When your skin does not retain enough moisture to stay healthy, it can begin to look and feel dry. Skin products, harsh weather and lifestyle factors are often to blame for dry skin. Most of the time, you can improve the look and feel of your skin by changing your skin care habits and replacing lost moisture.
Symptoms
Dry skin can cause your skin to itch, flake and crack, according to the National Institutes of Health. The symptoms may be most noticeable on your arms, legs and the sides of your abdomen. Dry skin often looks red, rough and dehydrated, according to the Mayo Clinic, and it may feel tight and uncomfortable.
Causes
Cold, dry winter weather can rob your skin of moisture and lead to dry skin. Indoor heating during the winter months can also reduce humidity and make dry skin symptoms worse.While bathing, showering and swimming temporarily hydrate the skin, these activities remove your skin’s natural oils and result in moisture loss, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. If you spend a lot of time in water, especially hot or chlorinated water, your skin may dry out. Harsh soaps and skin products may also dry your skin.
Treatment
Bathe or shower with lukewarm water only once a day, preferably for 15 minutes or less, recommends the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Avoid harsh soaps and laundry products, and try not to wear rough fabrics that irritate your skin. Clean and dry your skin gently so you do not remove all of your skin’s moisture, and use a thick moisturizer at least once a day after you shower or bathe to lock in moisture, recommends the National Institutes of Health. During the winter months, you can replace lost moisture in your home with a humidifier. Be sure to drink plenty of water year-round to keep your skin hydrated. Over-the-counter cortisone creams can be used to treat inflamed skin, according to the National Institutes of Health, and your doctor may prescribe a stronger product if your symptoms are severe.
Considerations
Dry skin is sometimes a symptom of another condition, such as psoriasis or a thyroid disorder. If your dry skin is severe and does not respond to home treatments, see your doctor to have underlying disorders ruled out or treated.
Warning
If you have severely dry skin that cracks and bleeds, bacteria could enter a wound and cause a potentially serious skin infection. Contact your doctor if your broken skin shows signs of infection, such as discharge, redness, swelling or tenderness.
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