When dry skin is not a natural side effect of aging, it is usually a temporary, mild problem but one that can lead to discomfort and wrinkles, explains MayoClinic.com. Both kinds of dry skin are technically known as xerosis, while more serious forms are inherited skin disorders collectively called ichthyosis. If you are unable to clear up dry skin on your own, a competent dermatologist can analyze the situation and recommend more effective treatments.
Underlying Cause
An outermost section called the stratum corneum protects the various layers of your skin beneath the visible surface. The stratum corneum is made of oils called lipids mixed with dead skin cells. This protective layer traps water beneath the surface of your skin and also prevents water from escaping. All of the actions help to keep skin moist. Dry skin occurs when the stratum corneum no longer has sufficient water to perform as intended, which can cause lost moisture, shrinking and cracks.
Environment
The most frequent cause of dry skin in women is the environment, notes MayoClinic.com. Environmental factors that increase your chances of developing dry skin include dry climates, exposure to the sun and cold temperatures, especially during the winter. Sunlight is a type of heat that naturally dries out skin, as do the lower temperatures and lack of moisture in the air common in dry climates and winter. The sun also emits rays of ultraviolet radiation, which penetrate beneath the stratum corneum to cause damage beneath the surface of skin. Living or working in enclosed areas with air conditioning, central heating, fireplaces and space heaters set too high decreases the level of humidity in the environment and encourages dry skin as well.
Habits
Your personal habits can also cause dry skin. For instance, wearing tight clothing that create friction and rub against your skin, bathing too often, using excessively hot water while washing yourself and cleaning your skin with overly strong cleansers and soaps and all contribute to dryer skin. Regularly swimming in a pool with highly chlorinated water, whether cold or hot, is another cause of dry skin. As with environmental causes, avoiding behavior and habits that promote dryness can help to make your skin healthier and moister in the future.
Disorders
Some women develop dry skin due to health conditions that are beyond their control. Skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and thyroid disorders are well-known examples. Atopic dermatitis is a widespread form of the dry-skin condition called eczema, and it leads to sensitive skin that is drier than normal. Psoriasis produces scaly dry skin that feels rough, and thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism result when your thyroid gland produces an inadequate amount of thyroid hormones, leading to lower oil and sweat production and then dry skin. Treating such skin conditions requires the skills of a qualified dermatologist or health care practitioner.
Member Comments