• Dry skin is caused by exposure to harsh weather conditions, medical conditions, and certain products.
• Common symptoms of dry skin include flaking, itching, cracking, redness, scaling, and wrinkles.
• Avoid hot baths and showers, harsh products, and too much sun exposure to prevent dry skin.
• Reversing dry skin damage can be done by moisturizing, using natural-based products, staying hydrated, changing your diet, and limiting sun exposure.
Many people suffer from dry skin but don’t know what causes or how to reverse it. Dry skin can be caused by several factors, including exposure to harsh weather conditions, certain medical conditions, and even certain products used on the skin. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent and reverse dry skin. Here’s a look at what causes dry skin and how to prevent and reverse it.
Causes of Dry Skin
Dry skin is characterized by a lack of moisture, flaking, itching, and cracking. Several factors can contribute to dry skin, including:
Weather
Extreme temperatures and low humidity levels can pull moisture from the skin, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Also, harsh winds can strip away moisture and natural oils, making it even more vulnerable. This is because the wind removes natural moisturizers, like sebum.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can cause dry skin, including hypothyroidism and diabetes. Allergies or sensitivities to certain substances, such as laundry detergents and fabric softeners, can also contribute to dry skin.
Products
Harsh soaps, detergents, and other products can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and cracked. Over-the-counter treatments like acne creams or chemical peels can also cause dry skin.
Signs of Dry Skin
It could easily escape your attention when your skin becomes dry. Especially when you’re busy, you may not even notice the signs of dry skin. Common symptoms to look for include:
- Flaky, scaly patches on the face and body
- Itchy, irritated areas
- Redness or scaling around the eyes, nose, and mouth
- Fine lines and wrinkles
In severe cases, dry skin may cause pain or even infection. This is because the cracks in dry skin can allow bacteria and other contaminants to enter your body.
What to Avoid
Dry skin is easily preventable, and it can also be reversed. First, know what to avoid to prevent it from happening. All you need is a bit of dedication and patience. Here’s what you can do:
Avoid Hot Baths and Showers
Using hot water to wash your skin can rob it of its natural oils and moisture. This is because hot water opens the pores, allowing moisture to escape. Additionally, high temperatures can lead to inflammation and redness.
Avoid Harsh Products
Harsh soaps, detergents, and other products can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and cracked. These products contain irritants and allergens that can worsen the condition, such as fragrances, alcohol, and dyes.
Avoid Too Much Exposure to Sun
Natural light from the sun has a lot of benefits, but too much exposure can damage your skin. This is because the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin and can cause it to become dry and cracked.
Reversing the Damage
Thankfully, it is totally possible to reverse the damage of dry skin. Here are a few tips on how to keep your skin hydrated and healthy:
Moisturize Regularly
This is the most important step to preventing and reversing dry skin. Use a moisturizer designed specifically for your skin type to help lock in moisture and protect your skin from environmental damage. If you have dry, oily skin, use a moisturizer with added hyaluronic acid to help balance the skin.
Use Natural-Based Products
Using products made from natural ingredients is a great way to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for products that contain hydrating oils, such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and coconut oil. For your face, opt for an aloe vera facial wash. Aloe vera has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe dry skin. It also helps restore the skin’s natural barrier and locks in moisture.
Stay Hydrated and Change Your Diet
Keeping your body hydrated is key to maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to replenish your skin cells with moisture. Additionally, eat foods that contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, mackerel, and walnuts, to help restore your skin’s natural oils.
Limit Exposure to Sun
Safeguard your skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays by investing in protective apparel and utilizing broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you step out into direct sunlight, and reapply every two hours. Use sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 since this will provide the most protection against UV rays.
Visit a Dermatologist
If your dry skin persists, it’s best to seek the advice of a dermatologist, who can assess and diagnose any underlying medical conditions contributing to the issue. Your dermatologist can also recommend medications or topical treatments that will help you get relief.
Dry skin doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture in your life. With the right knowledge and proactive steps, you can keep dry skin at bay and enjoy healthy, hydrated skin. Take these steps and remember to nourish your skin with proper care. You’ll be happy you did!
