Dry skin is a problem that can range from temporary to severe and very bothersome. What are the causes of dry skin? And how can you deal with it? Here are the most important details and information about dry skin.
Skin can suffer from an abnormal state of persistent dryness, a condition that should not be taken lightly and must be addressed properly to avoid any health complications. Let's learn more about the problem of dry skin:
What is dry skin?
Severe and persistent dry skin is a skin problem that can arise with age or as a result of factors that, when combined, cause the skin to lose its usual moisture and the water and oils that maintain its hydration and elasticity.
Dry skin may occur as an independent medical condition, or it may be a symptom accompanying several diseases, especially diabetes.
Causes of Dry Skin
Doctors usually attribute dry skin to a decrease in the skin's natural oil production and an imbalance in the production of essential fluids within its cells. This can be triggered by several medical conditions, environmental factors, and daily habits. The most important of these are:
1. Daily Habits
These are some things that may contribute to dry skin from your daily habits and lifestyle:
Excessive cleansing and harsh exfoliation.
Over-heating showers and baths with very hot water.
Using central heating at home or work.
Living in areas with high humidity or cold, dry climates.
Rubbing your body vigorously with a towel after every bath.
Prolonged and continuous sun exposure.
Dehydration.
2. Certain Diseases
The following diseases may also increase the likelihood of developing severe dry skin:
Diabetes.
Contact dermatitis.
Down syndrome.
AIDS.
Thyroid problems and diseases.
Ichthyosis. Malnutrition.
Kidney and liver problems and diseases.
Lymphoma.
3. Certain Medications
Some medications can also cause dry skin, especially diuretics.
Symptoms of Dry Skin
There are several symptoms of severe dry skin, the most important of which are:
Dry and itchy skin, especially on the arms and feet.
Redness or a pinkish hue of the skin.
Mild cracks in the skin.
Hardness of the skin, especially after showering.
White flakes on the skin's surface.
Unusual skin sensitivity and irritation.
When should you consult a doctor?
You should consult a dermatologist immediately if any of the following symptoms appear:
The skin condition does not improve for several consecutive weeks.
The dry skin condition worsens over time, even with treatment.
Fluid is oozing from the skin.
Large areas of skin are cracking and peeling.
A ring-shaped rash appears. You may have a bacterial or fungal infection, or even eczema. Scratching your skin may have introduced bacteria or germs, and the area should be disinfected and treated immediately.
Treating Dry Skin
There are many options available for treating severe dry skin, especially dryness caused not by disease but by simple environmental factors and everyday routines.
Here are the most important treatments and guidelines for combating dry skin:
Bath or shower only once a day, and for no more than 15 minutes.
Gently pat your skin dry after bathing instead of rubbing it.
Avoid using perfumed soaps and use a medicated soap.
Use lukewarm water for washing and bathing.
Use oil-based or emollient moisturizers instead of water-based ones.
Use antibiotic creams, especially on any cracks in the skin that may appear with itching, dryness, or new growths.
Use humidifiers and vaporizers indoors, especially during winter. Use steroid or cortisone creams to relieve severe itching.
Avoid high heat.
Drink plenty of water.
Use coconut oil or a suitable essential oil.
Wear appropriate gloves when washing dishes.
Focus on wearing cotton clothing and avoid wool.
Use sunscreen regularly when going outdoors.