Dry Skin

August 7, 2024

To stay healthy and do its job, the skin needs water and naturally occurring oils to keep it soft, supple, and stretchy. Without moisture and oils, skin can dry out. Understanding the causes and effective treatments for dry skin is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing discomfort and irritation.

What is dry skin?

Dry skin happens when the skin loses moisture or can’t retain enough water. This problem can leave the skin rough, tight and sometimes painful. Understanding the causes of dry skin is essential to treating it effectively.

How do I Know if I Have Dry Skin?

To identify dry skin, you need to recognise a number of key symptoms:

A feeling of tightness in the skin, especially after showering or swimming.

Skin may feel rough or uneven to the touch.

Persistent itching may be a sign of dry skin.

Dry skin can become red and irritated.

Skin may flake or peel, especially in severe cases.

Extremely dry skin can crack, sometimes leading to bleeding.

How do I Know if I Have Dry Skin?

There are different types of dry skin, each with its own unique characteristics:

General dryness without noticeable discomfort.
Dryness, associated with sensitivity to products or environmental factors.
Extreme dryness resulting in cracking, bleeding or significant discomfort.
With age, skin naturally loses moisture and becomes drier.

Who Does Dry Skin Affect?

Dry skin can affect anyone, but certain groups are more susceptible:

Elderly individuals often experience dryness due to ageing skin producing less oil.
People in cold or dry climates may suffer from dry skin as environmental factors strip moisture.
Individuals with certain health conditions like eczema, diabetes, and hypothyroidism can develop dry skin.

How Does Dry Skin Affect My Body?

Dry skin primarily affects the skin’s appearance and comfort but can also lead to:

Infections: Cracked skin can allow bacteria to enter.
Chronic Itching: Persistent dryness can cause severe itching.

Worsening of Existing Skin Conditions: Dry skin can exacerbate conditions like eczema and psoriasis..

Causes of Dry Skin

Several factors can contribute to dry skin, including:

Environmental Factors

-Cold, dry weather, particularly during winter, can strip the skin of its natural oils.

-Low humidity levels in the air can cause the skin to lose moisture.

-Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage the skin’s barrier and lead to moisture loss.

Lifestyle Factors

-Frequent hot showers or baths can remove natural oils from the skin.

-Harsh soaps and cleaning agents can strip away natural oils.

-A lack of essential nutrients and hydration in your diet can affect your skin’s moisture levels.

Medical Conditions

-Chronic skin conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis can cause severe dryness and scaling.

-High blood sugar levels can lead to dry skin.

-Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect the skin’s moisture retention.

Dry Skin Around the Mouth

Dry skin around the mouth is a specific concern that can cause significant discomfort.

Causes of Dry Skin around the Mouth

Various factors can contribute to dry skin around the mouth, including:

Constantly licking your lips can strip away natural oils.
Exposure to cold, windy weather can dry out the skin around the mouth.
Toothpastes containing strong flavouring agents or whitening ingredients can irritate the skin.
Perioral dermatitis can cause dryness and discomfort around the mouth.

Remedies of dry skin

To effectively address and manage dry skin around the mouth, consider implementing these practical remedies:

Apply a rich, protective lip balm or ointment regularly.
Use mild, non-irritating cleansers around the mouth area.
Identify and avoid potential irritants.
If dryness persists or is accompanied by a rash, seek advice from an aesthetic doctor.

Why is My Skin So Dry Even When I Moisturise?

If your skin remains dry despite moisturising, it may be due to:

Using products that are not suited to your skin type.
Extremely dry or cold environments can override the effects of moisturisers.
Conditions like eczema or hypothyroidism may require more intensive treatments.

Treatment Options for Dry Skin

Over-the-Counter Products

-Moisturisers: Products containing urea, lactic acid, and shea butter can be effective.

-Ointments and Creams: Thicker formulations can provide a more intensive barrier.

Prescription Treatments

For more severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend:

-Topical Steroids: To reduce inflammation and itchiness.

-Prescription Emollients: Stronger moisturisers designed to repair the skin barrier.

Advanced Dry Skin Treatments: Dermal Fillers at Auralia

While traditional methods can provide relief, dermal fillers offer an innovative solution for combating the effects of dry skin.

How Dermal Fillers Work

Dermal fillers, usually made of hyaluronic acid, are injected under the skin to:

Restore Volume: Fillers add volume to areas that have thinned due to dryness and ageing.
Hydrate Skin: Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture.

Smooth Wrinkles: By filling in fine lines and wrinkles, dermal fillers create a smoother, more youthful appearance.