4 Surprising causes of dry skin: How to prevent it
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Summary: Dry skin isn’t always due to cold weather or skipping lotion. Sneaky triggers like long, hot showers, hard water, indoor heating, lack of hydration, and certain medications could be the cause. Identifying these unexpected factors and making small changes, like shorter showers and drinking more water, can keep your skin soft, nourished, and glowing.
Ever wondered why your skin feels rough and dry, even when you slather on moisturiser? You might blame the weather or your hectic lifestyle, but the real culprits might not be what you expect. From the way you shower to the water you drink (or don’t), dry skin often sneaks up, thanks to small missteps. Let’s dig into some surprising factors that could be irritating your skin and what you can do to keep it soft, smooth, and happy.
How do I know if I have dry skin?
If you have dry skin, you may notice the following symptoms:- Skin tightness
- Flakiness or peeling
- Rough
- Cracks or bleeding
- Itching
- Redness or irritation
- Dull appearance
- Lighter or darker than your normal skin tone
Also read: Red spots on skin: Causes & when to worry?
4 Surprising causes of dry skin
Dry skin is often blamed on cold weather or forgetting to use a moisturiser, but a range of unexpected factors could be impacting your skin without you even realising it. Understanding these hidden culprits is the first step to making your skin soft and hydrated.Environmental factors
Here are some key environmental factors that can contribute to dry skin:- Cold weather: Reduced humidity and cool weather draw moisture out of skin.
- Sun exposure: UV rays can weaken the skin’s protective layer, making it prone to dryness.
- Pollution: Pollutants in the air can damage the skin’s natural barrier and lead to dryness.
- Wind: Strong winds can aggravate and dehydrate bare skin.
- Indoor heating or air conditioning: These systems reduce indoor moisture levels, contributing to skin dryness.
- Hard water: Hard water with high mineral content can prevent moisturisers from absorbing and dry out skin.
- Hot showers: Long, hot showers can deplete the skin’s essential oils.
Lifestyle factors
Here are some common lifestyle factors that can lead to dry skin:- Poor diet: Insufficient intake of essential fats, vitamins, and antioxidants may leave skin dehydrated and dull.
- Inadequate water intake: Inadequate water intake may disrupt your skin’s moisture levels from within.
- Over washing: Washing your hands or face too frequently, especially with hot water, can cause skin dryness.
- Avoiding moisturisers: Failing to moisturise or using an inappropriate product for your skin may result in dehydration.
- Excessive use of harsh soaps or skincare products: Products with alcohol, fragrances, or potent chemicals can strip natural oils.
- Smoking: It damages collagen and drains the skin of essential nutrients, resulting in dehydration and premature wrinkles.
- Overconsumption of caffeine or alcohol: Both can lead to dehydration, resulting in dry and dull skin.
Medical and genetic factors
Medical and genetic factors that lead to dry skin include:- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A condition that leads to inflammation and dryness of the skin. The 12-month prevalence of eczema in Australia was 15.1% at age 18, while the current prevalence was 8.5% at an average age of 51 and 8.8% at an average age of 53.
- Psoriasis: A common immune-mediated skin condition that leads to flaky, dry patches. Psoriasis affects at least 2% of the Australian population.
- Diabetes: Impaired blood flow and dehydration caused by high glucose levels can lead to dry skin. More than 1.3 million (1 in 20) Australians were living with diabetes in 2021.
- Thyroid disorders: Hypothyroidism can also cause dry, dull skin. Around 14% of older Australians suffer from a clinically relevant thyroid disorder.
- Genetics: Some individuals are genetically inclined to dry skin, as it may be inherited from family members. For example, icthyosis vulgaris is a hereditary disorder characterised by chronic dry, scaly skin.
- Age: As you age, your skin generates less natural oil, making it more prone to dryness.
How do I stop my skin from being dry? Prevention methods
Dealing with dry skin can be uncomfortable and annoying, but by adopting the right measures, you can prevent it from becoming a frequent problem. The secret is in the daily practices that safeguard and moisturise your skin.- Moisturise consistently: Apply a high-quality moisturiser right after your shower to help retain moisture. Look for products containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides.
- Avoid hot showers: Hot water may deplete your skin of its natural oils. Prefer lukewarm water and limit shower time to 10–15 minutes.
- Select mild cleansers: Opt for fragrance-free, soap-free cleansers that won’t strip your skin of moisture. Strong soaps can exacerbate dryness.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
- Shield your skin: Apply sunscreen daily and wear gloves in frigid weather. Harsh conditions can lead to dry and irritated skin.
- Utilise a humidifier: Introducing moisture into the air, particularly during colder months, can help prevent your skin from becoming parched.
Which vitamin deficiency causes dry skin?
