Dry skin on the forehead, cheeks and chin is a state, not a condition. It is often a symptom or the result of a larger problem --- environmental issues, skin care or diet, for example. Dr. Diane Berson, a dermatologist at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, says that dry facial skin has nothing to do with the lack of sebum, or oil produced by the skin. "Remember, dry skin is due to lack of water, not oil," Berson said. Telltale signs of dry skin include red and itchy patches, as well as flaking. Left untreated, this can can lead to bleeding due to chapping or cracking. See your doctor if skin issues persist or worsen.
Winter Weather
Outdoor air during the winter months is generally drier than spring, summer or autumn. Berson writes that the lack of humidity combined with low temperatures and harsh winds whipping against the face can cause "winter itch."
"The best thing you can do to relieve the itch is to moisturize your skin," Berson said. "Unfortunately, you can't do anything about the weather." New York-Presbyterian recommends protecting the face against the wind and cold, using humidifiers and using moisturizers.
Sun Damage
While summer air may contain more humidity, direct sunlight can sap the skin of its moisture. The Mayo Clinic explains that skin exposed to the sun can become dry and rough, especially in dry desert heat, when sunscreen is not used. In addition to applying sunscreen every two hours, the staff of the medical center recommends wearing a wide-brimmed hat to protect the forehead and face when out in the sun for prolonged periods, and avoiding the sun during its peak period --- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Care Regimen
Not all soap is created equal. Some soaps with fragrances and deodorants can deplete moisture levels in the skin, while cleansers can strip the face of sebum and moisture. The American Academy of Dermatologists advises people to seek mild, moisturizing soaps free of fragrances.
The AAD also encourages people to turn down the heat while bathing or washing their face. Hot water depletes oils and water in the skin faster than warm.
Medication
Numerous prescription medications list dry skin as a possible side effect. Cholesterol drugs, including brand-names Lipitor and Fibricor, and the steroid prednisone list skin dryness and itching as common side effects, according to Drugs Information Online. Ironically, most acne treatments result in facial dryness, including those from oral medication Accutane and topical application Retin-A.
Medical Condition
Dry facial skin can ultimately signal a greater medical problem. Dryness accompanied by scaling and extreme flaking can indicate eczema, while dry, skin with silver lesions is an indicator of psoriasis.
PDRHealth, the online version of the "Physicians' Desktop Reference," reports that extreme facial dryness may indicate hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, cancers including myeloma and Hodgkin's lymphoma, kidney disease, or sarcoidosis.
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