11 Reasons Your Skin Is So Dry
During the winter, skin is more susceptible to becoming dry, flaky, and itchy.
Its 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 skins natural barrier.
Try taking a shower with lukewarm water and keep bathing-time to ten minutes or less.
3. Disrupting the Skins 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 skins 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.
Dr. Eliot Battle
Dr. Eliot Battle, CEO of Cultura Dermatology, is a global leader in cosmetic dermatology and laser innovation. His Harvard research pioneered “color-blind” lasers, making treatments safe for all skin tones. A sought-after expert featured in TIME, Oprah, and The New York Times, he continues to advance inclusive, cutting-edge dermatological care.
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