Normally, the skin protects itself by preventing water from penetrating into the body. A layer of oil on the skin usually plays a role in this protection. In some cases, your skin may be dry from either an internal lack of water or an inability to maintain moisture. Dehydrated skin comes in a variety of types, which you should understand before seeking out treatment.
Indoor Environment
Skin can become dehydrated from the indoor environment you experience on a daily basis. Working in an office building or being in your home with air conditioning or heating can dry out your skin, since they zap the humidity from the air. A humidifier may help your skin retain some of its moisture, regardless of the indoor temperature.
Outdoor Environment
What your skin experiences outdoors can also dehydrate it. During the cold winter months, the air tends to be very dry, which can leave your skin dry, peeling and cracking. Exposure to a lot of wind or pollution can also remove moisture and leave your skin dry.
Water and Chemicals
What your skin comes into contact with can also leave your skin dehydrated. Taking very hot showers or baths can make your skin crack and lose the oils that keep it protected. Using soaps or body products that contain harsh chemicals can also pull the moisture from your skin. Coming into contact with cleaning products can dehydrate and damage your skin as well.
Skin Disorders
Certain skin disorders and problems can cause your skin to be dehydrated. For instance, psoriasis causes your skin to dry out; when this dried out skin builds up, it causes scales. Eczema can make the skin unable to retain moisture. Heavy lotions and creams are usually prescribed to battle these types of dehydrated skin.
