Dry skin is a fairly common condition that affects people of all ages. It can be extremely uncomfortable, creating rough patches of skin that itch, crack or even bleed. While treatments do exist for dry skin, it's important to understand the causes of this condition so you can use the right creams and ointments.
Sunlight
Exposure to sunlight can dry out the skin. Since the sun radiates heat, this intense warmth can cause damage to the skin, breaking down collagen and ruining the skin's texture. Too much exposure to the sun (this includes frequent tanning and sun burns) causes the skin to dry out and appear flaky, patchy or rough.
Hot Water
Taking hot showers or baths can damage the skin, reducing its capacity to contain moisture. Instead of creating supple skin, long baths and showers with hot water can strip the skin of its softness and instead leave it looking and feeling dry and flaky.
Winter Weather
The winter months are the driest of the year, so it's no wonder that it's at this time your skin would be its driest as well. Of course, winter months are not the only time you may be subjected to dry weather. Summers in the desert bring virtually no humidity, leaving the skin zapped of its moisture.
Psoriasis
A skin condition called psoriasis may also cause your dry skin. Basically, dead skin cells do not slough off properly and instead build up on the skin's surface leaving behind dry, flaky scales. Corticosteroid creams and intense moisturizers are typically prescribed to treat this ailment.
Eczema
Eczema is another skin condition that cause dry flaky patches of skin. However, it can become inflamed and turn into weeping sores that crust over. If the eczema is not controlled properly, your skin can permanently thicken, resulting in dry, raised and even cracked areas of the skin.
Irritating Soaps
Sometimes, using a soap or detergent that is too harsh or contains ingredients you're allergic to can cause dry skin. If you think products you're using are damaging your skin, choose soaps that contain natural ingredients and don't have sodium lauryl sulfate or parabens in them.
