Different Types of Dry Skin Conditions Explained

Dry Skin Conditions

The Main Causes & How to Get Relief

The skin is a big organ – the largest of the body, in fact. Its highways and byways of pores, sebaceous glands and derma layers work hard daily, to make sure each and every one of us is confident and comfortable in the skin we're in. But the skin is also sensitive, and outside influences can interrupt its harmony, and cause it to become dry.

While dry skin can become a concern as you age - over time oil and sweat glands can dry up and skin elasticity decreases - dry skin can affect people of all ages. But what are the main causes of dry skin, and what can you do to help yours stay soft and supple? Let’s try and answer that here.

Causes of Dry Skin Conditions

Here are a few common causes of dry skin conditions:

Weather

Cold weather is one of the main causes of dry skin. When the temperature drops, moisture leaves the air, and without it, your skin may struggle to maintain its own moisture-saving abilities. The climate can then also be a contributor – in colder climates, your skin may feel significantly dryer than in warmer areas.

Soaps and Detergents

Some soaps are known to disrupt the skin barrier, stripping away the skin’s natural moisture thus leaving the skin feeling dry. Furthermore, some household detergents can cause dehydration of the skin, if protective wear isn't used.

Heat

Regular use of heaters, fireplaces and wood-burning stoves in winter, can decrease the moisture in the air by reducing the humidity in a room. This can contribute significantly to instances of dry skin.

Too Much Water

You might raise an eyebrow in the query for this one, but what we mean is spending too much time in water. This could be long, hot showers, or extended periods in swimming pools that contain harsh chemicals like chlorine. Both can be culprits when it comes to the causes of dry skin.

Symptoms of Dry Skin Conditions

What to Look Out For

These are the most common symptoms of dry skin, and they could show anywhere in the body, but are more common in the creases around the body, at extremities like the elbows, and of course, on the face:

• Flakes
• Scales
• Cracked skin
• Itchy skin

How to Add Moisture to Dry Skin Conditions

If you're bothered by very dry skin , there are a few measures you can try, ranging from managing stress, to minimise sun exposure, and even using humidifiers to add moisture to the air. However, perhaps one of the quickest and most soothing ways is to apply a good moisturiser to the afflicted areas – a moisturiser like any of those in Vaseline’s range of nourishing lotions, moisturising creams and petroleum jellies. At Vaseline, we help skin look and feel healthy.

Shop our full range of soothing skin care products so you can reach for amazing every day.

Expert Advice
The advice in this article does not constitute medical advice, it is solely available for information purposes. Learn more about skin type issues and dry skin tips to help treat any causes you may have.