Causes of Skin Dryness

Stay Young Bureau Jun 20, 2023

Environmental Factors

Dry and cold weather, low humidity, exposure to wind and sun, and excessive heat can all contribute to skin dryness. These conditions can strip our skin of its natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Ageing

As we age, our skin's capacity to retain moisture declines. Natural oils and hyaluronic acid production reduces, resulting in dry and less supple skin. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Harsh Soaps and Cleansers

Using soaps, cleansers, or body washes that contain harsh ingredients can disrupt our skin's natural pH balance and strip away its natural oils, leading to dryness. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Hot Showers and Baths

Frequent exposure to hot water can strip our skin of its natural oils and disrupt its moisture barrier, resulting in dryness. Prolonged time spent in hot showers or baths can worsen the issue. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Overwashing

Washing the skin excessively can remove its natural oils, leading to dryness. This is particularly true when using hot water or harsh cleansers. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Certain Medications

Some medications, such as diuretics, antihistamines, and acne treatments, can cause skin dryness as a side effect. These medications may reduce our skin's natural oil production or affect its moisture balance. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Skin Conditions

Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis can disrupt our skin's moisture barrier, leading to dryness, redness, and irritation. These conditions may result from genetic factors, allergies, or immune system dysfunction. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Dehydration

Inadequate water intake can affect our skin's hydration levels. When the body is dehydrated, it prioritises supplying water to essential organs over the skin, leading to dryness. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Indoor Heating and Air Conditioning

Heated indoor environments during the winter and air-conditioned spaces in the summer can cause the air to become dry. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can contribute to skin dryness. Credit: Stay Young Bureau

Overexposure to Harsh Chemicals

Contact with harsh chemicals like chlorine in swimming pools, cleaning agents, or certain beauty products can cause dryness. These chemicals can disrupt our skin's protective barrier and lead to moisture loss. Credit: Stay Young Bureau