Why Is My Skin So Dry?

If you are tired of the scaling, cracking, peeling and irritating, itching symptoms of dry skin, relief is within your reach. Most of the time, dry skin is caused by lifestyles and environmental conditions that can be altered. Although you may want to be evaluated by a dermatologist if you experience severe, chronic dryness, rest assured that most skin conditions are easily treated.

Common Causes

One major cause of dry skin is extreme temperatures with low humidity. To make matters worse, these temperatures often call for the use of air conditioners and air warming devices such as wood-burning stoves and central heating, which also cause skin dryness. Other culprits of dry skin are sun exposure, frequent hot baths or showers, harsh soaps and laundry detergents, and health conditions such as thyroid disorders and psoriasis. In addition, skin naturally becomes drier and thinner as you age, notes the American Academy of Dermatology 2.

Not a Pretty Sight

Dry Skin on the Outer Ear

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If your skin is dry, it may appear rough, shrunken, dehydrated and flaky or scaly. Sometimes dry skin can become so severe that it becomes red and produces deep fissures that may bleed. Dry skin may also be intensely itchy on a regular basis and feel particularly tight after it is exposed to water 1.

Prevention and Treatment

Taking preventive actions is the best way to reduce discomfort associated with dry skin. For example, taking short baths and showers with warm, rather than hot, water can help skin retain more of its natural moisture. Also, consider using a mild cleanser or a gentle bar soap made for sensitive skin. Additionally, gently patting the skin dry and then applying moisturizer while the skin is still damp can help trap moisture in the skin’s cells. To enhance moisture in your skin, use thick, alcohol-free lotions, creams and ointments, which are more effective than light, non-greasy lotions. Indirect measures of keeping skin more moisturized include drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier in a dry home.

When to See a Doctor

Causes of Red Bumps That Itch

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Consult a physician if your skin doesn’t improve despite attempts to keep it moisturized. Also seek assistance if your dry skin is red, peeling or scaling in large areas, or if it has open sores or infections. Moreover, you may need to receive additional treatments if your dry skin is caused by an underlying condition such as hypothyroidism.

Complications

Dry skin that isn’t properly tended to can lead to worse skin conditions. One such condition is atopic dermatitis, or eczema, which causes redness, inflammation and cracking. Another is folliculitis, which is an inflammation in the hair follicles. Potentially more dangerous is cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin’s tissues that could enter the blood vessels and lymphatic system.