Common Causes of Dry Skin
There are many reasons we develop dry skin, aside from disease and medicine. Here is an easy to understand list of the most common causes of dry skin and what can be done to reverse the problem.
Symptoms of Dry Skin
Generally, dry skin is not a serious condition, but if left untreated, it can become one. As plump cells of the skin dehydrate and shrivel, the skin changes being smooth and supple to tight, rough, and uncomfortable. When the skin begins to dry, mild to severe itching, flaking, peeling, scaling, and redness may gradually appear, accompanied by fine lines. In severe cases of dry skin, the skin may actually crack and bleed. Skin is often driest on the lower legs, hands, arms, feet and tummy.
Climate Conditions
Shield the skin against the cold of winter and the scorching heat of the summer by wearing proper clothing. Cold air acts as like a dehydrator; while the skin's moisture evaporates with warm air flow.
Low Humidity
Low moisture content in the air is another common cause of dry skin. One remedy is to increase moisture in the room with a humidifier. Air conditioning and heating systems in homes and offices remove moisture in air, and in your skin.
Bathing
Essential natural oils necessary for plump and supple skin are lost by frequent bathing; lengthy and/or hot baths and showers; scrubbing the skin; harsh soaps; and rubbing the skin briskly with a towel after bathing.
- Instead of bathing twice or more a day, limit bathing to once a day, or once every two days, depending on your activity level.
- Instead of hot baths; shower quickly in lukewarm water.
- Instead of "scrubbing" the skin clean, use a soft cloth to gently wash the skin.
- Instead of using harsh soaps, cleanse the skin with a mild moisturizing soap.
- Instead of briskly rubbing the skin dry after bathing, pat the skin until it is almost dry.
- After bathing, immediately apply moisturizing lotion or ointment on the skin; this helps trap moisture in the skin which was gained from bathing.
Aging
As women age their oil gland production slows, especially after menopause. Increase the intensity of your moisturizer to accommodate the skin’s changing condition.
Laundry/Clothing/Bedding
- Wash clothes in detergent that is free of dyes and fragrance.
- Avoid fabric softener sheets; use clothes dryer balls instead to soften and fluff clothes.
- Avoid clothing such as wool or scratchy fabric against the skin.
- Use cotton percale sheets instead of flannel to reduce the absorption of oil from the skin.
Diet
Eat a well balanced diet to ensure your body receives the nutrients it needs; and drink plenty of fluids to keep the skin moist from the inside.
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