Dry skin can be caused by deficiencies in several essential vitamins particularly vitamins A, C, D, E, niacin (B3), and zinc. These vitamins play vital roles in maintaining skin hydration, strengthening the skin’s barrier, and boosting collagen production. Deficiencies may cause dryness, flakiness, and irritation.What should I eat or drink with dry skin?
Limit excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine, salt, and sugar, as they can contribute to dehydration. Focus on a balanced diet that includes fatty fish, avocados, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, eggs, cucumbers, and other water-rich fruits. Coconut water, herbal teas, and fresh juices are also beneficial.Why is my skin so dry even when I moisturise?
If you continue to experience dry skin despite moisturising, it might be due to various underlying reasons. Sometimes, it’s not just about how frequently you apply moisturiser, but rather the type of product and the method of application.- Inappropriate moisturiser: Not every moisturiser is suitable for everyone. You may require a more intensive formula featuring ingredients like ceramides, urea, or hyaluronic acid to effectively hydrate and mend the skin barrier.
- Incorrect application: Moisturiser works best when applied to slightly damp skin, best immediately applied after bathing or washing, to help lock in moisture. Applying it on dry skin may not yield optimal results.
- Over washing or using harsh products: Frequent cleansing or harsh soaps can remove natural oils. Even with moisturising, if your skincare routine is too aggressive, your skin may remain dry.
- Environmental influences: Cold climates, dry indoor environments, and windy conditions can rapidly drain moisture. Utilising a humidifier and wearing protective clothing can help mitigate these impacts.
- Underlying skin issues: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis can lead to ongoing dryness that regular moisturisers won’t alleviate without specific treatments.
When to see a doctor?
If your dry skin continues despite regular moisturising or is accompanied by symptoms like redness, cracking, itching, or pain, it may be necessary to consult a doctor. These could indicate an underlying skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis that needs medical attention. Additionally, seek assistance if dry skin affects your daily activities or leads to infections. A healthcare provider or dermatologist can suggest appropriate treatments to restore your skin’s health.Risk factors
Several factors can increase your likelihood of experiencing dry skin, even with regular moisturising. Recognising these can aid you in taking better preventative measures.- Age: As you age, your skin generates less oil, making it more susceptible to dryness.
- Climate: Chilly, dry weather or living in regions with low humidity can drain moisture from your skin.
- Frequent exposure to hot showers and baths: Regularly taking hot showers can wash away natural oils from your skin.
- Harsh skincare products: Soaps, cleansers, and alcohol-based products can irritate and dry out your skin.
- Health issues: Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or diabetes can heighten the risk of dryness.
- Job-related exposure: Occupations that involve frequent hand washing or working in arid environments can lead to ongoing dry skin.
Also read: Regular skin checks for Aussies: A lifesaving habit
Complications
Neglected or severe cases of dry skin can lead to various issues that impact comfort and dermatological health. Ongoing dryness might result in fissures and open sores, heightening the risk of infections. Persistent itching can lead to scratching, which might cause inflammation, bleeding, or even scarring. In certain instances, dry skin can exacerbate eczema or provoke flare-ups. Over time, the skin may become hardened, uneven, or discoloured. Timely intervention can help avert these complications.
How is dry skin diagnosed?
Diagnosis of dry skin involves a comprehensive approach, including a physical examination and a detailed patient history to identify potential underlying causes and contributing factors. Typically, dry skin is identified through a physical examination conducted by a healthcare professional or dermatologist. They will evaluate the dryness's appearance, texture, and location. You might be questioned about your skincare habits, lifestyle, environmental factors, and any existing health issues. In certain situations, if a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis is suspected, further assessments such as skin cultures or allergy tests may be suggested.
How can telehealth help?
- Quick telehealth appointments: Speak to a doctor online via video or phone to discuss your symptoms and triggers.
- Online scripts in Australia: Get prescriptions for dry skin from online doctors.
- Online doctor referrals: Request online doctor referrals for dermatologists or other skin care experts.
Dry skin isn’t just about skipping moisturiser; it’s got some hidden partners in crime! Spotting these surprise triggers and tweaking a few everyday habits can keep your skin glowing and refreshed. Treat it well, and it’ll reward you with silky smoothness all year long.
Reference
- National Library of Medicine - reference link
- National Library of Medicine - reference link
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners - reference link
- Diabetes: Australian facts - reference link
- Australian Thyroid Foundation - reference link
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Disclaimer
This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not indicate that Hola Health provides all treatments or preventive measures mentioned. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000. Any medical topics discussed are intended to educate, not to imply availability through Hola Health.
Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
Email: support@hola.health
Call 000 for emergency or urgent medical help
Get affordable healthcare on your terms, with quick access to qualified, Australian-registered telehealth doctors & health practitioners, 24/7, 365 days a year. No more searching for ‘doctors near me‘ – Hola connects you instantly.
Call 000 for emergency or urgent medical help.
Address: 79 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
Email: support@hola.health
© Hola Health, a brand of Packapill Pvt Ltd