Dry Skin Patches on Face

Dry skin, which is medically referred to as xerosis cutis, is one of the most common skin problems that affects people of all age groups. The characteristic signs of dry skin include the development of unsightly wrinkly patches of flaky skin on various parts of the body. However, it is the development of dry skin patches on the face that can be a real cause of concern. While severe dryness that amounts to change in the texture and appearance of the skin can be a cause of cosmetic concern, it can also make one susceptible to other skin conditions. For instance, one may be tempted to scratch over the affected skin due to the intense itching. This can aggravate the condition and may increase the risk of secondary infections such as localized folliculitis or cellulitis. There can be many causes for the occurrence of dry skin patches on face. The most common of these include lack of adequate hydration, over exposure to the sun, use of chemicals on the face, and side effects of particular medications. In case of women, hormonal changes during pregnancy could also act as the triggering factor. Certain medical conditions could also give rise to the development of flaky patches of skin on face.

Dry Skin Patches on Face: Causes

The skin, which is the largest organ of the body, acts as a protective covering for the internal organs of the body. However, the skin remains exposed to the irritants and the pathogens that are present in the environment. The harsh weather conditions emerges as one of the most common contributory factors for dry dull and dehydrated skin. Here are some of the common medical conditions and other external factors that may cause the facial skin to turn dry.

Atopic Dermatitis: The occurrence of dry skin on face can be caused by a condition known as atopic dermatitis. This condition is characterized by development of rashes. Besides the facial skin, the elbows, wrists, knees and ankles could also be affected by this inflammatory condition. People who suffer from atopic dermatitis may also have a high risk of developing asthma and allergies. This condition may run in families.

Overuse of Cosmetic Products: Chemicals in soaps and other skin care products can cause allergic reactions in addition to exacerbating dry skin patches. These cosmetic products can strip your skin of the natural oils it needs. Also, long hours in hot baths can also dry up the facial skin and lead to the development of rough patches on the facial skin. So, refrain from taking bath with hot water and never use products that may contain harsh chemicals and opt for milder products. Allergic contact dermatitis is another type of inflammatory skin condition that is caused by an allergic reaction to certain irritants. These may be triggered by chemicals in perfumes or skin lotions. So, choose these products with utmost care.

Psoriasis: Psoriasis is a chronic, non-contagious, autoimmune disease resulting in red scaly patches on the skin. The disease results in areas of inflammation and excessive skin production. As the skin rapidly accumulates at these infected sites, it takes on a silvery-white appearance. Factors such as stress, withdrawal of systemic corticosteroids, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can trigger the condition and result in dry skin patches on face and body.

Weather: It is a known fact that the skin tends to dry out during the winter months. The low levels of humidity caused by the heating systems during winter often contribute to the dryness of skin. Also, staying in cold, air-conditioned rooms for the greater part of the day can worsen the problem and cause white flaky patches on one's face. Prolonged exposure to sun can also damage the skin and rob it off its natural oils. So, take precautions if you are stepping outdoors.

Dehydration: There's a great need to fulfill the body's needs for nutrients. While it is necessary to have foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, it is also essential to drink adequate amounts of water. Failure to take in adequate amounts of water can dehydrate one's skin and result in dry flaky skin on face. Excessive consumption of caffeinated products such as coffee or tea can also result in dehydration thereby causing dry skin patches.

Aging: The term 'transepidermal water loss' refers to the amount of water or the natural oils that is lost through the epidermis (outermost layer of the skin) through the process of evaporation or diffusion. If the water loss is more than normal, the skin may turn dry and dull. The natural oils that keep the skin lubricated prevent an excessive loss of water through the epidermis. However, as we age, the production of the natural oils by the sebaceous glands decreases. As a result, the body is unable to hold water. This makes the elderly susceptible to dryness of skin. Besides dry skin, wrinkles, under-eye bags, dark circles and sagging skin are the skin problems that appear in old age due to the decrease in production of proteins called collagen and elastin.

Dry Skin Patches on Face: Treatment

Wondering how to deal with dry patches on face? Well, if an underlying medical condition is causing dry patchy skin, treating the underlying conditions by using the appropriate drugs would certainly help. Topical application of steroids is usually prescribed for treating inflammatory skin conditions. In case of skin allergies, antihistamines like diphenhydramine, chlor-trimeton, or loratadine (Claritin, Claritin RediTabs, Alavert) may be recommended. Using anti-itch creams containing camphor, menthol, pramoxine or diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may relieve you of dry skin. However, external causes of dry patches can be remedied using the following methods. Here are some dry skin care tips that can help you in getting rid of those ugly dry patches on your face.

Moisturize Your Face: Wash your face with cold water to help refresh your skin. Gently pat your skin dry. Follow this up with a thick, creamy moisturizing agent or face cream that helps to lock in as much moisture into the skin as possible. You can also use olive oil or sweet almond oil to moisturize and hydrate your skin. Warming these oils a little bit and gently massaging a small quantity on the face works very well in restricting dry patches on skin. This is one of the simple home remedies that can be used for treating patches of flaky, dull skin. Following a skin care regimen is an effective way for treating these patches, as opposed to the drugs and medications which may have side effects.

Choose Skin Care Products Carefully: As mentioned earlier, overuse of soaps, bathing gels or creams that contain harsh chemicals can strip the body of its natural oils. If you have a sensitive skin, it would be better to use mild products that contain natural ingredients. In addition to proper moisturizing and cleansing, you can also take vitamin E supplements. Vitamin E will enrich the skin with moisture from within and help in getting rid of rough patches or the dry spots. You can also consult a dermatologist to know more about the products that might work for you.

This was some information on the causes and treatment of dry patches of skin on face. While one can prevent dry skin patches on face by following a skin care regimen, if this skin condition persists, a visit to a dermatologist is advisable to combat the problem.