Many people experience bouts of dry skin. For some it happens occasionally, and for others it occurs regularly. Either way, dry, itchy skin is annoying and potentially painful. Myriad causes can lead to dry patches of skin, but fortunately, most people can find relief at home.
Function
Skin is your body’s largest organ and it acts as a barrier, protecting you from bacteria and viruses. For maximum protection, your skin must remain intact and flexible so it doesn’t tear or crack during normal activities, reports the University of Wisconsin Health Services. The moisture in your skin and its natural oils maintain the strength of your skin. When your skin’s moisture or oils are stripped away, the skin can become damaged, putting you in danger of infection.
Time Frame
Although you can develop dry skin at any time of year, it happens most often during the winter, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Cold winter air generally contains less humidity than the weather associated with the other seasons. Additionally, heated air indoors, particularly that of a forced-air furnace, is also dry.
Considerations
Low humidity is not the only cause for dry skin. Bathing too frequently with harsh soaps or very hot water can dry out your skin, too. Swimming in pools or salt water and spending time in the summer sun when wet can also leech the moisture from your skin. If you only experience dry skin on your face, your facial cleanser or astringent may be to blame.
If your dry patches feel itchy and gets inflamed, red or cracked, you may have eczema. Princeton University Health Services describes eczema as “an overactive inflammatory response to irritating substances.” Outbreaks typically arise in the form of a rash on the face, neck or inside the elbows, knees or ankles. Detergents, soaps, dust mites, animal dander and saliva and juices from meats or fruits may trigger eczema outbreaks. While no cure exists, avoiding your personal triggers may help.
Prevention/Solution
When bathing, use warm water and mild, moisturizing soaps. Pat yourself dry after a shower instead of rubbing, which can irritate dry skin. Apply moisturizers or lotions immediately after bathing to trap in your skin’s moisture.
Use a humidifier in the winter to keep the air in your home moist. Alternatively, you can set a pan of water on top of the radiator and allow it to evaporate, suggests Columbia University Health Services.
Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet.
In the summer, wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher when out in the sun.
Warning
In most cases, taking steps to return moisture to your skin will allow you to find relief at home. However, if dry skin causes itching severe enough to wake you at night, there is an accompanying rash or your skin cracks and bleeds, talk to your doctor, as you may have a skin condition that requires prescription medication or lotion.
Member Comments