What is Dry Skin?
It is a term used to define a skin type that produces less sebum than normal skin. The lack of sebum results in the skin not having the amount of lipids it needs to retain moisture and build a protective shield against external influences. Over time, this leads to an impaired barrier function.
Dry skin can also refer to a condition called XEROSIS, which occurs in various degrees of severity and diverse forms that are very similar in nature and can be difficult to distinguish. Research has shown that women are more prone to suffer from dry skin than men; however, all skin tends to get dryer as it ages.
Characteristics of dry skin
As dry skin has different degrees, various characteristics are associated with the different levels.
Mildly dry skin
A little bit drier than normal skin,
The skin feels tight, brittle and rough
The skin has a dull onlook.
Low skin elasticity.
Very Dry skin
Mild scaling or flakiness in patches can be seen on the skin
The skin has a rough and blotchy appearance
The skin may appear to be prematurely aged.
There is a feeling of tightness and itchiness.
The skin is more sensitive to irritation, redness and risk of infection.
Visible lines or cracks can be seen on the skin.
Extremely Dry skin
More commonly found in the hands, feet, elbows and knees.
The skin appears rough.
The skin looks chapped with a tendency to form rhagades (cracks)
Calluses and scaling can be seen on the skin.
There is frequent itchiness.
The skin has a dull complexion.
It is primarily found in the elderly and severely dehydrated hands.
Causes of Dry Skin
Dry skin can be caused by multiple factors such as
- Genetic Makeup: Some people can be genetically predisposed to having dry skin.
- Smoking: The nicotine and toxins from cigarette smoke aid in the decrease of blood flow, which results in a decreased metabolic rate within the skin. This results in the skin drying out easily and ageing prematurely.
- Changes in the season: a significant rise in dry skin cases is always observed during the winter and in the summer due to increased exposure of the skin to ultraviolet light.
- The lack of natural moisturising factors NMFs that help bind water in the skin.
- The lack of epidermal lipids such as ceramide, fatty acids and cholesterol which serves as a skin barrier.
- Harsh weather conditions include either hot, cold, or dry air.
- Skincare mistakes include frequent washing and long hot baths or showers, which remove the lipids that make up the skin barrier.
- Certain medications and medical treatments like radiation, dialysis, or chemotherapy have been shown to cause dry skin as a side effect.
- Exposure of the skin to detergents containing alcohol, dyes and perfumes.
- Direct contact with clothes made of wool can irritate the skin.
- Hormonal changes.
How to take care of dry skin
Cleanse: The number one way of treating dry skin is cleansing. There is a difference between cleansing the entire body and cleansing the face.
Cleansing dry body skin involves using effective yet gentle cleaners that do not wash away the skin’s lipids. The cleansers used should include natural moisturising factors like urea, which locks moisture into the skin.
Cleansing dry facial skin: The face should be cleansed mildly with a product suitable for dry skin. The use of unsuitable products can increase dryness, which can contribute to the premature development of fine lines and wrinkles.
When choosing a cleanser, avoid foaming cleansers and look for cream or lotion-based cleansers that don’t strip natural oils.
Moisturize: Apply moisturiser after showering while your skin is damp to lock in moisture. Use richer creams or ointments over lotions, especially in colder months.
Invest in a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home can help prevent your skin from drying out, especially in winter.
Wear Sunscreen: Sun exposure can worsen dry skin. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
Products: When selecting care products, choose ones that are free of alcohol, perfumes, and colourants, as these can cause skin irritation.
Stay Hydrated: This helps maintain a stable skin water content.
Clothes: Try to wear more clothes made out of cotton and silk as these materials do not irritate the skin.
How to prevent the skin from drying
Cleansing: Cleanse the skin with mild, fragrance-free, moisturising soap.
Avoid dry air: This can be done by spending less time outdoors during the summer and winter seasons and using a humidifier indoors when the heating system is in use.
Reduce bath time: Instead of taking long baths, switch to quick showers. This will limit the amount of time the skin is exposed to hot water. Bath time should be reduced to 5-10 minutes, and warm water should be used instead of hot water, as hot showers can dehydrate the skin.
Gloves: Wearing gloves when washing dishes will limit the exposure of the hands to hot water and strong detergents.
Apply moisturisers immediately after bathing: Always apply moisturising cream within minutes to trap moisture in the skin.
Use soft towels: Pat the skin dry gently with a towel so that some moisture remains.
Minimise the exposure of the skin to the sun.
Do not smoke.
Best Products for Dry Skin
Here are some product types and ingredients to look for:
- Cream or balm moisturisers-Look for products containing:
- Hyaluronic acid – attracts moisture to the skin
- Glycerin – a powerful humectant
- Ceramides – help repair the skin barrier
- Shea butter or cocoa butter – deeply nourishing
- Squalane – lightweight, non-comedogenic oil
- Colloidal oatmeal – soothes irritation and itching
Product categories to include in your routine:
- Creamy facial cleansers
- Hydrating toners (alcohol-free)
- Rich moisturisers or overnight masks
- Face oils (optional, depending on skin sensitivity)
- Lip balms and hand creams for localised dryness
Ingredients to Be Careful Of
Some ingredients may further irritate or dry out skin. Be cautious with:
- Alcohols (like SD alcohol and denatured alcohol) – can be drying
- Fragrances – synthetic or natural fragrances can be irritating
- Sulfates (e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate) – harsh foaming agents
- Retinoids – powerful but drying; if used, pair with lots of moisture and introduce slowly
- Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide – great for acne but drying; use with caution
Always patch-test new products, and if your skin reacts, discontinue use immediately.
If you experience persistent, painful dry skin accompanied by severe redness, flaking, or rashes, consult a dermatologist. Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may require prescription treatment.
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