BySIZ Column
Causes of dry skin
and how to prevent it
When temperatures vary widely between morning and evening, colds are not the only unwelcome visitors.
Dry, sometimes itchy skin is another. Today we look at its causes and prevention.
Dry skin can occur when the skin lacks moisture, with tightness, flaking and itching.
The skin barrier may be particularly vulnerable in seasons with dry weather and frequent indoor heating, making moisturizing care especially useful.
1. What causes dry skin?
Dryness usually reflects several influences, including weather, daily habits and skin condition, rather than a single cause.
Cold, dry weather
Lower temperatures and humidity allow moisture to evaporate more readily from the skin, which can increase dryness.
Indoor heating and low humidity
Prolonged heating dries indoor air and can accelerate moisture loss from the skin.
Frequent bathing and hot water
Bathing too often or spending a long time in hot water can weaken the skin's protective lipid layer and worsen dryness.
Stress and changes in daily rhythm
Stress, lack of sleep and poor overall condition can affect skin barrier recovery, making dryness and itching feel more pronounced.
Dryness may be accompanied by itching
When skin becomes dry, itching often accompanies tightness and flaking.
Repeated scratching can cause cracks and irritation and may lead to dermatitis or dry eczema, so care is needed.
Dryness and itching can occur in many areas, including the folds of the arms and legs, backs of the hands, flanks, hips and waist.
Mild dryness may improve with sufficient moisturizer or oil, but severe or persistent itching and cracking should be assessed at a clinic.
2. Preventing dry skin
Daily care matters. Reduce habits that remove moisture and replenish hydration with adequate moisturizing care.
Moisturize immediately after bathing
Apply plenty of moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp after showering or bathing. It can form a protective layer to help retain moisture.
Take short, lukewarm showers
Use lukewarm rather than very hot water and keep showers brief.
Use a gentle cleanser
Choose a mild, low-irritation cleanser rather than harsh soap or body wash, and avoid vigorous scrubbing.
Care for indoor humidity and daily habits
Keep indoor air from becoming excessively dry. Adequate fluid intake and a regular daily routine also help maintain skin condition.
Keep up your moisturizing routine
Neglecting care can allow dryness and itching to recur and increase discomfort.
Start reviewing your showering and moisturizing habits to replenish skin moisture and help retain it.
BySIZ Column
Causes of dry skin
and how to prevent it
When temperatures vary widely between morning and evening, colds are not the only unwelcome visitors.
Dry, sometimes itchy skin is another. Today we look at its causes and prevention.
Dry skin can occur when the skin lacks moisture, with tightness, flaking and itching.
The skin barrier may be particularly vulnerable in seasons with dry weather and frequent indoor heating, making moisturizing care especially useful.
1. What causes dry skin?
Dryness usually reflects several influences, including weather, daily habits and skin condition, rather than a single cause.
Cold, dry weather
Lower temperatures and humidity allow moisture to evaporate more readily from the skin, which can increase dryness.
Indoor heating and low humidity
Prolonged heating dries indoor air and can accelerate moisture loss from the skin.
Frequent bathing and hot water
Bathing too often or spending a long time in hot water can weaken the skin's protective lipid layer and worsen dryness.
Stress and changes in daily rhythm
Stress, lack of sleep and poor overall condition can affect skin barrier recovery, making dryness and itching feel more pronounced.
Dryness may be accompanied by itching
When skin becomes dry, itching often accompanies tightness and flaking.
Repeated scratching can cause cracks and irritation and may lead to dermatitis or dry eczema, so care is needed.
Dryness and itching can occur in many areas, including the folds of the arms and legs, backs of the hands, flanks, hips and waist.
Mild dryness may improve with sufficient moisturizer or oil, but severe or persistent itching and cracking should be assessed at a clinic.
2. Preventing dry skin
Daily care matters. Reduce habits that remove moisture and replenish hydration with adequate moisturizing care.
Moisturize immediately after bathing
Apply plenty of moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp after showering or bathing. It can form a protective layer to help retain moisture.
Take short, lukewarm showers
Use lukewarm rather than very hot water and keep showers brief.
Use a gentle cleanser
Choose a mild, low-irritation cleanser rather than harsh soap or body wash, and avoid vigorous scrubbing.
Care for indoor humidity and daily habits
Keep indoor air from becoming excessively dry. Adequate fluid intake and a regular daily routine also help maintain skin condition.
Keep up your moisturizing routine
Neglecting care can allow dryness and itching to recur and increase discomfort.
Start reviewing your showering and moisturizing habits to replenish skin moisture and help retain it.