What is very dry skin?

Very dry skin, or ‘Xerosis’, as the professionals call it, can be caused by hot or cold weather (go figure!), a lack of moisture, or even soaking in hot water. There’s a lot you can do to improve extremely dry skin on your own, but in some cases you might need to consult a skin doctor (dermatologist). DU’ITs range of products for very dry skin have unique keratolytic properties, which help combat dry skin, repair compromised skin barrier, let skin retain moisture better, and remove dead skin.

What causes very dry skin?

Dry skin occurs when it can no longer retain its natural moisturising factors or effectively hold on to moisturising ingredients—in other words, it loses the ability to replenish itself. The culprits include disrupting skin’s barrier and harming its microbiome by over-cleansing (especially with bar soap), harsh ingredients, abrasive scrubs, cumulative unprotected sun exposure (daily SPF is a must), and many common elements in the air we’re exposed to on a daily basis.

That’s why you can slather yourself in creams all day long, but your skin reverts back to its rough, uncomfortable, tight feeling. If you’re not addressing the root of the problem and using the right skin care products, you don’t stand a chance of alleviating dry skin.

The following factors also affect the severity of dry skin: Use a sunscreen specially formulated for dry skin, and apply it regularly.Frequent hand-washing, and alkaline detergents, can cause skin to dry out.

Sun exposure
Excessive sun exposure can also contribute to skin dryness. A sunscreen for dry skin should contain moisturising actives in addition to an appropriate Sun Protection Factor (SPF), thus rehydrating the skin. It is also important that sunscreens (or any other skincare products used on dry skin) do not contain irritating perfumes and colourants as dry skin, especially dry facial skin, is more prone to irritation than normal skin.

Occupational hazards
Certain occupations can also increase the risk of dry skin. Typically these are occupations that require working in hot or cold conditions (farmer/fisherman), frequent use of detergents (doctor/ nurse/ hairdresser), or exposure to chemicals (mechanic/cleaner).Drinking 1.5 litres of water a day helps to support the body’s water balance and keep skin hydrated.

Dehydration
Skin hydration is dependent on the body’s water balance. Dehydration deprives already dry skin of moisture. Elderly people are prone to dehydration as the sensation of thirst diminishes with age. Drinking a minimum of 1.5 liters of fluids daily is essential for maintaining healthy skin.

Smoking
Nicotine and toxins from cigarette smoke may decrease blood flow significantly, resulting in a decreased metabolic rate within the skin. This means the skin dries out more easily and ages prematurely.

What are the symptoms of dry skin?

Dry skin can manifest in various ways, including:

• Cracked skin: The skin’s surface may appear broken or flaky due to a lack of moisture.
• Rough skin: The skin may feel coarse or stretched, especially after washing or exposure to dry air.
• Flaky or peeling skin: The outer layer of the skin may shed small flakes due to dryness.
• Itchy skin: Dry skin can often be accompanied by an uncomfortable itching sensation.
• Changes in skin tone: The affected area may appear lighter or darker than the surrounding skin or take on a reddish or purplish hue.

In severe cases of dry skin, a rash known as dermatitis may develop. This rash can present with small, pimple-like bumps, along with itching, swelling, and redness or purple discoloration.

Treatment

Dry skin treatment aims to restore moisture and protect your skin’s natural barrier. This typically involves:

• Creams and Lotions: These are essential for most dry skin cases. Ingredients such as urea and dimethicone help soothe, hydrate, and lock in moisture.
• Diet: Certain foods and drinks can pull water from your body and cause dehydration. Avoid food and drinks that contain alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and salt.
• Medication: For severe dryness with itching or cracking, a doctor might prescribe topical steroids to reduce inflammation. In extreme cases, oral or injectable medication may be necessary.

How to prevent dry skin

To help prevent dry skin at home, you can:

• Use a gentle cleanser: Opt for a mild, fragrance-free, moisturising non-soap cleanser.
• Take shorter, cooler showers: Avoid long, hot showers or baths, and use warm water instead.
• Manage stress: Stress can worsen skin conditions like eczema, which can lead to dry skin.
• Limit sun exposure: Too much sun can dehydrate your skin.
• Moisturise immediately after bathing: Apply moisturiser while your skin is still damp to lock in moisture.
• Pat skin dry: Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can dry out your skin and contribute to premature aging.
• Use a humidifier: Add moisture to the air in your home, especially during dry seasons.