11 Reasons Your Skin Is So Dry

During the winter, skin is more susceptible to becoming dry, flaky, and itchy.

It’s understandable that many patients believe that applying moisturizer more often and in larger amounts will cure their dry-skin symptoms.

However, moisturizer is only one small part of keeping skin hydrated and protected in the wintertime.

Dermatologists advise of the top 11 causes of dry skin and how to adjust your daily regimen and habits to boost hydration.

1. Over-Washing Your Skin

Cleansing your face and body too often can strip away essential oils that protect it.

Decreasing the frequency of washing and introducing an oil-based cleanser can help re-hydrate the skin.

2. Taking Showers That Are Too Long and Too Hot

While a hot shower may feel comforting on a cold day, it can break down the skin’s natural barrier.

Try taking a shower with lukewarm water and keep bathing-time to ten minutes or less.

3. Disrupting the Skin’s Ph With the Wrong Cleanser

The skin is naturally more acidic, and using a cleanser that is not pH-balanced to match this acidity can disrupt the skin’s outer layer.

Patients may want to switch out their current cleanser for a product that has surfactants that remove dirt and oil without penetrating the epidermis.

4. Exfoliating Too Often

Patients should exfoliate a maximum of two times a week in the winter.

Applying a facial oil on top of your daily moisturizer immediately after exfoliation can also help seal in hydration.

5.Using a Moisturizer That Is Too Thin

Winter weather causes water to evaporate more quickly from the skin.

A thicker moisturizer with ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids can improve dry and flaky skin.

6. Applying Moisturizer Incorrectly

Moisturizer should be used immediately after showering or washing your face when the skin is still damp.

Applying product in this sequence helps seal in moisture and prevents skin from becoming dehydrated.

7. Not Drinking Enough Water

Until it becomes a habit, consuming 64 ounces of water daily can be a low priority or an after-thought.

In addition, patients should try to incorporate foods like salmon that are rich in fatty acids to absorb and lock in moisture.

8. Taking Certain Medications

Certain topical acne creams and gels, retinols, and hypertension medications can cause dry skin.

Patients should talk to their doctor about managing this side effect.

9. Suffering From a Skin Condition Like Eczema or Psoriasis

In addition to eczema and psoriasis, thyroid disease and diabetes can make the skin more susceptible to dryness and irritation.

To avoid additional inflammation, try a sensitive skin moisturizer.

10. Having a Family History of Dry Skin

Sometimes, dry skin can be attributed to genetics.

11. Exposing Hands to the Elements Without Gloves

Hands and fingers are especially susceptible to becoming dry and cracked when exposed to cold air and wind.

Cracks can open the skin up to infection, so patients should always wear gloves and moisturize after washing their hands.

To learn more about building a skincare regimen to combat winter weather, please call Cultura Dermatology & Laser Center today to schedule an appointment.