these solutions into your routine. And remember: healthy skin starts from the inside out, so stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice when needed.

If over-the-counter treatments and preventive measures don’t improve your skin within a few weeks, or if the dryness is accompanied by severe redness, inflammation, or open sores, consult a dermatologist. 

Q. What causes dry skin all of a sudden?

Ans. Sudden dry skin can be caused by a change in weather, a new skincare product, hot showers, or even stress. It may also be a reaction to certain medications.

Q. Can dry skin be a sign of a health problem?

Ans. Yes, sometimes dry skin can be a symptom of conditions like eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, or thyroid issues. If your dry skin is persistent or severe, it’s best to consult a doctor.

Q. Is it okay to exfoliate dry skin?

Ans. Gentle exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells, but it’s important not to overdo it. Use a mild scrub or a soft washcloth 1–2 times a week and always moisturize afterward.

Q. What’s the best type of moisturizer for dry skin?

Ans. Look for moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerine, or shea butter. Thicker creams or ointments work better than lotions for very dry skin.

Q. Can drinking more water help with dry skin?

Ans. Drinking enough water supports overall skin health, but it won’t instantly fix dry skin. It’s best to combine proper hydration with a good skincare routine.