Dry skin is a very common skin problem and is often worse during the winter when environmental humidity is low (i.e., “winter itch”). It can occur at all ages and in people with or without other skin problems.
– What does dry skin look like?
The normally fine lines in the skin become more visible, the skin feels rough and appears dull and flaky. In more advanced cases, fish net-like cracks resembling the fine fracture lines of cracked porcelain can occur. Dry skin occurs most commonly on the arms and legs, but can also affect the trunk of the body.
– Problems associated with dry skin.
Dry skin very commonly produces itching, which can be severe and interfere with sleep and other daily activities. Repeated rubbing and scratching can produce areas of thickened, rough skin. Dry, thickened skin can crack, especially in areas subject to chronic trauma (e.g., hands and feet), causing painful cracks in the skin (fissures). Dry skin and scratching may result in a dermatitis when the skin becomes red (inflamed) in addition to dry and scaly. Round, scaly, itchy, red patches scattered over the legs, arms and trunk (nummular eczema) may also appear. The appearance of yellow crusts or pus in these areas indicates that a bacterial infection is developing. This would require specific antibiotic therapy from your dermatologist or family physician.
– What causes dry skin?
Dry skin results when there is not enough water in the skin for it to function properly. One way this can happen is when protective oils in the outer layers of the skin are lost and the water that is normally present in the skin is allowed to escape. Too much soapy water, exposure to harsh chemicals, the normal aging process and using skin care products with cheap ingredients are some of the causes of decreased amounts of protective skin oils. As the outer layers of the skin dries out it shrinks and, as it shrinks, small cracks can occur. This exposes the underlying living cells to irritating substances and germs in the environment.
– Use skin moisturizers for long term control and prevention of dry skin.
Dry skin is usually a long-term problem that recurs often, especially in winter. When you notice your skin beginning to get dry intensify your moisturizing routine and start hydrating your skin with a mask for dry skin. Avoid the use of harsh soaps. Preventing your skin from getting dry during winter will also keep you healthier.
Prevent dry and cracking hands in colder by reducing the frequency of hand washing (which saps moisture from skin) and apply a Body Cream (like All Purpose Body Lotion or our newer Shea Butter crème). Use Noni Oil or Liquid Silk to seal in the moisture.
The areas around the eyes can become dryer too, so make sure they are receiving the optimal amount of moisture. Use an eye crème and eye gel to prevent your eye area from becoming dry and lined. Add Vitamin K or Essence Gel for extra protection and hydration